Diplomatic and Official Visa (Domestic Staff category)
This visa is for domestic workers employed by diplomats, consular or official staff posted to New Zealand.
- Purpose: For domestic staff working in New Zealand households of diplomats or officials.
- Eligibility: Must be 18+, in good health, of good character, and engaged only in domestic work.
- Required Documents: Passport, police & medical certificates, employer’s undertaking & MFAT approval.
- Conditions: Restricted to domestic tasks, no study/other work, no dependents included.
- Duration: Valid for the same period as employer’s diplomatic/official posting.
Detailed Information
Purpose
For domestic workers employed by diplomats, consular or official staff posted to New Zealand.
Eligibility
- Aged 18 or older.
- In good health and of good character.
- Must be engaged only in domestic work (e.g., cook, nanny, driver, gardener).
- Employer must provide:
- A completed Statement of Undertaking,
- A signed Declaration of Acceptance,
- Approval from New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
Required Documents
- Valid passport (with at least 3 months validity beyond intended stay).
- Police certificate (issued within the last 6 months).
- Medical certificate or chest X-ray (if requested).
- Employer’s Statement of Undertaking and Declaration of Acceptance.
- MFAT approval documentation.
Conditions & Work Rights
- Work restricted to domestic tasks for the sponsoring employer only, at the specified location.
- No study or other work allowed.
- Cannot include partner or dependent children in the visa.
Duration & Processing
- Valid for the same duration as the employer’s diplomatic or official posting.
- Processing time: Around 6 weeks.