Immigration Officer - Christchurch

About the Role

Join Immigration New Zealand (INZ), the operational branch overseeing New Zealand's immigration system. Your key duties will involve granting visas to individuals who wish to work, study, visit, or settle in New Zealand, ensuring legal compliance for all people entering or residing in the country, and assisting migrants and refugees to establish their lives here. INZ collaborates with border agencies globally to maintain the safety of New Zealand.

The organisation is currently transforming its immigration system through the 'Our Future Services' programme, aiming to enhance efficiency, adaptability, customer experience, and sustainability through improved digital services.

Key Responsibilities

• Assess visa applications using applicable legislation and policy, ensuring decisions are well-informed and justified.
• Handle a substantial caseload efficiently without compromising quality.
• Utilise multiple computer systems to analyse detailed information and provide clear, written reasons for visa decisions.
• Establish strong working relationships both internally and with external immigration partners.

Candidate Profile

• Capable of managing high-volume workflow effectively.
• Proficient computer skills across various platforms and standard software tools.
• Excellent written communication skills, with strict attention to grammar and clarity in explaining rationale.
• Strong verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
• Detail-oriented with robust analytical abilities.
• Quick learner, adaptable to new information and changes.
• Resilient under pressure and receptive to feedback.
• Flexible and adaptable in a dynamic environment.
• Demonstrates high integrity and ethical conduct consistently.

Additional Information

This position requires a New Zealand citizenship or a Permanent Resident Visa. The Christchurch office is centrally situated, hosting two teams that manage diverse visa categories of varying complexity. The team values career growth and fosters an open, supportive work culture.

Initial induction and training are conducted in person for up to six months, after which flexible working arrangements may be negotiated depending on business needs.

About MBIE

The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) strives to build a resilient, high-performing economy benefiting all New Zealanders by enhancing productivity, international competitiveness, job accessibility, and affordable housing.

Our organizational values emphasize collaboration, courage, future-focus, and ownership, deeply influenced by our Maori identity and a commitment to the Treaty of Waitangi partnership, fostering meaningful engagement with iwi and Māori organizations for sustained economic and social progress.

Recruitment Process

• Ongoing application reviews during the advertising period.
• Online situational judgement test scheduled between 31 July and 2 August.
• Formal panel interviews and written assessments between 6 and 13 August.
• Expected start date: 28 September 2026.

Applications close at 11:59 pm on Sunday, 26 July 2026. Please submit a CV and cover letter outlining your suitability through the designated online application process.