Work visas/permits may be issued (for the period requested) to entertainers, performing artists and associated support personnel who intend to engage in any form of private or public performance in New Zealand for remuneration.

Visa/immigration officers must be satisfied that:
• the applicant is of international distinction or merit, or of particular ethnic significance, or is manifestly essential to the presentation; and
• the applicant's employment will not jeopardise the employment of New Zealand entertainers or professionals in equivalent work unless the wider benefits to be obtained from the applicant's employment outweigh the loss of job opportunities for New Zealanders;
• there is adequate evidence that appropriate consideration has been given to the employment of available New Zealand entertainers or professionals.

As well as the above, the applicant's full name, nationality, and date and place of birth must be supplied before an application for a work/visa permit can be processed, and there must be a guarantee of accommodation and repatriation.

The producer or organiser should apply to the New Zealand Immigration Service (NZIS) as far in advance as possible. They must also supply the above information to the relevant New Zealand performers' union or professional association and obtain their agreement. If agreement cannot be obtained from the relevant union or professional association, the NZIS will consult with the parties to resolve the disagreement. If the parties cannot reach agreement, the application will be referred to the Minister of Immigration.

To apply or obtain the full criteria contact the NZIS or the relevant union or professional association. The New Zealand Immigration website contains the policy criteria, contact details where applications can be made, and the required fees. In addition all applications forms and leaflets can be downloaded.