Change visa typeResident visa

Your first 90 days checklist

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  1. Apply for an IRD number

    Your tax number — needed to get paid correctly and open some accounts.

    Free~15 min online, number arrives in 10–20 working daysIRD — new arrival IRD number application ↗

  2. Open a NZ bank account

    Where your salary, rent, and everyday spending will actually flow through.

    Free to openSame day–1 week depending on bankWestpac NZ — open an account from overseas ↗

  3. Check your public healthcare eligibility

    Whether you qualify for subsidised healthcare depends entirely on your visa.

    Free to check5 min readImmigration NZ — who can get public health care ↗

  4. Enrol with a GP (general practice)

    Get set up with a local doctor before you actually need one.

    Free to enrol (consultations cost separately)20–30 minHealthpoint — find and enrol with a general practice ↗

  5. Give your employer a completed IR330 (tax code declaration)

    Stops your employer taxing you at the highest emergency rate.

    Free10 minIRD — complete my tax code declaration (IR330) ↗

  6. Check your KiwiSaver eligibility

    Find out if you can — or must — join KiwiSaver on your visa.

    Free to check10 minIRD — tax code declaration (covers KiwiSaver questions) ↗

  7. Lodge your rental bond

    Make sure your rental deposit is actually registered and protected.

    Up to 4 weeks' rent (refundable)Handled by landlord, 23 working daysTenancy Services — lodging a bond ↗

  8. Convert your overseas driver licence

    You can drive on your current licence for a while — but not forever.

    Varies — licence fee plus test fees if requiredBook ahead; test slots can take weeksWaka Kotahi NZTA — converting to a NZ driver licence ↗

  9. Set up mail redirection (optional)

    Keep your mail flowing while you settle on a permanent address.

    Paid service, cheaper booked online10 min to set upNZ Post — redirect my mail ↗