NZ CVs for skilled migrants should be concise, lead with a professional summary, and include New Zealand qualification equivalencies in brackets. List overseas experience with brief context about company size/industry, emphasise English proficiency, and include referees contactable during NZ business hours where possible.
What format should skilled migrants use for NZ CVs?
Start with contact details, followed by a professional summary highlighting your key skills and experience. List employment history in reverse chronological order with company context for international employers. Include an education section with NZ equivalencies, and finish with referees willing to take calls during NZ business hours.
How should I present international qualifications?
Present overseas qualifications with New Zealand equivalencies in brackets where possible. For example: "Bachelor of Engineering (equivalent to NZ Level 7 Bachelor's degree)" or "Chartered Accountant - UK (working towards CAANZ membership)". Include any recognition assessments from NZQA or professional bodies. This helps employers immediately understand your qualification level.
What details should I include about overseas employers?
Provide context for international employers since Kiwi recruiters may not recognise overseas companies. Include brief descriptors like company size, industry sector, or market position. For example: "ABC Solutions (software consultancy, market leader in healthcare IT)" rather than just "ABC Solutions". This helps employers gauge the scale and relevance of your experience.
How do I demonstrate English proficiency on my CV?
Include specific evidence of English proficiency beyond stating "fluent English". Mention:
- IELTS, TOEFL or other test scores if recent
- Years of education delivered in English
- Client-facing roles requiring English communication
- Written work published in English
- Presentations given to English-speaking audiences
- International qualifications studied in English
- Previous roles in English-speaking countries
What referee information works best for migrants?
Include referees contactable during New Zealand business hours where possible. If using overseas referees, note their preferred contact times in NZ timezone. Consider including any New Zealand-based professional contacts, even from brief networking meetings or industry events. Professional referees are standard, with at least one being a former manager.
Frequently asked questions
Should I include my visa status on my CV?
Only include visa status if you have unrestricted work rights (residency, citizenship, or open work visa). Avoid mentioning employer-sponsored visas as this may limit opportunities.
How far back should I go with employment history?
Include relevant experience that demonstrates career progression and transferable skills to the NZ market.
Do I need to convert currencies or use NZ dollar figures?
Avoid including salary information on your CV entirely. Save salary discussions for interviews where you can provide proper context.
Should I mention cultural background or languages spoken?
Include additional languages as assets, especially if relevant to the role. Only mention cultural background if it adds professional value to the position.
How important are local referees versus international ones?
International referees from relevant roles are perfectly acceptable. The key is ensuring they're contactable and willing to speak positively about your work.
Get your CV professionally reviewed and tailored for the New Zealand market with the Newcomers Toolkit — designed specifically for skilled migrants navigating the Kiwi job market.