Security Guard Jobs in New Zealand with Visa Sponsorship for Foreigners in 2025

Are you looking to start a career in security in New Zealand? With a growing demand for security guards in various sectors, such as retail, events, and corporate settings, foreign workers have opportunities to secure jobs with visa sponsorship. 

This guide explores how to find and land a security guard job in New Zealand, highlights top employers offering visa sponsorship, and provides application links to get you started.

Eligibility Criteria and Requirements for Security Guard Jobs in New Zealand with Visa Sponsorship

To be eligible for security guard jobs in New Zealand with visa sponsorship, foreign workers must meet the following criteria:

• Relevant Qualifications: Applicants are required to have a valid New Zealand Certificate in Security (Level 2) or equivalent certification. This demonstrates proficiency in basic security practices and knowledge of the New Zealand security industry​.
• Work Visa Requirements: To apply for a work visa, applicants must receive a formal job offer from a New Zealand employer. The employer must be willing to sponsor the applicant through the visa application process. 
• Security Guard License: It is mandatory to obtain a New Zealand security license from the New Zealand Security Intelligence Service (NZSIS) or another authorized agency. This ensures the individual is qualified to work in security roles.
• Good Health and Character: Applicants must meet health and character requirements. This includes passing a health check to confirm physical fitness for the role, as well as background checks to ensure a clean criminal record​.
• English Proficiency: Strong communication skills in English are necessary for most security guard positions, as you will be required to report incidents, interact with the public, and work with other security staff. Non-native English speakers may need to prove their proficiency through English language tests such as IELTS or TOEFL​.
• Relevant Work Experience: While some entry-level positions may not require extensive experience, having a background in security, law enforcement, or related fields will greatly enhance your chances of securing a role.

How to Find and Apply for Security Guard Jobs in New Zealand with Visa Sponsorship as a Foreigner

Here is a step-by-step guide with details to get a security guard job in New Zealand with visa sponsorship as a non-citizen:

Step 1: Understand the Job Requirements

Before beginning your search, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with New Zealand’s specific qualifications and requirements for security guards. This includes holding a New Zealand Certificate in Security (Level 2) or an equivalent qualification.

Additionally, you will need a security guard license, which must be obtained from the New Zealand Security Intelligence Service (NZSIS) or another recognized licensing body. 

You need to meet the health and character standards set by New Zealand immigration. English proficiency is a must for communication, especially in security roles where clear reporting and public interaction are required​.

Step 2: Research Visa Options

The Essential Skills Work Visa is the most common visa used for security guards coming to New Zealand. This visa allows skilled foreign workers to take on roles where local workers are unavailable. 

To qualify for this visa, you must have a job offer from a New Zealand employer, who must show that they have been unable to find a suitable local candidate. 

Other visa options may exist based on your specific qualifications and the employer’s needs, so it’s important to explore all available avenues​.

Step 3: Search for Job Listings

There are multiple online platforms to explore job opportunities, including Seek, Indeed, TradeMe Jobs, and Security Jobs NZ. 

These platforms allow you to filter for jobs that offer visa sponsorship. It’s useful to read job descriptions carefully to confirm the sponsorship option and ensure that the employer is open to hiring foreign workers. 

Additionally, many security companies in New Zealand will advertise open positions directly on their websites or on recruitment agency pages​.

Step 4: Prepare Your Application Documents

Ensure that your CV is tailored to the security industry. Highlight any security-related qualifications or experiences, such as working in law enforcement, security operations, or customer service roles that involved protective measures. 

Attach a valid copy of your security guard license, references from previous employers (if applicable), and proof of your qualifications. 

For the cover letter, be sure to explain your motivation for moving to New Zealand, your understanding of the job requirements, and how your experience aligns with the company’s needs.

Step 5: Apply for Jobs

Once your CV and cover letter are ready, apply directly through job portals or via the company’s website. Many companies in New Zealand will provide instructions on how to apply via email, online forms, or by uploading your application. 

Always follow the specified process and ensure your application is tailored to each job description. Apply for multiple roles to increase your chances of securing an offer​.

Step 6: Attend Interviews and Follow Up

After applying, some employers will contact you for an interview. Be prepared to demonstrate your knowledge of security protocols, your experience in handling security situations, and your ability to integrate into New Zealand’s work environment. 

Many employers will inquire about your motivation for moving to New Zealand. If you don’t hear back after an interview, don’t hesitate to follow up with a polite email expressing gratitude for the opportunity and your continued interest in the position​.

Step 7: Work with Your Employer to Secure a Visa

Once you secure a job offer, your employer will initiate the visa application process on your behalf. Be prepared to submit the necessary documents, such as your job offer letter, proof of qualifications, and a health and police check. 

Your employer will need to demonstrate that they have been unable to find a suitable New Zealand candidate for the job.

After receiving the Essential Skills Work Visa, you can legally begin your role as a security guard in New Zealand. Make sure to adhere to all visa conditions and timelines for a smooth transition​.

Top Companies Offering Security Guard Jobs In New Zealand With Visa Sponsorship

Here are more details about companies offering security guard jobs in New Zealand with visa sponsorship for foreign workers:

Chubb Security

Chubb is a leading provider of electronic security systems, including alarm monitoring and security patrols. The company supports the hiring of international security staff and offers visa sponsorship for foreign nationals with relevant qualifications. 

Applicants need to hold a valid New Zealand security license and meet the character and health requirements for visa applications. 

To explore current job openings, visit Chubb Security’s career section.

First Security

First Security is a prominent provider of security services across New Zealand, offering solutions such as guarding, monitoring, and mobile patrols. They regularly hire foreign security personnel and provide visa sponsorship. 

To be eligible for sponsorship, candidates must have the necessary skills, including a valid security license in New Zealand. 

Interested applicants can view available roles and apply through their Work With Us page.

Allied Security

Allied Security is a major player in New Zealand’s security sector, providing a wide range of services from on-site guards to mobile patrols for industries like retail, construction, and healthcare. 

The company sponsors skilled foreign workers and requires applicants to have a New Zealand security license. 

For more information on their openings and to apply, visit their careers page.

G4S New Zealand

G4S is a global security company with operations in New Zealand, offering security services like cash management, monitoring, and manned guarding. 

The company actively recruits skilled foreign workers and provides visa sponsorship for eligible candidates who hold a New Zealand security license. 

G4S regularly posts job openings on its career site.

Aotea Security

Aotea Security provides essential security services to a wide range of clients, including large corporations and government organizations. They sponsor foreign security guards and require applicants to have a valid New Zealand security license. 

Aotea Security values experience in customer-facing roles and offers career development opportunities. 

Visit their careers page for more information on current openings and how to apply.

Armourguard Security 

Armourguard Security is a prominent security services provider in New Zealand, offering everything from armored transport to static guarding and mobile patrols. They actively recruit skilled foreign security personnel and provide visa sponsorship. 

Armourguard requires applicants to hold a New Zealand security license and have experience in a similar security environment. 

Visit their careers page to find out more and apply.

The Average Salary for Security Guard Jobs in New Zealand with Visa Sponsorship

Here’s an overview of the average salary for security guard jobs in New Zealand:

National Average

In New Zealand, the average hourly rate for security guard positions ranges from NZD 20.21 to NZD 23, depending on factors such as location and experience. Annually, the salary falls between NZD 38,000 and NZD 48,000 for full-time roles​.

Regional Salary Differences

• Auckland: Security guards in Auckland typically earn between NZD 45,000 and NZD 55,000 annually due to the higher cost of living and the increased demand for security services in the city​.
• Wellington: In the capital, salaries for experienced security guards are around NZD 42,000 to NZD 52,000 per year​.
• Christchurch: Security roles in Christchurch offer salaries in the range of NZD 40,000 to NZD 48,000 annually​.

Employment Types and Experience Levels

• Full-time: Full-time security guards generally earn between NZD 40,000 and NZD 48,000 annually, with benefits like paid leave and health insurance in some companies​.
• Part-time / Casual: Part-time or casual workers earn NZD 20 to NZD 22 per hour, but their total earnings can fluctuate based on the number of hours worked. These roles may not come with the same benefits as full-time positions​.

Specialised Roles and Overtime Pay

• Specialised Roles: Security positions that require specialized training (such as airport security, armed guards, or emergency response) offer higher salaries, with annual wages reaching up to NZD 55,000 or more​.
• Overtime: Many security guards have the opportunity to earn overtime pay. Overtime work typically attracts an additional 20–30% premium on the base hourly rate, resulting in NZD 25 to NZD 30 per hour​.

Benefits of Security Guard Jobs In New Zealand With Visa Sponsorship

Here are the key benefits:

Attractive Salary and Job Stability

Security guard jobs in New Zealand offer competitive salaries, ranging from NZD 20 to NZD 23 per hour for entry-level roles, with the potential to earn more through overtime or specialized duties. 

Full-time positions typically offer annual salaries between NZD 40,000 and NZD 50,000, depending on location and experience​. This stability can be particularly beneficial for those seeking long-term career growth in New Zealand.

Visa Sponsorship Opportunities

New Zealand has a strong demand for security professionals, particularly in cities like Auckland and Wellington. 

Many companies offer visa sponsorship for foreign workers, allowing you to work legally in the country while gaining international experience​. This opportunity is ideal for foreigners who meet the qualifications and are interested in building a career in the security industry.

Career Advancement and Training

New Zealand offers excellent opportunities for career growth within the security industry. With training programs available in areas like emergency response, surveillance systems, and licensed security roles, employees can continually improve their skills and qualify for higher-paying roles​. 

Additionally, experienced security professionals can move into supervisory or managerial roles, further increasing earning potential and job satisfaction.

Diverse Work Environment

Security guard positions in New Zealand provide the chance to work across various industries, including retail, construction, healthcare, and corporate offices. This variety ensures that workers can gain experience in different environments and specialize in areas of interest. 

From guarding private properties to working in high-security environments, there’s a broad range of roles to choose from​.

Work-Life Balance

In addition to competitive pay, security guard roles often come with flexible work schedules. While some positions may require night shifts or weekend work, many offer consistent hours and the potential for part-time roles. 

This flexibility can contribute to a healthy work-life balance, particularly for individuals with family commitments​.

Access to Health and Safety Benefits

Most security jobs in New Zealand offer health and safety benefits, including insurance, paid sick leave, and work safety training. This ensures that security professionals can work with confidence, knowing that their well-being is supported. 

As a visa-sponsored worker, you will also be entitled to the same workplace protections and benefits as local employees​.

Cultural Exchange and International Experience

Working as a security guard in New Zealand offers the unique opportunity to live and work in a diverse and welcoming country. 

It’s an excellent way for foreigners to immerse themselves in New Zealand’s culture, meet people from around the world, and gain international work experience that can be valuable in future job searches.

Pathway to Permanent Residency

For those wishing to make New Zealand their permanent home, working as a security guard may offer a pathway to permanent residency. 

After gaining sufficient work experience in New Zealand, visa holders may be eligible to apply for residency through various immigration programs​.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the requirements for security guard jobs in New Zealand?

To work as a security guard in New Zealand, you must hold a valid New Zealand security license issued by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA). Depending on the role, you may also need specialized training in areas like surveillance, emergency response, or crowd control. Employers may require prior experience in the field​.

Is experience mandatory for security guard jobs in New Zealand?

While experience can be beneficial, it is not always mandatory for entry-level security guard roles. Some employers provide on-the-job training, particularly for those with the necessary qualifications. However, prior experience in similar roles can enhance your chances of securing higher-paying positions​.

Can I get a visa to New Zealand as a security guard?

Yes, it is possible to get a visa to New Zealand as a security guard. If you meet the job requirements and find a sponsoring employer, you can apply for a work visa. Security guard positions fall under essential skills, so employers can sponsor workers from overseas if there is a shortage of qualified candidates in New Zealand​.

What is the age limit for security guards in New Zealand?

There is no specific age limit to become a security guard in New Zealand. However, applicants must be at least 18 years old to hold a security license and meet the physical and mental requirements of the role​.

Can security guards apply for permanent residency in New Zealand?

Yes, security guards can apply for permanent residency in New Zealand after gaining sufficient work experience. Those working in roles that fall under the Essential Skills Work Visa may have a pathway to residency through the Skilled Migrant Category, depending on their work history and qualifications​.