New Zealand Skilled Migrant Visa: Complete Guide

Key Takeaways:

• The New Zealand Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa allows you to work, study, and bring your family.
• Eligibility includes good health, character, English skills, age under 55, skilled job offer, and recognized qualifications.
• Required documents: identity proof, health and character evidence, skilled employment proof, language proficiency, and an invitation to apply.

Imagine starting a new life in a country known for its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and diverse opportunities. New Zealand, a land of breathtaking beauty, offers a special chance for skilled workers from around the world through the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa. This visa not only allows you to live and work in New Zealand but also opens the door to bringing your partner and dependent children along. It’s a unique gateway to a promising future in a thriving economy.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa. From eligibility requirements to the necessary documents you must provide, and how to prove your English proficiency, we’ve got it all covered. If you dream of leveraging your skills in a vibrant new environment and embarking on an exciting journey in New Zealand, keep reading – your adventure begins here.

What is the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa?

The Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa allows you to move to New Zealand to help strengthen the country’s economy. If you receive this visa, you can work and study in New Zealand. Additionally, you can include your partner and dependent children in your application.

Who Qualifies for the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa?

To be eligible for the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa, you must meet several criteria:

• Health: You need to be in good health.
• Character: You should have good character.
• English Proficiency: You must be able to speak English.
• Age: You should be 55 years of age or younger.
• Skilled Employment: Your current job or job offer must be skilled.
• Recognized Qualification: Your qualifications should be recognized to qualify for points.
• Invitation: You must receive an invitation to apply for residence.
• Family: Your partner and children must know English, if applicable.

What Counts as Skilled Work Experience?

“Skilled work experience is earlier employment that shows you have skills that are easily transferable to New Zealand’s labor market.”

Including Family Members

This visa category allows you to include your partner and dependent children in your residence application. Make sure they meet the English language requirements.

Next Steps

Interested in applying? For detailed information and to start your application, visit the official New Zealand immigration website: New Zealand Immigration.

Conclusion

By meeting these eligibility requirements, you can look forward to a new life in New Zealand, contributing to its vibrant economy and enjoying opportunities for work and study.

What Documents Do You Need for a Skilled Migrant Category Visa in New Zealand?

To apply for a Skilled Migrant visa in New Zealand, you’ll need to submit various documents. These include:

• Identity verification
• Proof of good character
• Evidence of good health
• Proof of English language proficiency
• Evidence of skilled employment
• Recognized qualifications
• Expression of interest (EOI)
• Evidence of relevant work experience
• An invitation to apply
• Proof that your partner and children can speak English

Note: All documents must be translated into English for the application process.

How Can You Prove Your English Proficiency?

To demonstrate English proficiency, you need to provide one of the following:

• An acceptable English language test result, no older than two years.
• Proof of citizenship from Canada, Ireland, the UK, USA, Australia, or New Zealand, along with evidence of work or study in one of these countries.
• Evidence of a recognized qualification equivalent to a New Zealand level 7 bachelor’s degree obtained in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Ireland, the UK, or the USA, with at least two years of study in one of these countries.
• Evidence of a recognized postgraduate qualification equivalent to a New Zealand qualification, obtained in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Ireland, the UK, or the USA, with at least one year of study in one of these countries.

What Qualifies as Evidence of Skilled Employment?

When invited by Immigration New Zealand to apply for residency, you must submit proof of skilled employment. This involves providing:

• Documentation that shows specialist, technical, or management expertise.
• Specific qualifications and/or work experience.
• Proof that you meet the minimum wage criteria.
• Occupational registration if required for your job.

For more detailed information on the Skilled Migrant Category, visit the official New Zealand Immigration website.

By following these guidelines and gathering the necessary documents, you can streamline your application process for a New Zealand Skilled Migrant visa.

What Qualifies as a Recognized Qualification?

To claim points for your application, ensure your qualification is recognized. Here’s how a qualification can be recognized:

• List of Qualifications Exempt from Assessment: Your qualification is listed.
• Washington Accord or Sydney Accord Accredited Degree: You hold an accredited undergraduate degree.
• NZQA Evaluation: Your qualification has been evaluated by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority.
• New Zealand Registration Authority: Your qualification is assessed at the same level as a qualification on the List of Qualifications Exempt from Assessment as part of an application for New Zealand occupational registration.

How to Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)?

You need to send an Expression of Interest to Immigration New Zealand. Ensure you have a minimum of 100 points under their point system.

What Counts as Skilled Work Experience?

To qualify for points, you must have skilled work experience. This experience can be:

• In the same job for which you claim points
• In a different job at skills level 1, 2, or 3 as per the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO).

Note: Providing evidence of work experience isn’t necessary with your EOI but will be needed when invited to apply.

What Happens After You Receive an Invitation to Apply?

Once Immigration New Zealand invites you to apply for residence, you have four months to submit your application. The invitation, sent via email or letter, will specify the required evidence, which may include:

• Employment contract
• Job description
• References, payslips, tax records, or contracts as proof of work experience
• Copies of course transcripts or qualifications
• Full or provisional occupational registration
• A report from the New Zealand Qualifications Authority confirming any qualification not on the list of recognized or exempt qualifications
• Proof of relationship to family members included in your application
• Evidence that any family member you have claimed points for is living in New Zealand

How to Prove English Language Capability of Your Partner and Children?

If you include your partner and children in your Expression of Interest, you must also submit evidence of:

• Your relationship to them
• Their identity, health, character, and English language proficiency meeting the visa requirements.

By following these guidelines, you can improve the clarity and structure of your application, making the process smoother and more efficient.

How Do You Apply Online for a New Zealand Skilled Migrant Visa?

1. Complete Your Online Expression of Interest

First, submit your Expression of Interest (EOI) through the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa platform. Use your RealMe account to log in or create a new one if necessary. Remember:

• Only provide accurate information in your application. False information can result in your application being rejected.

2. Pay the Expression of Interest Application Fee

To proceed, you need to pay an application fee of NZD $590. Accepted payment methods include:

• Visa
• MasterCard
• UnionPay credit or debit cards

3. Complete Your Online Residence Application

If Immigration New Zealand selects your EOI, you’ll receive an email invitation to apply for a Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa. The email includes a link to the online application. Here’s what you need to do:

• Provide all required information in the online form.

4. Have Your Sponsor Complete the Employer Form

Immigration New Zealand will send an Employer Supplementary Form (INZ 1235). Here’s how to handle it:

• Give the form to your potential employer for completion.
• Upload the completed form along with your other documents.

5. Provide Required Documents for Residence

To prove eligibility for the Skilled Migrant Category:

• Upload all necessary documents as PDFs in the specified sizes.

6. Submit the Online Application

Once everything is complete:

• Submit your application.
• You may be invited for an interview; Immigration New Zealand will notify you if needed.

7. Pay the Residence Application Fee

After submitting your application, pay a fee of NZD $4,890 via post with a credit or debit card. Note:

• Immigration New Zealand processes the payment upon receiving your application.
• Use the postal and courier addresses listed on the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa page for sending your payment.

Additional Tip: Check Your Points

Before submitting your EOI, check the points indicator to see how many points you can claim. You must have at least 100 points to enter the selection pool, though currently, only those with 180 points or more are being selected.

For more detailed information on the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa process, visit the official New Zealand Immigration website here.

How Do I Apply On Paper for a New Zealand Skilled Migrant Visa?

Step 1: Fill Out Your Expression of Interest (EOI)

• Complete the EOI Form: Use capital letters and write in English. Refer to the Skilled Migrant Category Expression of Interest Guide to check your points.
• Provide Accurate Information: False information could lead to your application being rejected.

Step 2: Include Your Children in the EOI

• Complete Child Supplement Forms: Fill out a separate Expression of Interest Form (Child Supplement) for each dependent child.

Step 3: Pay the EOI Application Fee

• Fee Payment: The fee is NZD $710, payable by post. Immigration New Zealand will process the payment upon receiving your application.

Step 4: Submit Your Expression of Interest

• Postal and Courier Submission: Send your completed EOI to the addresses indicated on the form.

What Happens After Submitting My EOI?

Step 5: Wait for the Selection

• Selection Notification: If selected, you’ll receive an email inviting you to apply for the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa.

How Do I Complete the Paper Residence Application?

Step 6: Fill Out the Application Form

• Online Invitation: You’ll get a link to complete your residence application online with the necessary information.

Step 7: Employer Form

• Employer Supplement Form: Immigration New Zealand will send an Employer Supplementary Form (INZ 1235). Provide this to your employer for completion and upload it with your other documents.

What Documents Are Required for Residence?

Step 8: Prepare Required Documents

• Supporting Documents: Ensure you have all necessary forms and documents ready to support your Skilled Migrant Resident Visa application.

How to Pay the Residence Application Fee

Step 9: Pay the Residence Fee

• Residence Application Fee: The fee is NZD $4,890, paid during the online application. Immigration New Zealand will process this upon receipt.

Where Do I Submit My Paper Residence Application?

Step 10: Submit Your Application

• Submission Addresses: Send your completed application to the postal and courier addresses provided on the visa form.
• Possible Interview: You might be invited for an interview; Immigration New Zealand will notify you if this is required.

Important Note

Before submitting your EOI, check the points indicator to see how many points you claim. Currently, only EOIs with 180 points or more are being selected by Immigration New Zealand.

For more detailed information and assistance, visit the official New Zealand Immigration website.

What Are the Fees for a Skilled Migrant Category Visa?

The fees to apply for an NZ Skilled Migrant Category Visa are as follows:

Online Application:

• Expression of Interest: NZD $590
• Residence Application: NZD $4,890

Paper Application:

• Expression of Interest: NZD $710
• Residence Application: NZD $4,890

You must pay the application fee for both the Expression of Interest and the Residence application to apply for an NZ Skilled Migrant Category Visa. The fees are non-refundable if your applications are rejected.

When Are Expressions of Interest for an NZ Skilled Migrant Visa Selected?

Immigration New Zealand selects expressions of interest on the third Wednesday of each month.

How Long Can I Stay on a Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa?

Once granted an NZ Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa, you can stay in New Zealand indefinitely.

What Are the Conditions of an NZ Skilled Migrant Visa?

Upon receiving an NZ Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa, you must adhere to the following conditions:

• Apply for entry permission when you enter New Zealand. Complete the arrival card provided during your flight and present it at the border.
• Keep your visa in a valid passport. If your passport expires, apply to transfer your visa to the new passport.
• Work if you have an offer of skilled employment in or outside Auckland.
• Enter and leave New Zealand freely until your travel conditions expire.

Can I Work in New Zealand on an NZ Skilled Migrant Resident Visa?

Yes, you can work in New Zealand while on a Skilled Migrant Resident Visa. Requirements vary based on whether your job is in or outside Auckland.

With a Job Offer in Auckland:

• Secure the job within three months of arriving in New Zealand.
• Stay employed in that job for at least three months.
• Maintain a pay rate at or above the level required for your skilled employment points for three months.

With a Job Offer Outside Auckland:

• Secure the job within three months of arriving in New Zealand.
• Remain employed in that job for at least one year.
• Maintain a pay rate at or above the level required for your skilled employment points for one year.

Already Employed in Auckland:

• Stay in your current job for at least three months.
• Maintain a pay rate at or above the level required for your skilled employment points for three months.

Already Employed Outside Auckland:

• Stay in your current job for at least one year.
• Maintain a pay rate at or above the level required for your skilled employment points for one year.

Can I Study in New Zealand on a Skilled Migrant Visa?

Yes, you can study in New Zealand while on a Skilled Migrant Visa.

Can I Include My Family on a Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa Application?

You can include your partner and dependent children in your residence application. Here’s what’s considered:

Partner:

• Legal marriage
• Civil union
• De facto relationship

Dependent Children:

• Aged 24 and under
• Not married
• Do not have children of their own
• Rely on you for financial support

For more detailed information, visit the official Immigration New Zealand website.

Here is a structured list of five official and helpful external resources pertaining to the New Zealand Skilled Migrant Visa, designed to support users in understanding and applying for this visa category:

1. Immigration New Zealand Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa Details

• URL: New Zealand Immigration – Skilled Migrant Category
• Description: This page provides comprehensive details about the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa, including eligibility criteria, application process, required documents, and steps for submission. It’s the primary resource for prospective applicants.

2. Expression of Interest Form and Guide (INZ 1100)

• URL: Expression of Interest Form and Guide
• Description: The Expression of Interest (EOI) form and accompanying guide explain how to complete and submit an EOI for the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa. It covers points allocation and the information needed to submit an EOI.

3. New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA)

• URL: New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA)
• Description: The NZQA evaluates and recognizes overseas qualifications, which is crucial for claiming points under the Skilled Migrant Category. Their website provides information on how to get qualifications assessed and recognized by New Zealand authorities.

4. Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO)

• URL: ANZSCO Classification
• Description: This classification system helps identify what constitutes skilled employment for the purposes of the Skilled Migrant Category visa. It lists out various occupations and details their skill levels and requirements.

5. New Zealand Immigration Health Requirements

• URL: New Zealand Immigration Health Requirements
• Description: This resource outlines the health criteria that applicants must meet to be eligible for the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa. It provides details on required medical examinations and acceptable standards of health.

These resources are integral for anyone considering applying for the New Zealand Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa, providing essential information and official guidelines directly from New Zealand government and immigration authorities.