New Zealand Immigration
New Zealand offers a range of visa options depending on your reason for moving, such as work, study, family reunification, or investment. Here’s an overview of key pathways and their eligibility criteria:
1. Work Visas
Essential Skills Work Visa
Job Offer: Must have a job offer from a New Zealand employer in an occupation that matches the skills and experience you have.
Skill Level: The job must be on the Essential Skills in Demand list or match your skills.
Salary: The job must meet a minimum salary threshold unless it’s on the shortage list.
Skilled Migrant Visa:
Points-Based System: Eligibility is based on a points system that considers age, experience, and qualifications.
Job Offer: A job offer or employment in an occupation that is in demand can contribute to your points.
Qualifications: Must have recognized qualifications or work experience.
Work to Residence Visa:
Job Offer: Must have a job offer with a New Zealand employer who meets specific criteria.
Occupation: The job must be in a skill-shortage area or a role where you can transition to residency.
2. Residence Visas
Skilled Migrant Residence Visa:
Points-Based System: Similar to the Skilled Migrant Visa but leads to permanent residency.
Job Offer: Having a job offer or being employed in New Zealand can help meet the points requirement.
English Language: Must demonstrate English language proficiency.
Residence from Work Visa
Eligibility: For those who have held a work visa and wish to apply for permanent residency.
Job Offer: Must have been working in New Zealand for a certain period.
Investor Visas
Investor 1 (Investor Plus) Visa: Requires an investment of NZD 10 million over 3 years.
Investor 2 Visa: Requires an investment of NZD 3 million over 4 years and meeting points-based criteria.
Entrepreneur Visas:
Entrepreneur Work Visa: For individuals planning to establish or buy a business in New Zealand.
Business Plan: Must have a business plan and sufficient funds to support the business.
3. Family Visas
Partner of a New Zealander Visa
Relationship: Must be in a genuine and stable relationship with a New Zealand citizen or resident.
Financial Support: Must prove financial support and accommodation arrangements.
Parent Resident Visa
Eligibility: For parents of New Zealand citizens or residents.
Financial Requirement: Must meet minimum income requirements and pass a medical check.
4. Student Visas:
Course Offer: Must have an offer to study at a New Zealand educational institution.
Financial Requirements: Must show you have sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses.
English Language: May need to meet English language proficiency requirements depending on the course.
5. Visitor Visas
Purpose: For short-term visits for tourism, business, or to visit family.
Financial Proof: Must demonstrate you can support yourself financially during your stay.
6. Refugee and Protection Visas
Claim: Must be in New Zealand and demonstrate a well-founded fear of persecution in your home country.
7. Protected Persons Visa
Eligibility: For individuals who are recognized as being at risk of harm or persecution.
Upon approval, apply for a Green Card.
Fees:
Skilled Migrant Visa: Around NZD 3,310 for the principal applicant.
Investor Visa: Varies based on the type of investor visa
Student Visa: Around NZD 330.
Visitor Visa: Around NZD 185 for online applications.
Application Process
Determine Eligibility: Check which visa fits your circumstances.
Gather Documents: Prepare required documents such as job offers, qualifications, and proof of funds.
Submit Application: Apply online through the Immigration New Zealand website or at a New Zealand embassy or consulate.
Pay Fees: Submit application fees as required.
Wait for Processing: Processing times vary by visa type and individual circumstances.
