If you’re thinking about moving to New Zealand, selecting the best visa can be a stressful process. Due to COVID-19, many of New Zealand’s visas were temporarily put on hold, however, the borders have now reopened, expanding the options available to those who want to relocate.
Unlike the visa application process in many other countries, New Zeland immigration is renowned for being helpful and supportive of applicants. While it’s best for you to provide as much information as possible, they’ll likely get in touch if you’re missing anything, as opposed to simply refusing your application. For this reason, many people moving to New Zealand handle the application process themselves instead of hiring a third party.
Here, we’ll explore some of the most popular visas that allow you to live permanently in New Zealand. If your situation doesn’t meet the requirements set out below, you can get more advice on the New Zealand immigration website.
Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa
One of the most popular visas for those moving to New Zealand, the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa is for those who have skills that can help the country’s economic growth. This visa allows you, your partner and any dependant children to live, work and study in New Zealand permanently. It is an ideal visa for anyone who has qualifications or experience in any of New Zealand’s skills shortage industries.
To apply for this visa you need to be under 55 years of age and have a reasonable level of English. You’ll need to submit an Expression of Interest and provide enough evidence to show that you meet the requirements for this visa. If your EOI is accepted, you’ll then be invited to apply. EOIs were temporarily closed due to COVID, but are due to reopen on November 9th 2022.
Accredited Employer Work Visa
If you’re fortunate enough to already have a job offer, but it’s not in a skills shortage industry, you may still be eligible for the Accredited Employer Work Visa. The company in question will need to be registered as an “accredited employer” – if they’re not, it’s well worth enquiring whether they’d consider it.
This is a temporary visa that lasts for up to three years provided you earn at or above the median wage of $27.76 an hour. If you earn less than this, the visa will last two years. This visa may lead to the Straight To Residence Visa or Work To Residence Visa.
Learn more about visa processing times and relevant costs.
Moving to New Zealand and need help with removals? Visit our international removals to New Zealand page.
