Due to border limitations, April 2020 turned out to be a disaster as the Skilled Migrant Category was essentially shut down. However, New Zealand started taking Expressions of Interest (EOIs) for the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa again on November 11, 2022.
This comprehensive guide provides an overview of the entire process, from understanding the eligibility criteria to submitting your application. It also covers useful tips and tricks that can help you maximize your chances of success. You will have all the information you need to make an informed decision and successfully apply for a Resident Visa in New Zealand!
What is a Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa and Who Can Apply?
This category of Resident Visa in New Zealand is an incredibly popular visa for those looking to move to New Zealand. This visa allows skilled migrants to live, work and study in the country, providing them with the opportunity to gain a foothold in the Kiwi job market.
This initiative seeks to recruit international talent for employment in New Zealand. It is a points-based system where points can be earned depending on a number of factors, including age, education, work experience, and employment offers in New Zealand. Suppose an applicant receives at least 180 points and satisfies the necessary health and character conditions. In that case, their expression of interest will be recognised and they will be invited to apply (ITA) for residence.
Candidates must be 55 or younger. One can apply for a skilled migrant visa NZ without payiSkilled Migrant Category Resident Visang extra to include their spouse/partner and dependent children who are 24 years old or younger. Every year, thousands of people apply for this visa and many of them succeed in their application.
What Are the Steps Involved?
If you are looking to move to New Zealand and become a permanent resident New Zealand, this Visa is an excellent option. It allows you to live, work and study in New Zealand, as well as access most public services and benefits. In order to apply for this visa, there are a few steps that you will need to take.
- You must fill out the EOI form with comprehensive information about you and your family, including your age, occupation, credentials, and English-language proficiency.
- You will receive points for your responses. To be qualified, you must receive at least 180.
- If you get 180 points or more and meet the necessary character and health conditions, you will be invited to apply (ITA) for residence.
- You will have four months to submit your application if you are selected to apply.
What Needs to Be Submitted in Your Application?
Online submission of the application is required. After submitting the online form, you must pay the application fees. You must provide the following documents:
- a picture of you and everyone you listed in your application.
- a photocopy of your passport and one for each applicant listed.
- police records for all family members who are at least 17 years old, including you.
- your EOI
- records of employment
- proof of your or your partner’s qualifications
- record of your partner’s and your professional experience
- a history of your relationship with your partner, with supporting documentation
- Evidence such as a birth certificate to demonstrate your relationship with any dependent children you have listed
- a verified Employer Supplementary form (INZ1235)
- a verified Resident Visa Declaration form (INZ1242)
- your English language proficiency or exam results
How long does it take to get a Skilled Migrant Category resident visa?
After you submit your ITA (Invitation to apply) documents, it is added to a queue of applications awaiting review. The volume of cases handled by Immigration New Zealand will determine the processing time. Processing timeframes fluctuate over time. Applications that have been given priority typically take 4–7 weeks to process, whereas those that have not been given priority require 10–18 months.
How Can We Help?
Immigration Chambers has a team of immigration law specialists who will aid in the development of your case in order to help Immigration New Zealand easily determine your qualification.
Wrapping Up
Mistakes in your application can put your ambition of relocating to New Zealand at risk. Our experts will walk you through the application process and provide information on the application form for skilled migrants. We will also discuss some of the documents and evidence that must be provided to successfully apply for an SMC Resident Visa. With Immigration Chambers, you can ensure that your application is as successful as possible. Get in touch with us today!