New Zealand offers many pathways for those seeking to visit, study, work or even live in Aotearoa. However, using these available options isn’t quite as simple as getting on a plane and travelling. There are different complexities that all potential visitors, workers or residents should understand before they begin the immigration process.

What To Know About The New Zealand Immigration Process

To legally work or stay in New Zealand, you must be granted an appropriate visa. Typically, this process is rather straightforward, and you’ll simply need to follow the right steps to do your part correctly.

To maximise your chances of success, it’s best to work with qualified immigration consultants and do your research beforehand.

However, complexities can arise during your stay, such as the following:

Overstayers And The Section 61 Immigration Act

An overstayer is someone who remains in New Zealand even after their visa has expired and is, therefore, staying in the country unlawfully. When you get your visa, it’s imperative that you understand its duration and prepare for when you have to leave. 

Overstaying can lead to serious consequences, including deportation and major difficulties in obtaining visas in the future. However, there is one thing you can do – submit a Section 61 request. 

Section 61 of the Immigration Act allows individuals who are unlawfully staying in Aotearoa to apply for a visa. This process is at the discretion of the Minister Of Immigration, and there are three possible outcomes of this request:

• No Consideration At All: The request is not considered at all, automatically being denied. 
• Denial: The request is considered, but ultimately the visa is rejected.
• Approval: The request is considered, and then the visa is approved.

Please note that not all unlawfully present individuals are eligible to apply for a Section 61 request. Those with the following qualities are not allowed to apply: 

• Those who have a deportation order.
• Those who have previously had limited visas.
• Those who are refugees whose applications have already been declined.
• Those who fall under Section 15 or 16 of the Immigration Act.

Those dealing with the confusing and often stressful details of an S61 request should consider working with experienced immigration consultants to simplify the process and improve the chances of success. 

Deportation And Appeals

There are several factors that can trigger deportation liability, such as the following: 

• Overstaying a visa. 
• Having a visa that was granted incorrectly or obtained under false pretences. 
• Breaching visa conditions.
• Criminally offending.
• Concealing relevant information. 

The Minister Of Immigration has the authority to determine deportation based on these grounds. Individuals facing potential deportation are strongly encouraged to research and understand the legal framework of it and to seek professional guidance to improve their chances of a positive outcome for them.

There are available options for appealing deportation decisions. Most decisions made under the Immigration Act 1987 can still be appealed, providing a critical avenue for those seeking to overturn or change deportation orders. 

It’s vital to note that the deportation appeal process requires thorough preparation and an understanding of immigration law. If you are someone who is dealing with deportation, it’s essential to get help from the right people, such as experienced NZ immigration consultants.

The Role Of Ministerial Discretion

The Minister Of Immigration must have absolute discretion regarding certain immigration decisions, particularly under Section 61. This means that the Minister can choose whether to consider a request and is not obligated to provide specific reasons for their decision, with some exceptions. This discretion is meant to balance legal requirements with humanitarian considerations, allowing for a nuanced approach to the often complex immigration process. 

As each case is unique, it’s of utmost importance for the Minister to strike a balance between upholding immigration laws and addressing the humanitarian aspect of an individual’s situation. They must weigh the legalities against the potential social impact, ensuring that justice is served while also considering each applicant’s individual circumstances. 

What To Do When Navigating These Challenges

If you find yourself struggling with any situations similar to those detailed in this article, here are a few steps to consider:

Engage With Professionals. Immigration challenges can be complex, and their outcomes can significantly affect those who are involved. To improve your chances, consider working with immigration specialists who can assist you with their skills. 

Stay Informed. Understanding your rights and obligations under New Zealand’s immigration law is crucial. When applying for your visa or when handling issues, be sure you do your research and understand applicable laws. A skilled immigration consultant’s help can be invaluable during this step. 

Stay Prepared. Whether you’re applying for a standard visa or appealing a deportation order, thorough preparation is key. Work with your immigration consultant to ensure you are fully prepared. 

Staying Informed And Prepared For The Immigration Process In New Zealand

For expert immigration help, consider us at Auckland South Immigration Consultants. We understand that visa challenges can be stressful, and we wish to help. 

To learn more, you can contact us on 0800 16 8472 or use our website.

Immigration issues require thorough preparation and support, and we at Auckland South Immigration Consultants are here for you.

Many people dream of living and working in New Zealand. This gorgeous country has so many wonders, from the busy streets of Auckland to the absolutely breathtaking sights of our untouched natural landscapes. New Zealand, especially in prominent cities like Auckland, offers migrants heaps of opportunities for steady jobs and enriching experiences.

There are plenty of different visa categories you could consider for the next chapter in your life, and in this article, we’ll be focusing on the Green List category. To put it simply, this list identifies high-demand jobs and offers people who meet certain requirements a clear pathway to work and residency in NZ.

Understanding The Green List

The Green List highlights a select group of highly skilled occupations that are in high demand in New Zealand. These roles are very important jobs that are essential for this country’s economic growth and development. 

The Green List aims to attract qualified individuals who can contribute to this country’s workforce and society by streamlining the recruitment process for these roles. It’s no surprise that applying for a visa can be a stressful endeavour, so simplifying the process can make it more appealing for individuals who meet any of the requirements needed for jobs recognised on the Green List. 

Overall, the Green List can help attract efficient workers to our country, while providing fulfilling jobs for people who want them.

Fast-Tracked Pathways

The Green List is comprised of two tiers of jobs. The first tier, Tier 1, is for Straight to Residence visas. Individuals who meet all requirements for Tier 1 jobs can apply for residency right away, even if they’re still living offshore. This is because these jobs are in such high demand.

A few Tier 1 jobs are chemical engineer, electrical engineer, anaesthetist, veterinarian and food technologist.

The second tier, Tier 2, is for Work to Residence visas. While Tier 2 jobs are still very important, their visa pathway allows workers to work in New Zealand and gives them the chance to apply for residency after two full years of successfully working in their selected occupation. Additionally, individuals paid at least twice the median wage in other roles may also qualify for residency after two years of work. 

A few Tier 2 jobs are anaesthetic technician, sonographer, automotive electrician and registered plumber. 

If you’re curious about whether or not your current job is on the Green List, you can use this convenient tool to narrow down the list and search for your occupation.

If you know about New Zealand’s visa categories, you might be wondering if the Green List differs from the current Skills Shortage List. While they are similar, and many occupations that were on the Skills Shortage List are on the Green List, the Green List is a much smaller and more narrowed-down version of the Skills Shortage List. It prioritises the most in-demand and essential jobs.

It’s also very important to note that the Green List will replace the Skills Shortage List and any jobs on the Skills Shortage List but not the Green List won’t be eligible for the more streamlined pathway to residency or work. However, as mentioned above, other roles that have at least twice the pay of the median wage may be eligible for a Work to Residence pathway. 

The Advantages Of The Green List Category

The Green List is designed to be an advantageous choice and has plenty of benefits for those who are eligible and want to come and live and work in this beautiful country:

• Stability And Security. A fast pathway to residency offers stability and security to eligible workers, giving them a reliable way to happily and comfortably live their lives in a place where they are needed.
• Access To Healthcare And Education. Workers who meet all necessary requirements will have access to New Zealand’s healthcare and education systems, ensuring their well-being and giving them an opportunity to learn and grow.
• Enhanced Quality Of Life. New Zealand is considered a very wonderful place to live. With its pristine environment and vibrant culture, there’s certainly something for everyone. For those who love nature’s wonders, you can hike through our stunning locales or even learn how to surf on our sparkling oceans. For those who want to indulge in local culture, you can explore popular areas like Auckland or Christchurch.

Unlocking The Next Chapter In Your Life With The Green List

Regardless of whether or not your job is listed on the Green List, we at Auckland South Immigration Consultants are here to help you understand your visa opportunities and prepare your visa application. 

We know that applying for a New Zealand visa can be stressful. Even simply determining which visa category is right for you can be a challenge. So, we invite you to explore our services to understand what we do.

Or, if you’d like some personalised help, call our team on 0800 16 8472 or use our contact page to get in touch.

Auckland South Immigration Consultants: Let us help you live out your dream of living in New Zealand.

In the dynamic landscape of immigration policies, staying informed about the recent changes is crucial for individuals aspiring to make New Zealand their new home. As of September 2023, the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Visa has undergone significant transformations. 

Many people dream of living in beautiful Aotearoa and making this country a better place through their skills – by following the right steps and getting the right help, you can fulfil this dream.

Understanding The Skilled Migrant Category Visa

The Skilled Migrant Category is designed to attract individuals with valuable skills and expertise to New Zealand. Applicants are assessed based on requirements such as qualifications, work experience and job offer prospects. The goal is to ensure that immigrants bring skills that contribute to New Zealand’s economic growth and development.

In late 2023, this visa category underwent notable changes that affect those who wish to enter New Zealand through this pathway. Of course, if you’re planning on applying for this kind of visa to live and work in New Zealand, it’s vital that you understand these changes. The changes that became effective as of late 2023 include:

A New Points Allocation System. The points system, a pivotal aspect of SMC Visa applications, has witnessed adjustments to reflect evolving priorities. Applicants must accumulate a minimum of six points to qualify for this visa. These points can be claimed from three main categories:

• New Zealand Occupational Registration: Applicants can claim 3 to 6 points based on this.
• Qualification: Points can be claimed based on the applicant’s qualifications.
• Income From Job Or A Job Offer: Points can be claimed based on the income earned from a job or job offer, provided that it is at least 1.5 times the median wage in NZ.

It’s crucial to note that points can only be claimed from one of the above skill categories. Combining points from multiple categories, such as qualifications and occupational registration, is not allowed. 

Applicants can also claim 1 point for each year of work in New Zealand, with a maximum of 3 points. These points can be combined with those claimed from occupational registration, qualification or income.

Skilled Job Offer Requirements. A significant change is the mandatory requirement for applicants to have a skilled job or job offer from an accredited employer in Aotearoa. This requirement persists even if applicants are claiming the maximum available points. For a job or job offer to be considered skilled, it must meet specific criteria:

• The job must be at least 30 hours a week.
• The job must fall under an ANZSCO Level 1 to 3 occupation and be paid at or above the median wage, or be in an ANZSCO Level 4 to 5 occupation and also paid at or above 1.5 times the median wage.
• The position must be on a permanent contract or fixed-term contract for a minimum of 12 months.

Some Requirements Remain Unchanged

It’s important to note that the Skilled Migrant Category Visa has not been completely revamped. While substantial changes have been introduced, certain requirements for the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa have remained constant. These include:

• Character requirements.
• Health requirements.
• English language requirements.
• Age requirements: Applicants must be 55 years old or under to be eligible to apply.

Applicants can also include their partners and dependent children, as long as the children are under the age limit of 24 years old, in their application – provided they also meet the English language, health and character requirements.

The Role Of Immigration Advisors In Navigating Change

As the SMC Visa changes, the significance of immigration advisors cannot be overstated. Here’s why engaging their services is instrumental in a successful visa application:

Up-To-Date Knowledge. The changes introduced in September 2023 are intricate and nuanced. Immigration advisers maintain up-to-date knowledge, ensuring applicants are well-informed about the current requirements and expectations. Relying on outdated or inaccurate information can jeopardise the success of a visa application.

Tailored Guidance. Every immigration case is unique, and skilled advisors provide personalised guidance based on individual circumstances. They assess qualifications, work experience and personal factors to develop strategies that maximise the chances of a successful visa application.

Document Preparation And Verification. One of the common pitfalls in visa applications is inadequate or incorrect documentation. Immigration advisers assist in preparing and verifying all necessary documents, reducing the possibility of errors that could lead to delays or rejections.

Ensuring Your Visa Success

These recent changes to the Skilled Migrant Category Visa herald a new era for immigration in Aotearoa. Staying informed about them is vital for prospective applicants, and seeking the guidance of immigration advisors is a strategic move towards successful visa applications. 

We at Auckland South Immigration Consultants are here to ensure you receive the expert guidance and assistance you deserve. We’re proud to help people like you with our extensive services, and we’d love to speak with you about your situation.

Would you like to get in touch with an immigration advisor today? Simply call us on +64 9 279 7283 or contact us through our website to get started.

Let us help you fulfil your dream of living and working in beautiful Aotearoa.

Regardless of where you are in life, what career path you’ve chosen or what blessings or hardships you’re dealing with, family serves as the woven thread that connects generations. The NZ Grandparent Visa stands as a testament to the nation’s commitment to family values and staying connected to those you love the most, even though some of your family members might reside outside of New Zealand.

This visa offers a heartfelt opportunity for citizens or permanent residents to extend a warm embrace to their elders. This comprehensive guide unveils the perks of this particular visa, outlines eligibility criteria and details necessary documents. If you’re interested in applying for this, or any, visa, it’s extremely important that you understand all of the conditions and requirements before you submit any application.

The NZ Grandparent Visa: Keeping Generations Connected

More than a travel document, this visa is a bridge that spans the distance between generations. Crafted for grandparents of NZ citizens or residents, this visitor visa is a conduit for reuniting families, allowing for multiple entries over a three-year period. This visa can enable a cumulative stay of up to 18 months, with each visit being able to extend up to six months. This can offer a flexible and generous time frame for grandparents to spend quality time with their children and grandchildren during their golden years.

Eligibility Criteria For The NZ Grandparents Visa

Like any other visa, embarking on the journey to obtain this type of visa requires meeting certain eligibility criteria:

• Sponsorship: The sponsor must be a grandchild aged at least 17 years or the parent of the grandchild holding an NZ resident visa. Financial stability, intended length of stay, immigration history and criminal record of the sponsor are evaluated. 
• Limitations: A sponsor is restricted to sponsoring either one individual or one family unit (a principal applicant and their partner) at a given time. 
• Healthcare Expenses: Applicants must agree to bear their healthcare expenses during their stay.

Documents Required For This Visa

To ensure a seamless application process, grandparents must provide essential documents, including the following:

• Proof Of Identity: A passport and photographs meeting New Zealand visa photo requirements must be provided to prove the applicant’s identity.
• Health Verification: A chest X-ray and medical examination certificates are required.
• Police Certificate: This document is required only if applicable, especially if the applicant has spent over six months in New Zealand.
• Intentions To Visit New Zealand: Evidence of travel history, retirement certification and a letter detailing family relationships must be presented. You will also need proof of the purpose of the visit, which is often to spend time with family members.

Please note that the application process is rarely quick, and this is no exception for NZ Grandparent Visas. These applications are usually processed within six months, although the processing time may be shorter or longer due to circumstances. So, be prepared to wait for your visa to be correctly processed. If your grandparent needs to be in New Zealand at a specific time, it would be wise to start the process early to allow for processing time.

You will also need to pay an application fee when submitting your application. In this case, the application fee starts at $211.

The Difference Between The Parents Residency Visa And The NZ Grandparents Visa

While the Parents Residency Visa has garnered attention, the Grandparent Visa holds its unique advantages:

• Cost: The fees associated with this visa are notably lower than those for the residency visa.
• Eligibility: The Grandparent Visa extends to grandparents, broadening the scope of eligible family members. 
• Processing Time. The Grandparent Visa boasts a quicker processing time compared to the potentially longer timeline for the residency visa. However, you should still note that processing times may vary.

Grandparent Visa Consultants At Your Service: Navigating The Visa Landscape

While this guide provides you with essential information, the visa application process involves many nuances that demand professional expertise. The NZ Grandparent Visa isn’t just a document; it’s a way for generations to stay connected and bond with one another, so it’s important to apply for it correctly if you dream of spending more time with your loved ones.

To ensure that your application is fully filled out correctly, you understand all of your opportunities and you enhance your chances of being granted a visa, we invite you to speak to our team at Auckland South Immigration Consultants. We’re proud to use our training and expertise to help people just like you stay connected with your beloved family. 

For more information about the NZ Grandparent Visa, you can visit our website to read all about it. We believe that you deserve to stay well-informed, so we encourage you to learn more about any visa you’re interested in applying for before you send in any applications. 

If you’d like some assistance, we’re here to help. Call our team on +64 9 279 7283 or reach out to us through our contact page to get in touch.

Auckland South Immigration Consultants are here to help you create beautiful family memories with those you love.

According to experts, the employment market of New Zealand will continue to see the steady growth it has experienced in the last three years. And, while job opportunities will be available across the board, there are some specific skills that are urgently needed. Finding your qualifications or occupation on the list will certainly make the process of acquiring a work visa that much easier. Based on your skills, potential employers will be identified and notified.

Lists of Skill Shortages

To streamline the process for both employers and potential applicants, the New Zealand government has compiled several lists of skill shortages. The Long Term Skill Shortage List (LTSSL) details occupations where there is a sustained and on-going shortage of workers both globally and in the country. Meanwhile, occupations on the Immediate Skill Shortage List (ISSL) are those that require skilled workers when no New Zealand citizens are available. There is also the Canterbury Skill Shortage List (CSSL) which enumerates occupations that are in shortage specifically in the Canterbury region for the rebuild from the 2010 and 2011 earthquakes.

Shortages Across Different Industries

Applicants will be glad to know that multiple industries have job vacancies. There are Immediate shortages and Long Term shortages in industries like Agriculture and Forestry, Construction, Education, Engineering, Finance/Business, Health and Social Services, ICT and Electronics, Oil and Gas, Recreation, Hospitality and Tourism, Science, Trades and Transport. Right now, the demands for carpenters, builders, electricians, plumbers and welders are high, so visa applicants should take advantage while they can.

Before Applying for a Visa

While having the skills currently in demand is already an edge, it would help if you have the experience to show for it along with your credentials. You should also note that an essential skills work visa does not necessarily allow you to include a partner or dependent in the application. Dependents can, however, apply for a visa separately based on their relationship to you. And, even then, this will only apply to those who will be earning at least NZ $36,800. Those who plan to work on a self-employment arrangement also can’t apply for this visa.

Holders of this specific visa can expect to stay up to five years, but this would always depend on the skill level of the job offered. But, there is no limit to the number of Essential Skills Work Visas you can apply for to extend your stay.

Email Auckland South Immigration Consultants on atesh@asic.co.nz to seek guidance.
 
Sources:

Essential Skills Work Visa, New Zealand Immigration
Job market & key industries, New Zealand Now

People rarely need to see an extensive list of motivations to move to New Zealand. Plenty of employment opportunities and a chance at a great lifestyle for families waiting are reasons enough. However, as a NZ immigration adviser may tell you, settling in isn’t always going to be easy, what with the emotional and physical stress. Make your transition to a new life more manageable by preparing accordingly, starting with your visa.

Go Over All of Your Options

If you aim to live in New Zealand permanently, you will most likely need a residence visa. Now, you should note that there are many options for visas. A licensed immigration adviser can help work out which type you would be eligible for. Once you have selected a category to apply for, carefully read through the requirements. The application can take some time to complete, and the last thing you need is to be delayed because you lack some paper work. Even then, you may not be approved readily, which is why it’s advisable to have a second set of eyes to go over everything – something an immigration adviser like Auckland south Immigration Consultants can also help you with.

Learn About the Employment Market

New Zealand’s employment market is one of the fastest growing around the world. Different sectors and industries are always on the lookout for skilled workers, and the government encourages this, which is why those who possess skills that are in demand might be given a little leeway. If you do not have family already living in the country, you might want to see if any of your skills are included in a skill shortage list. There are several varieties of on demand skill lists (long term, immediate, Canterbury, List of skilled occupations). If your occupation is on one of these lists, you may apply for a specific type of visa like the skilled migrant, essential skills, or work to residence.

Have Important Documents Handy

While your visa is one of the essentials, you should not forget other documents that are just as important. For instance, having your birth certificate, marriage certificate, resume, credit references, international driver’s license, and academic qualifications will make registering for services much easier and you will get settled faster. You may want to ask an immigration adviser like Auckland South Immigration Consultants which of these documents should be in your own language or in certified English translations though so you don’t run into any trouble.

Email Auckland South Immigration Consultants on atesh@asic.co.nz for assistance.
 
Sources:

Before you apply, New Zealand Now
Before you leave, New Zealand Now

The New Zealand labour market is at its peak condition this year with the unemployment rate down to a significant 5.3 per cent, the lowest since 2009.The employment rate, on the other hand, rose to 13 per cent which translates to about 31,000 people hired, and experts say that further growth can be expected. In fact, according to the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, the employment is projected to increase 2.1 per cent each year.

With help from an NZ immigration adviser, immigrants looking for job stability will certainly find it in this country.

Thriving and High-Demand Industries

Experienced workers who have valuable skills for certain industries can make a living in New Zealand. By far, the industry with the highest demand and a good rate of employment as of the moment is construction, focused on technicians and trades people. However, according to the government, industries like health, education, social services, personal services, agriculture and horticulture could prove to be a better fit due to long standing demands.

Other sectors would also see growth in the future, with the need to fill new occupations that may have not been around before. Countless technological advances, globalization and demographic shifts have paved the way for industries like biotechnology, information technology, food and beverage, as well as the movie-making sector.

Factors that Affect Job Stability

The labour market changes based on the country’s needs. And right now, employees demand stability and security in their careers. As such, employers and businesses have changed their ways to improve retention rates. Companies now are more likely to contract workers for highly specific tasks. Versatility is also a highly sought after trait for any industry since there can be a need to switch tasks quickly and employers are leaning towards horizontal career development rather than upward promotion. However, companies will also be willing to spend resources on employees that show promise for improvement through ongoing training or retraining. All of these make in demand jobs in New Zealand more stable.

Transitioning from Work to Residence

The labour market’s current condition is precisely why there are many willing workers who want to apply for work to residence visa in New Zealand. Upgrading from temporary work, long term skill shortage list work or skilled migrant visas is also possible. Normally, you will be required to stay in the country for 2 years before you can apply. You must also meet health and character requirements.

Contact Auckland South Immigration Consultants for assistance by emailing atesh@asic.co.nz.

Sources:

Labour market situation, CareersNZ

The future of work, CareersNZ

Residence from Work Category, New Zealand Now

If you’re looking for employment opportunities overseas, New Zealand is one of the best places to be. With a thriving economy and numerous vacancies, New Zealand has always been an accommodating place for skilled migrant workers to find work.

Now, job opportunities continue to grow, especially with unemployment rates falling to the lowest it has been since 2008. This climate only makes it ideal for you to start considering on applying for a work visa in New Zealand.

Fewer Unemployed than Last Year

The latest numbers from Statistics New Zealand show that the unemployment rate decreased to 5.1 per cent during the second quarter of 2016, compared to the 6.2 per cent unemployment rate recorded during the same period last year.

In unadjusted terms, North Island regions like Auckland reported an unemployment rate of 4.7 per cent in the June 2016 quarter. These numbers have been the lowest it had been since the September 2008 quarter, when the unemployment rate was 4.1 per cent.

Numerous Industries in Need of Workers

Another study conducted by employment firm SEEK found that there were 4.8 per cent more jobs being advertised in July 2016 than during the same period last year. Most available positions were in ICT, trades and services, administration, and office support. Further breaking it down, SEEK found that the most in-demand skills for the ICT industry are developers, programmers, business systems analysts, and project managers.

SEEK New Zealand general manager Janet Faulding attributed the growth of ICT to the fact that many New Zealand companies are tapping into the overseas markets as part of their efforts to grow their business.

More Opportunities in Auckland

Job opportunities in Auckland, for instance, are aplenty. SEEK reported that job adverts in Auckland increased by 5.4 per cent year on year in July. This is due to the area having a strong property market, which thereby drove job opportunities across many professions. Among the many job adverts posted were opportunities in design and architecture, government and defence, construction, accounting, and real estate and property.

Experts foresee that the recruitment market in Auckland will continue to thrive in the future, now that more organisations are ensuring that they get employees with the right skills and experiences.

Take the opportunity of a booming employment market by applying for an essential skills work visa in NZ through Auckland South Immigration Consultants by emailing atesh@asic.co.nz.

Sources:

New Zealand Jobs Accelerate as Caution Urged With New Survey, Bloomberg

Job opportunities rise in New Zealand as unemployment falls, Expat Forum

Auckland seeing strongest job opportunities in New Zealand, Expat Forum

Since the implementation of new changes regarding the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC), many applicants are finding it difficult to qualify. According to Immigration New Zealand, migrants would now need 160 points or more for an Expression of Interest (EOI). Applicants with lower points may still submit EIOs, but there is a good chance that they will not be selected.

This, however, does not mean that interested individuals should be deterred from applying for a work visa in New Zealand to get residency in the future. Should you find yourself unable to meet requirements for SMC, you can apply for the Residence from Work Category.

Residence from Work

To be eligible for this category, you must first satisfy two conditions: a.) prove that you have been in New Zealand on a Work to Residence visa for two years and b.) show that you meet health and character requirements. From here, you can proceed with the next steps, depending on which pathway will suit your needs or qualifications more.

Through Accredited Employers

Accredited employers have been pre-approved to hire skilled or talented workers from overseas. You may check Immigration New Zealand’s accredited employer list to determine the status of an organisation.

If you have a temporary work visa that allows you to work for an accredited employer, you can upgrade to a residence class visa. Under the Residence from Work Category, you must fulfil certain requirements. Firstly, you must have been working with an accredited employer for at least two years. During that period, you must have been employed full time by an accredited employer. Lastly, you must be currently employed and have a base salary of at least NZ$55,000 per year. If applicable, you must also have full or provisional registration to practise in your profession.

Long Term Skill Shortage List

If you get an offer for a job that’s on the Long Term Skill Shortage List, you are already at an advantage for getting a work or residence visa. Typically, a migrant will be granted temporary work visa, which can be upgraded to work to residence visa. To be eligible you must have held a Long Term Skill Shortage List visa for at least two years and employed full time within that duration. You must also be aged 55 or below, with a base salary of at least NZ$45,000 on an annual basis. As with the Residence from Work Category under accredited employers, you must also have full or provisional registration as per your occupation, if needed.

There are other ways to obtain residency in NZ. For instance, you may qualify for an essential skills work visa if this option does not work for you. Talk to a licensed immigration adviser from companies like Auckland South Immigration Consultants Limited to learn more. Email atesh@asic.co.nz for assistance.

Sources:

Residence from Work Category, New Zealand Now

Work visas, New Zealand Now

New Zealand may as well be called a land of opportunities with the forecast of continual growth in employment. According to the latest labour market statistics released by Statistics New Zealand, employment, wage and labour force participation growth remain strong. In fact, in the past quarter alone, the employment rate rose to 66.9 percent, a full 2 points increase from the previous year. Salary and wage rates also went up in both private and public sectors. What’s even better is that there are plenty of job offers across all industries that could easily become viable career paths.

If you think it’s time to move onto greener pastures, the first step is to get a New Zealand work visa.

Thriving Industries

Before you get started on your application process, however, see if some of your skills are on the list of skill shortages in New Zealand. This can guarantee to fast track your employment since businesses in all sectors will be actively scouting for workers. Some industries that have both long term and immediate shortages include Agriculture and Forestry, Construction, Engineering, Health and Social Services, Recreational, Hospitality and Tourism, Science and Trades.

Work Visas

There are more than just one type of work visa available for immigrants, but most are given Essential Skills work visas. These are only temporary. To grant you entry into the country, and the duration of your visa will depend largely on the terms of your job offer or the labour market conditions.

If you are set on living permanently in New Zealand and you qualify for a Residence from Work visa, you should be aware of some key changes in the process. The Skilled Migrant Category recently implemented new changes that have somewhat made it harder for migrants to qualify. Immigration New Zealand now requires 160 points or more for an Expression of Interest (EOI) for a sure shot at being considered for residency. If you meet initial requirements, you have two options to gain residence.

The first path is through Accredited Employers that have been pre-approved to hire skilled or talented workers from overseas. Upgrading your temporary visa will require you to prove that you have been employed full-time by an Accredited Employer for at least two years, are currently employed and have a base salary of at least NZ$55,000 per year.

The second option is to get an offer for a job on the Long Term Skill Shortage List. You can be in a position to upgrade to a work to residence visa provided that you have held that visa for at least two years and were employed full-time during that time. You must also have a salary of at least NZ$45,000 yearly and be aged 55 or below.

A licensed immigration consultant from companies such as Auckland South Immigration Consultants Limited can guide you through the process. Email atesh@asic.co.nz.

Sources:

Residence from Work Category, New Zealand Now
Job Market & Key Industries, New Zealand Now
Job Opportunities Rise in New Zealand as Unemployment Falls, ExpatForum.com