Changes For The Skilled Migrant Work Visa In New Zealand

Auckland, New Zealand (November 22, 2016) – Immigration New Zealand implemented changes for the skilled migrant work visa in New Zealand last October 12, 2016. Previously, those with who had 100 to 139 points with a job offer were invited to Apply for Residence under the old policy EOI. However, with the increased point threshold, applicants for the Skilled Migrant Category Expression of Interest (EOI) will now need 160 points or more to qualify.

Under this new policy, EOIs with 160 points or more will naturally be automatically selected from the pool, regardless of trade. For instance, a food technologist who has 160 points would be included in the pool as opposed to a civil engineer who failed to meet the requirement. However, those who have already been issued an Invitation to Apply (ITA) prior to this recent development can apply under the old policy. The same is true for people who have been selected but have not received their ITAs.

Applicants should also be aware of other changes that will take effect aside from the ones mentioned above. The new policy also requires anyone who wants to claim points for Skilled Employment to have a 6.5 score on the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Dependents or a partner who do not have interest in claiming points for Skilled Employment will need to have 5.0 IELTS. If they don’t meet the minimum standards, they will be required to pre-purchase English tuition. However, it is also worth noting that Immigration New Zealand will now accept other English Language Tests such as TOFEL, PTE, OET, and FCE.

Changes in policy will also affect the Parent Category. As of now, Immigration New Zealand has temporarily closed new applications for this category. No new selections will be made here until further notice.

The process for work visa application has become even more complicated, and there are other factors that will need to be considered. Applicants, therefore, are encouraged to seek professional help from Llicensed Immigration Advisers.

For more information, go to www.Asic.co.nz

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Auckland South Immigration Consultants Limited provides accurate advice to immigrants from different countries so they may live, work and study in NZ. Known for efficient customer service, high client satisfaction rates and reasonable fees, the company’s focus is on skilled migrant visa, essential skills work visa, and residency visa.