What is the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa?
The Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa New Zealand is specially designed for skilled workers who want to live and work in New Zealand permanently. This visa is a commonly chosen pathway for permanent residency in the country. This visa is granted based on the applicant's ability to contribute to the society and economy of New Zealand. This visa also allows the applicant to bring their dependent family members along. This visa particularly aims at individuals with skills, qualifications and work experience that are in high demand in the labour market of New Zealand.
Why Choose the Skilled Migrant Category Visa New Zealand?
New Zealand offers various benefits to those wanting to migrate to New Zealand under the Skilled Migrant Category Visa New Zealand. Below listed are some of the reasons to choose this visa type to move to NZ.
- The Skilled Migrant Resident Visa New Zealand visa holders are given permanent residency allowing them to live, work and study in New Zealand for an indefinite period.
- New Zealand offers world-class educational opportunities and an excellent healthcare system. The visa holders and their family members can have access to the education and healthcare available in NZ.
- The applicant will be eligible to apply for citizenship after living in New Zealand for a specific period, usually 5 years.
- This visa allows the applicant to work for any employee anywhere in New Zealand giving them the flexibility to work and travel freely within New Zealand. This visa also allows applicants to switch jobs when required.
- The Skilled Migrant Visa NZ allows the applicant to bring their family members along with them. This is a great option for family reunions in New Zealand.
Eligibility Criteria for the Skilled Migrant Category Visa New Zealand
To be eligible for the NZ skilled migrant visa, the applicant must meet several criteria. Here are some of the basic requirements to qualify for this visa.
The age is the first criteria the applicant should meet. The applicant should be under the age of 56 when applying for this visa.
- New Zealand uses a point-based system to check the eligibility for the Skilled migrant category resident visa in New Zealand. The applicant has to get a minimum score of 160 points based on several factors. These factors include age, qualifications, work experience and eligible job offer from an authorized employer in New Zealand. Points are awarded for the work experience and qualifications possessed by the partner of the applicant.
- The applicant should be employed in an occupation that is on the shortage list in New Zealand or should hold a job offer from an employer in New Zealand. The occupation list is regularly updated and the ones that are in demand are given high priority.
- The applicant should be able to communicate in English and should prove their proficiency through English Language skills such as IELTS and TOEFL.
- The applicant and their relatives should meet the health and character requirements to be eligible for this visa. They should undergo police verification and a medical examination.
- The applicant should have relevant work experience for at least two years in a skilled occupation or in a field related to their qualifications.
How to Apply for the Skilled Migrant Visa NZ?
The process of applying for a Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa can look like a complex process. But it can be manageable with proper guidance and support. We have given a breakdown of the steps involved in the application process.
Self-Assessment
The applicant has to do a self-assessment test to determine the eligibility. This can be done by going through the immigration website of New Zealand or with the assistance of an immigration consultant. Knowing the eligibility will make sure you meet the necessary points threshold required for the visa.
Submit an Expression of Interest
The next step is to submit the Expression of Interest. This will include information about your qualifications, work experience and any other relevant information. The EOI will be evaluated and if all the criteria are met by the applicant, an Invitation to apply for the New Zealand Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa will be given.
Receive an Invitation to Apply
If you score the required points and if the EOI is selected from the pool, you will receive an Invitation to Apply for permanent residence. Once you receive this, you can submit your completed visa application.
Submit a Visa Application
The visa application which is filled with accuracy should be submitted once the ITA is received. A few supporting documents should be submitted along with the application. These documents include work experience documents, proof of language proficiency, educational certificates, and medical and police verification certificates.
Wait for a Decision
After the visa application has been submitted, the Immigration New Zealand known as the INZ team will begin processing it. The applicant will receive the Skilled Migrant Resident visa once the application is successful.
Processing Time for the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa New Zealand
The processing time for the New Zealand Skilled Migrant Resident Visa varies based on several factors. It depends on the time when applied and also the completeness of the application. Usually, this process takes anywhere between a few months to over a year.
Can You Bring Your Family on the Skilled Migrant Visa NZ?
Yes, applicants can bring in their dependent partners and children under the age of 24 to live with them in New Zealand through the Skilled Migrant visa. They can also work or study in the country while living with their family and loved ones. The applicants have to include them in their visa application and provide additional documentation that supports each of their family members.
