Guide to New Zealand Immigration
New Zealand is a small country made up of two islands in the South Pacific. According to New Zealand Immigration, the capital city of Auckland has a population of just over one million. The nation values diversity and adaptability and tries to attract immigrants who can bring these characteristics to the economy. There are a number of categories under which you can apply to become a New Zealand resident.
Skilled Migrant
This category is the most common way for people to immigrate into New Zealand. Applicants must meet age, health, occupational, character and English language requirements. If you fit the criteria you must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI), which gives you points for each of your skills. Applicants with 140 points are automatically invited to apply for residency, and those who score between 100 and 140 points will be drawn from a pool and evaluated by New Zealand Immigration. If your application is successful, you will then be offered a residence visa or work permit.
Business and Investment
Investors, entrepreneurs and business people have the opportunity to do business in New Zealand under several categories of the Business and Investment scheme. Options include a long-term business visa, which allows holders to work in New Zealand for three years while they apply for residency as an entrepreneur. Business people can also apply under the Migrant Investment Policy if they can prove that they will make a significant financial contribution to the local economy.
Family
If you are sponsored by a family member who is a New Zealand citizen or resident, you can apply to live and work in New Zealand. This category covers partners, dependent children, parents, siblings and adult children of New Zealand citizens. Applicants must meet minimum requirements to apply for a residence visa or permit, including length of relationship (if partners), health and character requirements.
Pacific Islanders
New Zealand accepts a number of Samoan immigrants each year under the Samoan Quota Scheme. This is a ballot system, and applicants can only apply for residence if their registration form is drawn. There is an additional category called the Pacific Access Category, another ballot system that allows citizens from Kiribati, Tuvalu and Tonga to migrate to New Zealand if their applications are successful.
Considerations
There are fees associated with applications for New Zealand residency and work permits. These non-refundable fees vary depending on the category you apply under, and should be paid when you lodge your application. To submit an application, you will need to provide a series of documents, which may include your passport, photographs, proof of relationship status or a medical examination. Application times vary, but New Zealand immigration try to give a decision or an update within 14 days of receiving your application.
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