SKILLED MIGRANT CATEGORY RESIDENT VISA

The Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa is designed for skilled workers who wish to migrate to New Zealand permanently. This visa is points-based and assesses applicants based on factors such as age, skills, work experience, qualifications, and other factors that contribute to their ability to settle and contribute to the New Zealand economy. Here's what you need to know about the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa:

  • Eligibility: To be eligible for the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa, applicants must meet certain criteria related to age, health, character, English language proficiency, and occupation. They must also score enough points on the New Zealand Points System, which assesses factors such as age, qualifications, work experience, and job offer.
  • Points System: The New Zealand Points System assigns points to applicants based on various factors such as age, qualifications, work experience, job offer, and partner's skills. Applicants must score a minimum number of points to be eligible to apply for the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa.
  • Expression of Interest (EOI): Prospective applicants must first submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) to Immigration New Zealand, detailing their qualifications, work experience, and other relevant information. EOIs are then scored based on the points system, and those with sufficient points may be invited to apply for residency.
  • Invitation to Apply (ITA): Applicants who receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) can then submit a formal application for the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa. This application includes providing evidence of qualifications, work experience, health, character, and other supporting documents.
  • Processing Time: The processing time for Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa applications can vary depending on factors such as the volume of applications, completeness of documentation, and individual circumstances. In general, processing times can range from several months to over a year.
  • Residency: Successful applicants and their family members are granted residency in New Zealand, allowing them to live, work, and study in the country indefinitely. Residency also provides access to certain social benefits and healthcare services.

Overall, the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa offers skilled workers the opportunity to migrate to New Zealand permanently and contribute to the country's economy and society. It's a popular pathway for individuals seeking to build a new life in a vibrant and diverse country.