New zealand immigration requirements

New Zealand has a points-based immigration system, which assesses applicants based on their skills, qualifications, work experience, language proficiency, and other factors. Here are the general requirements for immigration to New Zealand:

Visa Types:

  1. Skilled Migrant Category: For skilled workers who want to live and work in New Zealand permanently.
  2. Work to Residence: For skilled workers who want to work in New Zealand for a certain period and then apply for residency.
  3. Residence from Work: For workers who have been living and working in New Zealand for a certain period and want to apply for residency.
  4. Family Category: For family members of New Zealand citizens or residents who want to join them in New Zealand.
  5. Student Visa: For international students who want to study in New Zealand.

General Requirements:

  1. Age: You must be between 18 and 55 years old (inclusive) to apply for a skilled migrant visa.
  2. English Language: You must have a good understanding of English, which is assessed through a language test such as IELTS or TOEFL.
  3. Qualifications: You must have a recognized qualification that is relevant to your job or occupation.
  4. Work Experience: You must have relevant work experience in your field, which is assessed based on the points system.
  5. Points System: You must score at least 160 points out of 180 to be eligible for a skilled migrant visa. Points are awarded based on factors such as your qualifications, work experience, language proficiency, and age.
  6. Health and Character: You must meet New Zealand's health and character requirements, which include undergoing a medical examination and providing police certificates from your home country and any countries where you have lived for five years or more.

Additional Requirements:

  1. Job Offer: If you're applying for a work visa, you must have a job offer from a New Zealand employer.
  2. Tuition Fees: If you're applying for a student visa, you must pay tuition fees for your course.
  3. Funds: You must have sufficient funds to support yourself and your family while living in New Zealand.
  4. Accommodation: You must have suitable accommodation in New Zealand.

Application Process:

  1. Expressions of Interest (EOI): You must submit an EOI online, which is an initial application that assesses your eligibility for a skilled migrant visa.
  2. Invitation to Apply: If your EOI is selected, you'll receive an invitation to apply for a visa.
  3. Visa Application: You must submit a visa application, which includes providing supporting documents and paying the application fee.
  4. Interview: You may be required to attend an interview at a New Zealand embassy or consulate.
  5. Decision: The New Zealand Immigration Department will make a decision on your visa application, which may take several months.

Processing Times:

  1. EOI: 1-6 months
  2. Visa Application: 2-12 months

Fees:

  1. EOI: NZD $530 (approximately USD $350)
  2. Visa Application: NZD $1,350 (approximately USD $900)
  3. Health and Character Requirements: NZD $550 (approximately USD $370)

Note: Fees are subject to change, and you should check the official New Zealand Immigration website for the most up-to-date information.