Introduction
Securing a Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa in New Zealand is a significant step towards establishing a new life in one of the world's most beautiful and prosperous countries. This comprehensive guide outlines the necessary requirements, documentation, and processes to help you navigate through the application procedure efficiently.
Eligibility Criteria for Skilled Migrant Resident Visa
To apply for the Skilled Migrant Resident Visa, you must meet several eligibility criteria. These include having a skilled job or job offer, meeting health and character requirements, and demonstrating proficiency in the English language.
1. Health Requirements
Medical Examination and Chest X-ray: All applicants, including dependents, must undergo a medical examination and chest X-ray performed by an INZ-approved panel physician. These medical documents must be no more than three months old at the time of application.
Specific Requirements for Children: Dependent children aged 10 or younger require only a medical examination unless specified otherwise. Children aged 11 to 14 must undergo both a medical examination and chest X-ray, with additional tests if required by the physician.
2. Character Requirements
Police Certificates: Applicants aged 17 or older must provide police certificates from all countries of citizenship and any country where they have lived for 12 months or more in the past 10 years. These certificates must be less than six months old at the time of application.
3. English Language Proficiency
Proof of English Proficiency: This can be demonstrated through:
Citizenship: If you are a citizen of an English-speaking country.
Educational Qualifications: If you have studied in an English-speaking institution and obtained qualifications.
English Language Tests: Scores from recognized English language tests that meet the minimum requirements.
Skilled Employment Requirements
To be considered for the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa, your job or job offer must meet specific criteria.
Job Criteria: The job must be at least 30 hours per week and fall within ANZSCO Levels 1 to 3 with a pay rate at or above the median wage, or ANZSCO Levels 4 to 5 with a pay rate at or above 1.5 times the median wage.
Employment Agreement: Provide your employment agreement and job description to verify your occupation, hours, and pay.
Contract Work: If employed on a contract basis, you must prove a history of contract work and at least 12 months of skilled work experience in New Zealand.
Points System for Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa
1. Occupational Registration
Points are awarded based on the level of experience and training required for occupational registration in New Zealand.
Points Allocation:
Level 10 Doctoral Degree: 6 points
Level 9 Master’s Degree: 5 points
Level 8 Bachelor Honour's Degree or Postgraduate Diploma: 4 points
Level 7 Bachelor’s Degree: 3 points
2. Skilled Work Experience
In New Zealand: Points can be claimed for skilled work experience in New Zealand up to a maximum of three years.
Wage Requirements: Ensure you meet the wage threshold throughout your skilled work experience period.
3. Qualification Points
Recognized Qualifications: Qualifications recognized on the New Zealand Qualifications Framework (NZQF) or listed on the List of Qualifications Exempt from Assessment (LQEA).
Points Allocation:
Doctoral Degree (Level 10): 6 points
Master’s Degree (Level 9): 5 points
Bachelor’s Degree (Level 7): 3 points
4. Income Points
Wage Thresholds: Points are awarded based on your income:
3 times the median wage: 6 points
2 times the median wage: 4 points
1.5 times the median wage: 3 points
Skilled Migrant Resident Visa Application Process
1. Gathering Documentation
Include the following evidence with your application:
Employment Agreement and Job Description: To verify your job's nature, hours, and pay.
Medical Certificates: From an INZ-approved panel physician.
Police Certificates: From relevant countries.
Proof of English Proficiency: Through citizenship, qualifications, or English language test results.
2. Submission and Assessment
Submit your completed application with all required documents. During the assessment, Immigration New Zealand may request additional evidence to verify your eligibility.
Conclusion
By thoroughly preparing and ensuring all requirements are met, you enhance your chances of securing a Skilled Migrant Resident Visa in New Zealand. This guide aims to provide you with a clear understanding of the process and necessary steps to achieve your immigration goals.
Immigration Chambers provides comprehensive visa assistance by guiding applicants through every step of the application process. Our services include assessing eligibility, preparing and submitting documentation, and ensuring compliance with all legal requirements. We offer expert advice to address any challenges and streamline the application process for a successful outcome. So don't wait! Connect with our Licensed Immigration Lawyer in Auckland for expert guidance and seamless visa processing.
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