A BRIEF OVERVIEW OF residence policy for SKILLED MIGRAtion
FAST TRACK STRAIGHT TO RESIDENCE - GREEN LIST (Tier 1)
If you have a job (or a job offer) in one of the occupations on INZ’s Green List, you can apply for residence now. You have to be 55 years or under and meet the health, character and English language criteria. Also, your job must meet the salary threshold.
https://www.immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas/apply-for-a-visa/tools-and-information/work-and-employment/green-list-occupations
work to residence visa (2 years) - Green list (tier 2)
If you have a job (or job offer) in one of the occupations specified in this section of the Green List you can apply for residence after working in the role for at least 2 years.
SKILLED MIGRANT - POINTS SYSTEM
This category is a points-based system, with a minimum of 6 points needed to apply. To qualify you will need to satisfy the following basic criteria:
Qualify according to one of the following :
Have a relevant, recognised qualification - minimum of a Level 7 Bachelor degree (3 points), or a postgraduate qualification (4 points), a Masters level degree (5 points) or a PhD (6 points) OR
High income employment (1.5x, 2x, or 3x times the median wage) OR
Professional occupational registration of 2 - 6+ years
Have skilled employment in New Zealand - this is essential regardless of points
Have NZ skilled work experience - 1 year = 1 point, 2 years = 2 points etc
6.5 IELTS or equivalent proficiency in English
Be of good health and character
Be 55 years old or less
GET SELECTED
The first step in the application process is known as an “Expression of Interest” (EOI). Your EOI application is entered into a “pool” along with other potential applications. Every 2 weeks INZ select a number of applications for consideration. For obvious reasons, preference is given to applicants with a skilled job offer or current skilled employment.
The minimum threshold for selection is 6 points.
If your application is selected from the pool, it will be checked and you may be invited to apply for residence. This is the second step.
Your application can stay in the pool for up to 6 months, before it is withdrawn. You are free to submit another application at any time.
For details of your individual circumstances please contact us for a personal assessment.