The Highly Skilled Worker Visa in New Zealand (also known as the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa) offers a pathway to residency and employment for qualified individuals with skills and experience that are in demand in New Zealand.
MOBILITY ASSSET SNAPSHOT
The Highly Skilled Worker Visa program in New Zealand provides an opportunity for skilled professionals to live and work in New Zealand permanently. This program is designed to attract talented individuals who can contribute to New Zealand's economy and fill skill gaps in various sectors.
Overview
A pathway to permanent residency and employment for skilled professionals in New Zealand
Eligibility Requirements
Individuals aged 55 or younger with work experience and a job offer that meet New Zealand's skill shortages. Skills must be proven on a points-based system
Anchor Ancestor restrictions
Months to citizenship
Length of Visa
Permanent residence
Months to Visa
4-6 months
Physical Presence Requirement
No specific requirement, but employment in New Zealand is expected
Availability
Moderate
Family Allowance
Spouse and children
Overview
Submit an Expression of Interest, and if selected, you will be invited to apply for the visa.
Overview
Our experienced team will guide you through each stage of the application process, offering personalized assistance tailored to your needs.
We'll help you gather and organize the documents you need for applying.
Once your documents are ready, we'll let you know where and how to submit your application to the relevant authorities.
Questions?
Find answers to common questions about GlobalPassport™ and our services.
How is the points-based system for the Highly Skilled Worker Visa calculated?
Points are awarded based on factors such as age, qualifications, work experience, and job offer.
Can I bring my family members with me on a Highly Skilled Worker Visa?
Yes, you can include your partner and dependent children in your application.
Do I need a job offer to apply for the Highly Skilled Worker Visa?
While a job offer is not always required, it can significantly increase your chances of being selected and awarded points.
How long does it take to process a Highly Skilled Worker Visa application?
Processing times vary, but Immigration New Zealand aims to process 80% of applications within 5 months.
Can Highly Skilled Worker Visa holders apply for New Zealand citizenship?
Yes, visa holders can apply for New Zealand citizenship after meeting residency requirements, typically after 5 years of residence.
DOCUMENTS
Passport
Marriage certificate and birth certificates of dependents (if applicable)
Proof of accommodation
A clean criminal record is required, confirmed through police clearance certificates from the applicant's country of origin and any country of residence in the past 5 years
Not applicable
DOCUMENTS
Birth certificates from government archives; Marriage certificates for family dependencies; Police clearance records from current and past residences
Certified translations into official language(s); Apostille certification; Government-issued document legalization
Diploma and transcript verification; Professional certification authentication; Credential evaluation services
Initial application submission fee; Processing and handling charges; Administrative review fees
Fingerprint collection fee; Digital photograph requirements; Biometric data processing
Required medical examinations; Vaccination verification; Health certificate processing
Document verification fees; Background check processing; Application status updates
Consulate visit expenses; Interview travel costs; Temporary accommodation (if required)
Language proficiency testing; Skills assessment fees; Additional document requests
Immigration lawyer consultation; Document review services; Legal representation fees
Tax planning consultation; Asset transfer advisory; Investment planning services
Relocation services; Property search assistance; Settlement support services
Residency card processing; Passport issuance fees; Registration certificates
Oath ceremony fees; Registration charges; Local authority fees
Renewal fees; Status maintenance costs; Annual reporting fees
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