New Zealand- Skilled Migrant Visa

Accepted Language Tests:

Settlement Funds:

• Applicants need to demonstrate efficient funds for living costs, travel, and relocation.
• Showing $1,000 per month for 9 months serves as proof of funds.

Name of your English test Minimum score required for your EOI:

Additional Notes:

• Self-employment and work experience gained as a full-time student (including co-op terms) do not count towards the work experience requirement.
• If you are a Provincial Nominee, you must settle in the province or territory that nominated you.

Step 1: Submission of Expression of Interest (EOI)

Submit Your Expression of Interest (EOI):

• At this initial stage, you submit your Expression of Interest (EOI) to the immigration authorities. The latest EOI selection occurred on August 16, 2023.
• All EOIs in the pool were assessed on this date. Those with a score of 180 or higher were invited to apply for a visa, while those with a score below 180 were declined.

Immigration Fees:

• Application Fee: There is no fee for submitting an EOI using the new scoring system.
• Visa Application Fee: If you receive an invitation to apply, you will need to pay the visa application fee online using Visa or MasterCard.

Invitation to Apply:

• If your EOI is selected, the immigration authorities will review your point claims for various factors, including age, experience, occupation, and eligibility.

Submit Your Expression of Interest (EOI):

• If you meet the criteria, you will receive an invitation to apply for a resident visa in the skilled migrant category.
• You have a 4-month window from the date of the invitation to apply for this visa. Failing to do so within this timeframe will necessitate submitting a new EOI.

Step 2: Visa Application

Residency Application:

• After receiving an invitation to apply, you proceed to submit your application for a Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa.
• The application process involves providing a set of documents to support your claims regarding employment, health, character, and English language proficiency.
• You will also be provided with an “Employer Supplementary Form” to be completed by potential employers.

Visa Decision:

• Once you have submitted your application, the immigration authorities will assess your eligibility for a Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa.
• You will receive guidance on any further steps you need to take, including providing additional information or documentation.
• In certain cases, you may be required to participate in an interview as part of the assessment process.
• If you are already in New Zealand during this period, it’s essential to maintain a valid visa to comply with immigration regulations.