New Zealand Applies a points-based system similar to Canada and Australia to attract highly skilled and experienced professionals from around the world. As a result, the country can gradսally boost its economy. New Zealand has a well-organized Immigration Process designed to attract immigrants.
Skilled Migrant Category Visa for New Zealand
The New Zealand government offers a Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) visa, which provides a pathway to permanent residency (PR). Unlike direct PR, the skilled migrant residence visa allows you to enter the country, search for a job, and then convert it to PR. The skilled migrant residence visa is typically valid for around one year with the possibility of extending it up to two years. You can promptly convert the SMC visa into PR when you secure a job in New Zealand. Essentially, it acts as a bridging visa for New Zealand PR. Keep in mind that the SMC visa application process is conducted online.
Language Requirements for New Zealand SMC Visa
Accepted Language Tests:
| Language Test |
Details |
| IELTS (International English Language Testing System) |
- Scores range from 0 to 9.
- You need at least 6.5 bands in each module for immigration.
- Half-band scores are also possible (e.g., 6.5 or 7.5).
- Both Academic and General Modules are accepted.
- You receive individual skill scores (listening, reading, writing, speaking) and an overall band score.
|
| PTE (Pearson Test of English) |
- PTE General: Requires a minimum score of 65 or above in all 4 modules (reading, writing, speaking, and listening) for immigration.
- PTE Academic: Requires a minimum score of 58 or above in all 4 modules.
|
| TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) iBT |
- You must achieve a total score of 79 or higher in a TOEFL test taken within the last two years from the date of application submission.
|
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:
| Language Test |
Minimum Score Required |
| International English Language Testing System (IELTS) - General or Academic Module |
Overall score of 6.5 or more |
| Test of English as a Foreign Language Internet-based Test (TOEFL iBT) |
Overall score of 79 or more |
| Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic) |
Overall score of 58 or more |
| Cambridge English: First (FCE) or Cambridge English: First (FCE) for Schools |
Overall score of 176 or more |
| Occupational English Test (OET) |
Grade B or higher in all four skills (Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking)
A score of Grade B or higher in all four skills is required for the OET as there is no overall grade for this test. |
Check Your Eligibility
Process and Cost of Resident Visa for Skilled Migrant Category
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.
Apply For NZ Visa
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Application Fee: The application fee for the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa is NZD $4,890. This fee covers the processing of your visa application. It’s important to note that the application fee is non-refundable, even if your application is not approved. Additionally, non-refundable immigration levies are included in the overall cost.
