7 Reasons to move from South Africa to New Zealand
In the 2017/2018 financial year, more than 5,000 South Africans left for New Zealand. Our guess is that their reasons to move from South Africa to New Zealand, while unique to each person, shared some distinct similarities.
Today, we’ll discuss these similarities, which range from the countries sharing a similar culture to the high standard of education children receive in New Zealand.
1. New Zealand is familiar
South Africa and New Zealand are alike in many ways. The culture is similar, many values are shared, and both countries have good weather and a great love for the outdoors. New Zealand can also match South Africa when it comes to breathtaking scenery.
It also helps that English is spoken in New Zealand, so South Africans going over won’t have problems communicating with locals. It is much harder to adapt to life in a new country when you can’t speak the local language!
2. It is one of the safest countries in the world
No country is without crime, but New Zealand does much better than South Africa in safety indexes. For instance, in the 2022 Global Peace Index, New Zealand came in second after only Iceland.
In comparison South Africa slipped down one spot in 2018 to sit at number 125 out of 163 countries.
3. New Zealand’s economy is doing well
The South African economy advanced 1.1% year-on-year in the third quarter of 2018. In contrast, the New Zealand GDP grew 2.6% year-on-year in the same period.
This good growth, although lower than originally forecasted, stimulate the job market. New Zealand’s unemployment rate at the end of 2018 was only 4.3%, while South Africa was struggling with an unemployment rate of 27.1%.
4. Plenty of job opportunities
South Africans are known as hard workers and sought-after employees the world over. If you have the right skills, qualifications and experience, you are bound to find a job in New Zealand.
5. Access to excellent healthcare
New Zealand’s healthcare is among the best in the world. The public healthcare system ensures that all residents have access to free or heavily-subsidised hospital care. According to the OECD Better Life Index, New Zealanders have a life expectancy of 82 years, which is two years above the OECD average.
Please note: in order to access public healthcare, migrants must have New Zealand residency status.
6. Children get a world-class education
New Zealand consistently fares well in the OECD’s Better Life Index where the country’s education is scored on students’ literacy, math and science performance.
Parents also agree that New Zealand’s education standards are exceptional. Expats ranked New Zealand’s school quality at number 10 out of 31 countries in the latest Expat Explorer Survey. South Africa came in at number 21.
7. It’s not as expensive as you might think
While it’s true that New Zealand is not the cheapest place to live in the world, it’s not as expensive as many people think. In fact, the cost of living in New Zealand is dropping relative to many other countries.
In the 2018 Mercer Cost of Living Index, Auckland dropped to number 81 on the list while Wellington dropped to number 101. This makes it more affordable cities to live in than Berlin, at number 71, and London, at number 19.
Keep in mind that even though the cost of living might be more expensive than in South Africa, you get to live in a beautiful country with good public services. New Zealanders are also known for favouring a healthy work-life balance, so it’s safe to say that life will be good in the Land of the Long White Cloud.
Eager to explore your chances of working and living in New Zealand? Book your consultation call with our licensed advisor today!
- Published in New Zealand Immigration Advice
New Zealand Immigration Points Explained
If you’re reading this it means you have questions about New Zealand immigration points for skilled migration. We’re not surprised, really. Most people want to start by calculating their points, but few people understand how to do it.
Today, we’re going to break it down for you. We’ll explain:
- The purpose of the points system.
- Exactly what you get points for.
- Why you shouldn’t necessarily trust online immigration points calculators
The New Zealand immigration points system
The Skilled Migrant process includes four main steps:
- Determining your points score.
- Submitting an Expression of Interest.
- Receiving an Invitation to Apply.
- Applying for the Skilled Migrant visa.
You’ll only be able to submit an Expression of Interest if you score 100 points or more in your skills assessment. Then, once your Expression of Interest is in the pool, your points score will enable Immigration New Zealand (INZ) to decide whether or not you are a desirable candidate for a visa.
High points score = High desirability
Expressions of Interest are ranked using the points score. Those candidates with higher scores are seen as more desirable, as these candidates can offer New Zealand more. INZ will thus use the points scores to help them decide which candidates should get Invitations to Apply.
What do you get New Zealand immigration points for?
New Zealand immigration points are awarded for Age, Skilled Employment, Work Experience, and Qualifications in the following manner:
Age
- 30 points: 20-39 years
- 20 points: 40-44 years
- 10 points: 45-49 years
- 5 points: 50-55 years
Please note if you are older than 55 years of age you will not qualify.
Skilled employment
- 50 points: if you have an offer of skilled employment in New Zealand.
- 50 points: if you are currently employed in a skilled occupation in New Zealand.
Bonus points
- 10 points where you are:
- In an occupation in an area of absolute skills shortage, or
- Employed in work in a region outside Auckland
- 20 points if:
- Your income is more than twice the New Zealand median income.
- Your partner also has a skilled job or job offer.
Work experience in skilled employment
- 10 points: 2 years
- 20 points: 4 years
- 30 points: 6 years
- 40 points: 8 years
- 50 points: 10 years
Bonus points for work experience in New Zealand
- 10 points: 12 months or more
And if the work experience in an area of absolute skills shortage bonus points as follows:
- 10 points: 2 to 5 years
- 15 points: 6 or more years
Qualifications
- 40 points: recognised level 4-6 qualification (e.g. trade qualification, diploma) or Level 3 qualification on the List of Qualifications Exempt from Assessment.
- 50 points: recognised level 7 or 8 qualification (e.g. bachelor degree, bachelor degree with honours)
- 70 points: recognised level 9 or 10 post-graduate qualification (master’s degree, doctorate)
Bonus points for qualifications
- 10 points for either:
- Two years full-time study in New Zealand completing a recognised NZ bachelor degree.
- One year of full-time study in New Zealand completing a recognised NZ post-graduate qualification.
- 15 points: Two years of full-time study in New Zealand completing a recognised post-graduate NZ qualification.
- 10 points: Your partner holds a level 7-8 qualification.
- 20 points: Your partner holds a recognised post-graduate (level 9-10) qualification.
The danger of online calculators
We can’t discuss New Zealand immigration points without touching on online immigration points calculators.
Why is this?
Because these free online tools are often inaccurate, yet many people unfortunately pursue immigration based on the results of online assessments.
Here is the big issue with free online assessments:
More often than not it is a series of questions with ‘yes’ or ‘no’ answers. The problem with this is that emigration is a detailed and intricate environment. For example, you may have a qualification, but is it recognized in New Zealand? Online assessments will ask the former, but won’t determine the latter.
In other words, the results from free online assessments are no more than indicators of your eligibility. Your actual points score could, and most likely will, differ from the total you got online.
This is the only way to get an accurate immigration points score…
It is with a comprehensive assessment done by a licensed immigration adviser who knows the New Zealand immigration act and who can ask the right questions – not just the ‘yes’ and ‘no’ questions.
Any other approach is likely to lead to wasted effort and money early in the immigration process.
If you’d like to speak an advisor, you are welcome to book a consultation call.. Our licensed advisor can assess your eligibility, advise on your visa options, and guide you through your visa application.
- Published in Working in New Zealand, Your Visa Application
10 Best places to live in New Zealand
Unless you’ve been to a country, it’s hard to tell where you’d like to live. That’s why we list the best places to live in New Zealand below.
You’ll find 10 cities on our list, but these are in no particular order. To help you narrow it down, we share:
- The size of each city – because some of us prefer smaller cities over bigger ones.
- The climate – to know what to expect from the weather.
- What or who the city is perfect for – so you can see if it’ll be the right fit for you.
Let’s dive straight into the list.
1. Queenstown
- South Island
- Population: ±15,800 (June 2018)
- Climate: Long, warm days in summer with cold winters and frequent snowfall.
- Perfect for: Thrill seekers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Queenstown is known as New Zealand’s adventure capital. You can go hiking or biking in the summer and hit the slopes for snowboarding or skiing in the winter. The city and surrounds also offer opportunities for skydiving, jet boating, white-water rafting, canyon swinging, zip lining, paragliding, and bungee jumping.
Queenstown keeps it balanced though with world-class restaurants, a cosmopolitan art scene, and exceptional vineyards. You’ll always find something to do!
2. Wellington
- North Island
- Population: ±418,000 (June 2018)
- Climate: Generally moderate temperatures, but windy all year round with high rainfall.
- Perfect for: City dwellers who still prefer a slower lifestyle.
Wellington is New Zealand’s capital and one of the country’s most popular places to live. It offers a high quality of life, it’s easy to get around thanks to a great public transport system, and there is more than enough to do. Wellington boasts some of the best cafes, bars, and restaurants New Zealand has to offer as well as a buzzing nightlife and a lively music scene. Those who love the outdoors can head to the botanic gardens or one of the beaches and bays for walks and water sports.
It’s interesting to note that Wellington is not New Zealand’s most populated city, despite being the capital. In fact, it’s one of the smaller capital cities in the world, meaning it offers a much more relaxed lifestyle than most cities.
3. Auckland
- North Island
- Population: ±1,628,900 (June 2018)
- Climate: Subtropical with warm humid summers and mild damp winters. Sunniest of New Zealand’s main centers and warmest.
- Perfect for: Professionals keen to advance their career.
Auckland is the number one choice for most immigrants, seeing as it’s widely considered to be New Zealand’s economic capital. The city offers plenty of job opportunities, career progression can happen quickly, and salaries are some of the highest in New Zealand. Of course this means the cost of living is slightly higher than in other parts of the country, but Auckland is still a great place to live.
There is also plenty to do in Auckland! The city has galleries and museums, top-class restaurants, parks and harbours, beaches and parks, and an extensive calendar of cultural events throughout the year.
You can really make the most of your evenings and weekends.
4. Napier
- North Island
- Population: ±63,900 (June 2018)
- Climate: Generally dry, warm climate.
- Perfect for: Wine and design connoisseurs.
Napier is a coastal town on New Zealand’s Hawkes Bay region, an area that’s renowned for producing excellent wines. The city itself is especially known for its art deco landmarks, but it’s also famed for its beautiful coastline, fabulous bars and restaurants, and the tree-lined waterfront promenade.
The cost of living in Napier is much lower than in New Zealand’s bigger cities, making it an attractive option for immigrants. The city also has the added advantage of enjoying plenty of sunshine all year round, which makes for both pleasant summers and winters.
5. Christchurch
- South Island
- Population: ±404,500 (June 2018)
- Climate: Mild summers and cool winters. Regular moderate rainfalls. Common for temperatures to drop below freezing point. Snowfalls occur on average three times per year.
- Perfect for: Living life in a green city.
Christchurch is known as the Garden City due to its abundance of beautiful parks and pretty gardens. Of course Christchurch is also known for the devastating earthquakes of 2010 and 2011, and the massive rebuilding initiatives since. It’s the latter which is said to have created the incredible sense of community you’ll find in Christchurch.
Christchurch is heavily influenced by Maori culture and has a massive English community. It is also a city with plenty to see and do, from markets and festivals to restaurants and cafes. While Christchurch is not on the coast, some of New Zealand’s most beautiful beaches are within driving distance.
6. Rotorua
- North Island
- Population: ±59,500 (June 2018)
- Climate: Mild temperate climate. Less wind than in many other places in New Zealand. Temperatures can drop below freezing point in winter.
- Perfect for: Being close to all the best parts of New Zealand.
Rotorua is a tourist hot-spot and an all-year-round destination thanks to its mild climate. It’s never too hold or too cold. Another reason for Rotorua’s popularity is its central location on the North Island. You’ll get to Auckland, Napier, the Coromandel Peninsula, Mt Maunganui, and Mt Ruapehu in just under three hours from Napier.
The icing on the cake? The fact that Rotorua is one of New Zealand’s most affordable cities to live in.
7. Tauranga
- North Island
- Population: ±141,600 (June 2018)
- Climate: Subtropical climate with high humidity.
- Perfect for: Enjoying that holiday feeling all year round.
Tauranga is a stunning waterfront city and one of New Zealand’s most popular holiday destinations. The city has stunning beaches, a vibrant nightlife, and it’s within driving distance of places such as Taupo, Rotorua, and the Coromandel Peninsula.
Tauranga is also a busy port city, creating plenty of job opportunities. Despite the thriving economy, Tauranga is still reasonably affordable to live in.
8. New Plymouth
- North Island
- Population: ±58,300 (June 2018)
- Climate: Moist, temperate climate; Mild winters.
- Perfect for: Art and culture lovers.
New Plymouth, in the Taranaki region, has one of New Zealand’s best art scenes. There are lots of magnificent galleries and the city has a bohemian feel to it.
Many residents choose to walk or cycle to work, as commutes tend to be short. As a happy consequence you’re unlikely to encounter the dread of being stuck in traffic in New Plymouth. This alone is enough to convince some to make their home here!
It should also be mentioned that Lonely Planet voted Mount Taranaki as one of their ‘Must Visit’ destinations of 2017. The region has breathtaking views, world-class surfing conditions, black sand beaches, and – of course – the majestic Mount Taranaki.
9. Dunedin
- South Island
- Population: ±122,000 (June 2018)
- Climate: Temperate climate with mild summers and cool winters, although snowfall is common. Relatively low rainfall in comparison to many of New Zealand’s other cities.
- Perfect for: Music lovers and creatives.
Dunedin has Scottish heritage and Scottish influences are easily spotted in the city’s architecture. It’s fitting that Dunedin is home New Zealand’s only castle. Look up at the misty hills and you might even think you are in Scotland.
Dunedin is also distinctly New Zealand though with a vibrant music scene and a creative vibe. Venture a bit further out to the peninsula and you’ll find rare and unique wildlife.
Here’s something you might know about Dunedin – the city is extremely hilly, so much so that you’ll find the second steepest street in the world in Dunedin (pictured above)!
10. Hamilton
- North Island
- Population: ±203,100 (June 2018)
- Weather: Highly moderate temperatures, but with high humidity. Warm summers and cool and wet winters.
- Perfect for: Being close to all the best parts of New Zealand.
Hamilton is set on the banks of the Waikato River and only 90 minutes from Auckland. However, the cost of living in Hamilton is much more affordable than in Auckland. Just like Rotorua, Hamilton is centrally located, which means you’re never too far from somewhere to go or something to see. In fact, the two cities are close to each other. Also within driving distance of Hamilton are Raglan, New Zealand’s surfing capital, Taupo, and the world-famous Waitomo Caves.
- Published in Family Immigration, Life in New Zealand
What is the New Zealand Expression of Interest?
There are many parts to Skilled Migrant visa application. One of these parts is the New Zealand Expression of Interest. Continue reading to find out what it is and where it fits into the process.
What is the Expression of Interest?
The Expression of Interest is the manner in which an applicant indicates their interest in applying for a Skilled Migrant visa.
What is the New Zealand Expression of Interest made up of?
Your EOI’s purpose is to indicate your suitability for a Skilled Migrant visa to INZ. For this reason, your EOI will include information relating to your:
- Health
- Character
- Age
- English language ability
Your EOI will also include information on the factors that’ll earn you points on your assessment.
Where does the EOI fit into the Skilled Migrant application process?
The EOI is the third step in your Skilled Migrant visa application:
Step 1:
The first step is making sure that you meet the basic requirements:
- You’re 55 or younger.
- You’re of good health.
- You meet New Zealand’s character requirements.
- You meet the English language standards for the Skilled Migrant visa.
Step 2:
The second step is doing a points-based assessment. You’ll have to score 100 points or more to move ahead with the application process.
Step 3:
If you’ve scored enough points, you’ll now submit your Expression of Interest.
Step 4:
Invitation to Apply, if you’re EOI was successful.
What happens after the EOI is submitted?
One of two things can happen once you’ve submitted your EOI:
- Your score is 160 or more: Your EOI is accepted and you receive an Invitation to Apply for a Skilled Migrant visa.
- Your score between 100 and 159 points: Your EOI is accepted, but you’ll have secure a job offer in order to receive an Invitation to Apply.
Of course, if your EOI does not meet the criteria, it won’t be accepted and you won’t receive an Invitation to Apply. In this case, you’ll have to consider other visa options that allow you to work in New Zealand.
Are there fees involved in the EOI?
Submitting an Expression of Interest does incur a fee from Immigration New Zealand. You can view the tariffs here. Keep in mind also that registered immigration advisors may charge you an additional fee to submit your EOI.
How long does my EOI stay in the pool?
An EOI is valid for 6 months. If you have not been selected from the pool of applicants in this time then you will need to reapply.
Do you have more questions?
Please feel free to contact us should you have any other questions about the New Zealand Expression of Interest. You can either call us on +27 (0) 11 123 4274 or +27 (0) 21 202 8200 or book a consultation call.
- Published in Working in New Zealand, Your Visa Application
The benefits of emigration to New Zealand
When naming the benefits of emigration to New Zealand, you quickly have a long list!
There almost seems to be no downside to living in the Land of the Long Cloud. It’s safe, it’s friendly and it’s beautiful.
That’s just the start though. Let’s explore the reasons that would motivate any family to immigrate to New Zealand:
Better work-life balance
New Zealanders believe that ‘life is for living’. The proof of this can be found in the fact that New Zealand ranked at the number 2 spot for work-life balance in the 2018 Expat Explorer Survey.
What this means for you is a more relaxed lifestyle with less unnecessary stress. You’ll have time to explore all that New Zealand has to offer and have the opportunity to spend quality time with your family on a daily basis.
Stunning scenery everywhere you look
It’s impossible to discuss the benefits of emigration to New Zealand without mentioning the natural scenery. In New Zealand you can find lush forests, towering mountains, unspoilt beaches, and crystal-clear lakes. The scenes are straight from a postcard!
Friendly people
New Zealanders are renowned for being outgoing and friendly. Many expats are surprised to still find people greeting you on the street, which is a delightful change from just about anywhere else in the world.
One of the safest places in the world
In fact, New Zealand is the second safest country in the world. New Zealand ranked at number 2 in the 2022 Global Peace Index. This spot puts it ahead of countries such as Austria, Portugal and Denmark, which came in at numbers 3 to 5. The number one spot went to Iceland for the 10th year running.
The least corrupt country in the world
New Zealand was ranked first on the 2017 Corruption Perceptions Index. This index ranks 180 countries and territories by their perceived levels of public sector corruption according to experts and business people. A scale of 0 to 100 is used, where 0 is highly corrupt and 100 is very clean. New Zealand managed to achieve a score of 89.
World-class education for children
Your children will receive a fantastic education in New Zealand. Here students enjoy focused, personal attention from teachers, with learning being a balance of practical and theoretical learning.
Classrooms are equipped with computers, internet and other technology. Schools also have plenty of room for outdoor play and sport. Cultural activities are also catered for.
In 2015, the OECD’s Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) reviewed the reading ability, maths skills and science levels of school children from around the world. The average student in New Zealand scored 506 in reading literacy, maths and sciences, which was above the OECD average of 486.
Superior standards of living
New Zealand cities consistently scores high in Mercer’s annual Quality of Living Survey. In 2018, Auckland and Wellington were the 3rd and 15th best cities in the worlds for quality of living.
New Zealand’s performance is attributed mainly to its natural environment and great climate, stable political and social environment, and good medical and health services.
Second-best global destination for expats
New Zealand continues to rank high on global indexes. This time it’s the 2018 Expat Explorer Survey where New Zealand achieved the second spot on the league table. This means New Zealand is the second best country in the world for expats – as voted by expats.
Expats are quizzed on their experiences in their new country using three themes – experience, economics and family. Experience includes criteria such as healthcare and integration, while economics and family respectively includes criteria such as personal finances and job security, and social life and school quality.
Children have the freedom to be children
Children can enjoy the great outdoors, explore to their heart’s content and walk to school in New Zealand. This is one of the greatest benefits about emigration to New Zealand!
Here’s is Sam and Katy Smith’s story, who chose to raise their children in New Zealand:
Ready to experience the benefits of emigration to New Zealand for yourself?
Book a consultation call with our licensed advisor! You’ll get a short questionnaire and submit critical documents that’ll enable our advisor to assess your visa eligibility. Once the assessment is done, you’ll speak with our advisor to discuss your visa options and the best way forward.
- Published in Life in New Zealand, New Zealand Immigration Advice
New Zealand looking to recruit 400 overseas teachers in 2019
The New Zealand Government has set themselves a goal for the start of 2019 – to recruit 400 teachers from overseas to fill shortages in schools.
Why has the Government set themselves this goal?
New Zealand is struggling with severe teacher shortages, hence the goal set for 2019.
These shortages, as reported in the New Zealand Herald, are due to ‘a slump in domestic teacher trainees, exacerbated in Auckland by high housing costs which are driving many teachers out of the city.’
School principals are welcoming the initiative, but some will keep a keen eye on developments, as not everyone is confident that recruiting from overseas will be enough to fill all the gaps.
Teachers required across the board
The Government wants to recruit both primary and secondary school teachers, as teachers are in desperate need at all levels. The focus is not only on attracting overseas-trained teachers, but also on bringing New Zealand teachers home.
Eligible teachers may receive an Overseas Relocation Grant
New Zealand has established an Overseas Relocation Grant (ORG) that supports teachers with the costs of relocating to New Zealand. Nearly 200 teachers have already been approved for an ORG.
How does the ORG work?
The ORG was established to assist teachers who commence teaching in New Zealand from 13 December 2017 to 30 June 2019.
The New Zealand government approves a maximum of 100 grants per financial year. This means 100 grants for the period 13 December 2017 to 30 June 2018, and a further 100 grants from 1 July 2018 to 30 June 2019.
The ORG will:
- Reimburse actual and reasonable expenses up to a minimum of NZ$7,000 for each New Zealand-trained teacher and up to a maximum of NZ$5,000 for each overseas-trained teacher.
- Be non-taxable. This has been confirmed by Inland Revenue.
Who are eligible?
To be eligible for the Overseas Relocation Grant, you’ll have to meet the following criteria:
- Be registered and certified by the Education Council of New Zealand.
- Be employed in a full-time position that is either permanent or fixed term (of at least 12 months).
- Has never received an ORG or has received an ORG only once in a 5-year period.
- Did not teach in New Zealand between 13 December 2016 and 12 December 2017.
- Commenced employment on or after 13 December 2017, and up to 30 June 2019.
- Is employed to teach in a state or state-integrated school.
Payment criteria
To receive payment, you must do the following:
- Apply for the grant within three months of commencing employment. The school must provide evidence of this. The Government will consider applications received after three months on a case-by-case basis.
- Provide proof of expenditure of all actual and reasonable relocation costs. The specific amount of the grant will be based on this evidence.
Once all the requirement is met, 50% of the grant will be deposited into the nominated account after 10 weeks of teaching. The final 50% is deposited after 30 weeks of teaching.
Read more about the grant here.
Take the first step
If you are a teacher and you’d like to take advantage of this opportunity, the first step is finding out if you qualify for emigration to New Zealand.
Ready? Book a consultation call with our licensed advisor. You’ll not only find out if you’re eligible to teach in New Zealand, you’ll also discover your visa options, how the application process, and the costs involved.
- Published in News, Working in New Zealand
Taking Pets To New Zealand
Do you have a beloved family pet that you can’t imagine leaving behind when you emigrate? Then you’ll be happy to know that taking pets to New Zealand is possible.
The most important requirement to meet to directly import your cat or dog is to be from an approved country.
There is much more to know though. Below we’ll cover it all and give you links to detailed information:
- Approved countries
- The requirements
The costs involved - Quarantine
- Using a professional pet importer
Approved countries
At the start of this article that pets must come from approved countries. But what countries are approved and what does ‘approved’ mean?
To appear on New Zealand’s approved list of countries for pet import, a country has to be rabies free or rabies controlled. These countries are divided into three categories to indicate the permit, post-arrival inspection and quarantine requirements for each.
- Category 1: Australia and Norfolk Island. If you’re importing your pet from here, a permit and quarantine stay are not required and neither are post-arrival inspections in certain cases.
- Category 2 and 3: Permits are required if importing your pet from a category 2 or 3 country. Post-arrival inspections are also required, as is quarantine.
Should the country you’re importing from not appear on any of these lists, your pet won’t be allowed into New Zealand until it has spent 6 months in an approved country and you can provide a vet certificate.
You can download a document with the breakdown of all approved countries here.
The requirements
New Zealand’s Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) has published a step-by-step process for importing cats and dogs. This article includes a summary of the requirements, which is as follows:
- Ensure your cat or dog is eligible for import into New Zealand. Checking if you’re from an approved country is the best place to start.
- Ensure your dog is not a prohibited breed or type.
- Note the restrictions around hybrid breeds.
- Book an MPI-approved quarantine facility. This applies to all cats and dogs, except those from Australia.
- Apply for a permit to import from the MPI at least 20 working days before you’ll need the permit. Again, this does not apply to cats and dogs from Australia.
- Ensure all of the import requirements have been met.
- Notify an official veterinarian in New Zealand:
- At least 5 working days before arrival for cats and dogs from Australia.
- At least 72 hours before arrival for cats and dogs from all other approved countries.
- Declare any medication your animal is taking.
You can get the complete step-by-step process on the MPI website. If you want to import a pet that’s not a dog or cat, read this.
The costs involved
Taking pets to New Zealand is not necessarily cheap. You’ll have to pay for permits, inspections, and other costs as needed, for example quarantine fees.
The MPI lists some fees and charges you can expect to pay here. Don’t forget transport costs!
Quarantine
As explained, pets from Australia don’t have to stay in quarantine. Pets from all other approved countries have to stay in quarantine for a minimum of 10 days.
Please note that all cats and dogs must land in Auckland or Christchurch first. All other cats and dogs must be transferred to a quarantine facility.
Using a professional pet importer
The best piece of advice we can give you is to use a professional pet importer to get your pet to New Zealand successfully and safely.
In fact, most airline require that you use one when taking pets to New Zealand to ensure you’ve followed all the rules.
Professional pet exporters offers a wide range of services like arranging test, treatments, flights, permits, shipping crates and taking care of other requirements.
You can start your search for professional pet importers by looking at Global Paws, PETPort, and PetRelocation.
Please note: Intergate Emigration has not dealt with any of these providers. As such, this recommendation is not an official endorsement or guarantee of the services provided.
In summary…
If you’re bringing a cat or dog from Australia, you don’t need a permit. However, you do need a permit if your pet is coming from an approved country.
When you come from any other country, your pet will only be able allowed into New Zealand after it has spent 6 months in an approved country.
To get through all the requirements without a hitch and get your furry family member into New Zealand safely, strongly consider using a professional pet importer.
For any other immigration advice, please do not hesitate to contact us.
- Published in Family Immigration, Tips for Your Move to New Zealand
Changes to post-study work rights for international students
New Zealand has announced a range of changes to the post-study work rights for international students.
These changes have been made for a number of reasons. Most significant, is New Zealand’s desire to reduce student exploitation and to encourage study in all regions.
The changes also support the government’s broader plans for a high-quality international system in order to generate educational, economic, social and cultural benefits to New Zealand.
What are the changes?
The most significant change to the post-study work rights for international students is the removal of post-study work visas to be sponsored by a specific employer.
Other changes include:
- One-year post-study open work visa: For students studying Level 4 – 6 and non-degree Level 7 qualifications. Graduate Diploma graduates who are working towards registration with a professional or trade body gets an additional year.
- Two-year post-study open work visa: For students studying Level 4 – 6 and non-degree Level 7 qualifications outside Auckland. This is provided the study is completed by December 2021. At this point, the post-study work rights revert to a one-year post-study open work visa for students studying Level 4 – 6 and non-degree Level 7 qualifications. Graduate Diploma graduates who are working towards registration with a professional or trade body again gets an additional year.
- Three-year post-study open work visa: For degree Level 7 or above qualifications.
- International students studying Level 8 qualifications must be in an area specified on the Long Term Skills Shortage List in order for their partner to be eligible for an open work visa, and in turn the couples’ dependent children to be eligible for fee-free domestic schooling.
- A 3-year, time-limited incentive to study outside of Auckland.
What will the effects of the changes be?
On the positive side, the New Zealand government hopes that the post-study work rights changes will reduce the exploitation of students by unscrupulous employers, education providers, and agents.
The changes will hopefully also have a positive effect on New Zealand by:
- Attracting international students studying at higher levels.
- Contributing the skills and qualifications New Zealand needs;
- Supporting the government’s wider economic goal of growing the regions; and
- Ensuring a high-quality international education sector.
However, it has been estimated that first-time student visas will see a drop in the range of 1200 to 600. Based on the desire to attract students studying at higher levels, though, this could be a knock New Zealand is willing to take.
When are the changes coming into effect?
The changes to the post-study work rights will come into effect on 26 November 2018. The changes will not affect:
- Current post-study work visa holders;
- Current students who are undertaking a qualification that, once completed, will meet the current qualification requirements as set out in current immigration settings.
Questions? Call us
If you have any questions on the post-study work rights, please do not hesitate to contact us. You Our advisors have all the answers to your questions about student visas and their requirements.
- Published in News, Working in New Zealand
The Accredited Employer Work Visa
The Accredited Employer Work Visa is officially known as the Talent (Accredit Employer) Work Visa.
This visa enables you to work in New Zealand for an accredited employer who offers you work and is valid for up to 30 months.
What does ‘accredited employer’ mean?
An ‘accredited employer’ is a New Zealand employer who:
- Needs skilled or talented workers from overseas; and
- Has been pre-approved by Immigration New Zealand to hire foreigners.
It’s a win-win situation
Once accredited, the employer doesn’t have to provide supporting information for each and every visa application. This simplifies the process of employing a foreigner significantly.
You also benefit, because the employer actively seeks migrants. Not only that, the employer also understands the intricacies and timelines of immigration. You’ll have much less convincing to do.
Talent (Accredited Employer) Work Visa requirements
The first step to working for an accredited employer is having the skills and qualifications the company needs. Then you’ll also have to meet the requirements for this visa, as set out by Immigration New Zealand.
The main requirements are that you:
- Must be the 55 or younger.
- Have a job offer from an accredited employer, which has to be for:
- Full-time work; and
- More than 2 years; and
- You must earn at least NZD79,560 a year (before tax).
- Work in the specific occupation and for the specific accredited employer detailed in the job offer that was the basis of your work visa application.
- Must have full provisional registration, if it’s needed to work in your occupation in New Zealand.
Is there an accredited employers list?
Yes, there is an accredited employers list for New Zealand. It can be found on Immigration New Zealand’s website. You can either search by industry sector or simply scroll through the list to find an employer.
What if my employer loses their accredited status?
If your employer loses their accredited status after you’ve received your work visa, you can either:
- Work for another accredited employer; or
- Apply for a variation of conditions. If approved, this would allow you to work for a company that is not an accredited employer. The main criteria here is that you’d have to earn at least NZD55,000 a year before tax.
Do I qualify for permanent residence on the Accredited Employer Work Visa?
If you held an Accredited Employer Work visa or had an active application for an Accredited Employer Work visa on or before 7 October 2019, you are eligible to apply for a Permanent Resident Visa.
Unfortunately, the legislation was changed in 2019 so that the Accredited Employer Work Visa is no longer a pathway to residence. This change took effect on 7 October 2019.
Need advice on the Accredit Employer Work Visa?
If you’d like us to advise you on the Accredited Employer Work Visa, you’re welcome to book a consultation call. Our advisors can also tell you more about the emigration process and how we can help you with any visa applications.
- Published in Working in New Zealand
Do you want to study in New Zealand?
When you choose to study in New Zealand, you’re guaranteed a world-class education. Your surroundings can’t be beat either. New Zealand is considered to be one of the most beautiful countries in the world.
It’s no surprise more than 60 000 international students chose to further their education in New Zealand in 2017.
More than 500 learning institutions
New Zealand has 8 universities, all of which are in the top 3% of the world.
New Zealand also has Institutes of Technologies and Polytechnics, Private Training Establishments and English language schools.
Qualifications are offered at every level – certificates, diplomas, graduate and post-graduate degrees.
Universities
New Zealand universities offer a broad range of subjects for undergraduates, as well as Masters and Doctoral degrees in commerce, science, and the humanities. Some universities also offer degrees in specialist fields such as medicine and engineering.
You’ll find that many New Zealand universities have more than one campus, often in different cities too.
Institutes of Technologies and Polytechnics (ITPs)
Institutes of Technologies and Polytechnics, or ITPs as they’re commonly known, offer professional and vocational education and training. While the emphasis is on practical experience and application to work situations, an ITP degree has equal status with a university degree.
Many of New Zealand’s 16 ITPs also offer English Language courses and post-graduate options, including up to doctoral level.
Private Training Institutions and English language schools
New Zealand has about 550 registered Private Training Establishments (PTEs). PTE courses are generally specific to English language learning or niche occupations such as travel and tourism, design, and ICT.
Most PTEs provide certificate and diploma level qualifications, but some also offer Bachelor and Masters degrees.
You’re guaranteed a quality education
New Zealand’s education standards are high and regulated with strong quality assurance systems:
- Universities New Zealand (UNZ): UNZ is responsible for monitoring and maintaining standards at universities and approving qualifications.
- New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA): NZQA monitor education standards at ITPs and TEPs.
This approach has paid off, as New Zealand universities often rank among the best in the world. In 2018, eight top universities in New Zealand are included among the world’s best in the QS World University Rankings. Five of these universities are in the global top 300.
New Zealand has also made sure that a New Zealand qualification is recognized by schools and universities world-wide, by participating in the Lisbon Recognition Convention and other inter-governmental agreements.
New Zealand takes care of its international students
When you study in New Zealand, you are protected by a Code of Practice. This Code sets the standards every institution must meet in supporting its international students.
You’ll also get support in the form of advice and guidance from live-in wardens at residences and hostels. All institutions hosting international students has staff dedicated to ensuring your time in New Zealand is successful and stress free.
Visas to study
You won’t require a student visa in all instances:
- Is your course three months or less? You’ll only need a visitor visa.
- Are you planning on studying full time for more than three months? You’ll need a student visa.
New Zealand student visa
The New Zealand student visa allows for a maximum stay of up to four years. To apply for a visa, you must have been offered a place at an appropriate New Zealand education provider. You must also be able to prove that you can support yourself financially for the duration of your course.
Please go to our student visa page for the full details and all requirements.
Partners and children are welcome
Your spouse or life partner and dependent children can join you in New Zealand while you study.
Partners can apply for a Partner of a Student Visitor visa, while dependent children can apply for a Child of a Student Visitor visa.
When granted, these visas will be valid for as long as your student visa. No other activities, apart from three months of studying, is possible though. If your partner or children would like to study for longer, they’d have to apply for student visas. Similarly, your partner would have to apply for another visa if they’d like to work.
How much does it cost to study in New Zealand?
Just like elsewhere in the world, fees vary depending on the course and the institution. The cost of living is similar to other OECD countries. As discussed, international students have to prove the financial means to support themselves for the duration of the course. For this reason, let’s take a look at the fees you can expect to pay, as well as New Zealand living costs:
Fees
The New Zealand Education Department gives the following costs to guide you:
Diplomas and certificates:
- Engineering: NZ$18,500 for a two-year diploma.
- Computing: NZ$12,425 for a one-term certificate.
Bachelor’s Degree:
Fees range from about NZ$22,000 to NZ$32,000. Subjects such medicine and veterinary science have higher fees.
Postgraduate Degree:
You can expect to pay between NZ$26,000 to NZ$37,000 for postgraduate degrees. Again, subjects such as medicine and veterinary science have higher fees.
PhDs:
International PhD students pay the same as New Zealand PhD students, which is about NZ$6,500 to NZ$9,000 per year for most subjects.
English Language Courses:
The fees for English Language courses range from NZ$300 per week for a general course to NZ$5,100 for a Cambridge English exam course of 12 weeks.
Important to note:
Students with domestic status, i.e. citizens and holders of resident visas, have their fees subsidized by the government. These students contribute about 30% of the cost of their course.
Living costs
Your living costs will depend on your lifestyle as well as on where you live in New Zealand.
With that said, the New Zealand Education Department shares the following estimated living costs recommended by universities:
- Victoria University: NZ$18,000 – NZ$27,000 per year.
- University of Auckland: NZ$20,000 – NZ$25,000 per year.
- University of Otago: NZ$15,000 – NZ$17,000 per year.
- Massey University: NZ$15,000 – NZ$17,000 each year.
Can you work while studying?
The New Zealand student visa allows you to work for up to 20 hours per week during terms and full-time during holidays. This could help you offset living costs and gain New Zealand work experience.
Note there are no restrictions for PhD and Masters research students.
Working in New Zealand after studying
New Zealand offers a post-study work pathway to international students with a New Zealand qualification. This pathway lets you find a job in New Zealand and gain work experience. It’s an attractive pathway for many students, as it could make it easier to apply for residence.
The pathway is a two-part process:
- Post-study work visa (Open): This visa gives you 12 months to find a job that’s relevant to your studies.
- Post-study work visa (Employer Assisted): Once you have found a job, this visa lets you work in that specific job. You’ll be allowed to work for two years.
Read more about these visas here.
Need help with a student visa?
If it’s your goal to study in New Zealand, let us help you apply for a student visa. The first step is doing an immigration assessment to see if you do qualify for this visa. If you do, our team will guide you through the emigration process from start to finish.
- Published in New Zealand Immigration Advice