The advice you need to set yourself up for success when immigrating to New Zealand.
New Zealand Wants You
Could it be possible that New Zealand wants you? The answer is “yes it is very possible”. New Zealand is actively seeking migrants in order to fill the skills shortage gaps in the country.
New Zealand is always looking for skilled workers, who have the expertise and passion to fit into the New Zealand workforce.
New Zealand wants you
The good news is that New Zealand is unique in that it needs to attract skilled migrants. This is actually to the point where the GDP of New Zealand would suffer badly, if it were not to find sufficient skilled migrants.
A rolling three year target is agreed. The amount of immigrants which New Zealand needs to attract is currently at 150,000. Should you fit the requirements, be assured that New Zealand wants you.
Who can apply?
You will need to meet the following criteria’s in order to be eligible for residence under the skilled migrant category.
• Be under 55 year of age
• Be healthy
• Be of good character
• Be an English speaker
In order to decide if you can apply, a points system is used. You will get points for your experience, age, employability in addition to your qualifications.
How do I score points?
If you meet the above criteria, then points can be awarded for the following:
• Skilled employment
• Qualifications
• Relevant work experience
• Age
• Family in New Zealand
• Your partners score
What are the skill shortages in New Zealand?
In order to see exactly what the skills shortages in New Zealand are, it is advisable that you check out the New Zealand skill shortages lists.
The New Zealand skill shortages lists are:
• The Long Term Skill Shortage List (LTSSL),
• The Immediate Skill Shortage List (ISSL) and
• The Canterbury Skill Shortage List (CSSL).
You can download the skill shortage lists from the various categories here.
Find if you qualify for to immigrate to New Zealand
Book a consultation call with Sarah Hewitt, our licensed advisor, and you’ll find out if you meet the requirements to move to New Zealand.
You’ll also discover how the application process works and what the costs and timelines are.
Our licensed advisor is registered with the Immigration Advisers Authority (IAA) of New Zealand, so you can rest assured that you’re getting advice you can trust.
- Published in New Zealand Immigration Advice
Why choose New Zealand?
Let’s face it; if you are looking to migrate to a new country to have a better life with your family, there is a whole world of countries to choose from. This begs the questions: why choose New Zealand?
Why choose New Zealand?
If you have never been to New Zealand and don’t know much about it asking the question: Why choose New Zealand? is a very fair question to ask.
The truth is that there are many fantastic elements about New Zealand that make it a top contender when it comes to choosing a country for immigration purposes.
Some of the best reasons to choose New Zealand
Here are some of the best reasons why families across the world have chosen New Zealand specifically as their number one country of choice:
• New Zealand is the perfect place to raise a family.
• The education system is one of the best in the world.
• It is a known fact that life is safer, simpler and more satisfying in New Zealand.
• The people are warm and friendly.
• It is an easy country to integrate into.
• The government is stable and secure.
• New Zealand is clean with lots of open air.
• There is a diverse range of country and city to choose from.
• There is an ideal work-life balance with plenty of public holidays.
• Life is calm and relatively stress free.
Do you think New Zealand would be a good fit for you and your family?
If you think that New Zealand may be a good fit for you and your family, then your very step in the immigration process would be to obtain a comprehensive assessment.
Starting at the beginning of the process and obtaining an assessment, will help you to determine right from the get-go if you in fact qualify or not.
It is best not to waste your time planning your move until you know for sure if you do in fact qualify.
Find if you qualify for to immigrate to New Zealand
Book a consultation call with Sarah Hewitt, our licensed advisor, and you’ll find out if you meet the requirements to move to New Zealand.
You’ll also discover how the application process works and what the costs and timelines are.
Our licensed advisor is registered with the Immigration Advisers Authority (IAA) of New Zealand, so you can rest assured that you’re getting advice you can trust.
- Published in New Zealand Immigration Advice
How Do I Move To New Zealand?
If you are one of the many people who have made the decision to move to New Zealand with your family, but don’t know where to start do not feel alarmed.
Many people make the decision to leave and are completely ready to make the big move, however they may wonder: how do I move to New Zealand?
What do I do? How do I move to New Zealand?
Today we are going to be answering all your questions with regard to the route forward.
What is the first step in the process?
The very first step in your emigration process should be to get assessed. The truth is that this is the first and most important step in the New Zealand emigration process.
Why do I need to get assessed?
Obtaining a comprehensive and formal assessment will be able to help you determine if you qualify for New Zealand emigration or not. Without this vital part of the process, you will not be able to proceed further.
What are my assessment options?
There are three main options when it comes to obtaining an assessment.
These include:
- Doing it yourself.
- Making use of a licensed immigration adviser.
- Making use of someone who isn’t licensed.
What is the difference between the three assessment options?
The DIY option: may seem appealing, however it can result in major mistakes being made. The truth is that one simple mistake can be the difference between success and failure.
Making use of a licensed immigration adviser: one of the main benefits of this option is that a licensed immigration adviser for New Zealand has the knowledge and expertise to advise and guide you best. Making use of a licensed immigration adviser can help to improve your chances of success.
Making use of an unlicensed immigration adviser: is not a good idea at all; don’t expect to receive any accurate advice or information.
What role does the New Zealand Immigration Points System play in your prospective immigration?
Any skilled migration for New Zealand residency will require you to take a points test. In fact, the point’s assessment is probably the most crucial aspect of your prospective New Zealand immigration.
Which visa option will be best for me?
There are many different visa options available. It is going to be within your best interest to explore each visa option carefully. The best way to do this is by making use of a licensed immigration adviser who will be able to help you in the process.
A licensed immigration adviser will be able to go through all of the visa options with you and help you find the best one to suit your individual needs and requirements.
Should I look at temporary routes to New Zealand?
Sometimes residency is best achieved through a process as opposed to a once-off application. In some circumstances obtaining a temporary work visa will help to enhance your chances of obtaining permanent residency.
Once again, it all depends on the individual and their individual situation and circumstances. It is once again highly suggested that you make use of a fully licensed New Zealand immigration adviser.
Find if you qualify for to immigrate to New Zealand
Book a consultation call our licensed advisor to find out if you meet the requirements to move to New Zealand.
You’ll also discover how the application process works and what the costs and timelines are.
Our advisors are registered with the Immigration Advisers Authority (IAA) of New Zealand, so you can rest assured that you’re getting advice you can trust.
- Published in FAQs - New Zealand Immigration, New Zealand Immigration Advice
Work Towards Residency In New Zealand
If you wish to become a permanent resident of New Zealand, the good news is that there are ways to work towards residency in New Zealand.
The best way to work towards residency in New Zealand is to apply for a visa under the work to residence category.
What is work towards residency in New Zealand?
If you have exceptional talent in a certain area such as culture or sports, you could apply to work in New Zealand under the work to residence category.
The fundamental goal behind the work towards residency category is that your skills should enhance the country’s reputation and provide a positive contribution to New Zealand.
What are the 4 temporary work visa options that can be used to work towards residency?
There are 4 distinct temporary work visa options:
1. Accredited Employers
2. Talent (Arts, Culture and Sports)
3. Long Term Skill Shortage List Work Policy
4. Religious workers
Please note that each option has a different set of requirements in conjunction with the general requirements applicants will need to meet.
What are the general requirements?
In addition to the set requirements for the specific work visa option which you choose, you will also need to meet the general requirements.
• Be 55 years of age or under.
• Have exceptional talent in a specific field.
• Be supported by a New Zealand organisation of national repute.
• Be sponsored by either an individual or the organisation supporting you.
What type of exceptional talent do I need?
Should you wish to be considered you will need to display the following:
• You will need to have an international reputation and record of excellence in your field.
• You will need to still be prominent in that field
• You will need to be able to enhance New Zealand’s participation and accomplishments in that field.
Find if you qualify for a New Zealand work visa
Book a consultation call to find out if you meet the requirements to apply for a work visa.
You’ll also discover how the application process works and what the costs and timelines are.
Our licensed advisors are registered with the Immigration Advisers Authority (IAA) of New Zealand, so you can rest assured that you’re getting advice you can trust.
- Published in New Zealand Immigration Advice, Working in New Zealand
Moving From South Africa To New Zealand
Many people choose to pack up all of their belongings and travel across the world, moving from South Africa to New Zealand. New Zealand offers South Africans a balanced, calm, safe and happy lifestyle. More and more South Africans are choosing New Zealand as their country of choice.
How does living in New Zealand compare to South Africa?
There are many differences between South and New Zealand. Firstly in New Zealand you will be able to walk around freely. You will not need to worry about crime. New Zealand is one of the safest countries in the world, which offers a free and calm lifestyle.
Purchasing a car in New Zealand is much easier. Registration and transfers can be done at a post office, normally open 7 days a week. Moving from South Africa to New Zealand may initially be difficult but you will soon learn to enjoy all the benefits.
Cost of living
The cost of living in New Zealand is comparable to many western style countries. Many people have found the cost of living in New Zealand higher than South Africa, while other people have found the cost of living to be lower or similar. The truth is that it all depends on your lifestyle, where you choose to live, as well as various other factors.
Children can be children in New Zealand
In New Zealand your children will be able to experience the joys and excitement of childhood without the added pressures of having to grow up too fast because of crime, finances or community disintegration. Moving from South Africa to New Zealand will allow your children to grow up in a very child friendly country.
Working in New Zealand
New Zealand offers an excellent work/life balance, which means you will always have time to spend with your family and children. New Zealand also has many public holidays, but parents have more rights than in South Africa. For example when a child is born both parents are allowed to take leave.
The weather
The weather in New Zealand is very much dependent on the area in New Zealand, which you live in. The north is sub-tropical with temperatures probably very near to what you’re used to in South Africa. New Zealand’s south is cooler but on the plus side you will get to experience snow.
In many places in New Zealand the weather is very similar to South Africa. For example if you choose to live in Auckland you may be in luck because the weather is very similar to that of Cape Town except it is more humid.
Healthcare
In South Africa if you do not have medical aid you are stuck making use of public health services. As many South Africans know this can be extremely problematic for many reasons. In New Zealand the health care system is very different.
New Zealand residents can choose to make use of private medical cover, however many of them do not feel the need to do so. Excellent health care is one of the many benefits you will experience, if you plan on moving from South Africa to New Zealand.
Getting around
Although both countries offer public transport, the South African public transport system is fairly unreliable. In New Zealand many people take public transport and find it to be very reliable and consistent. The public transport system in New Zealand is excellent.
It is very common to walk or take a bicycle to and from work in New Zealand. Although this can be done in South Africa, there are many risks associated with it. New Zealand in general offers a more peaceful and calmer lifestyle.
Find if you qualify to immigrate to New Zealand
Book a consultation call to find out if you meet the requirements to move to New Zealand.
You’ll also discover how the application process works and what the costs and timelines are.
Our licensed advisors are registered with the Immigration Advisers Authority (IAA) of New Zealand, so you can rest assured that you’re getting advice you can trust.
- Published in New Zealand Immigration Advice
The truth About Online Assessments For New Zealand
One of the most common questions that we get asked is: Why do I need to get a formal assessment with you? With all the free online assessments for New Zealand, why bother paying for one?
Today we would like to share with you the truth about free online assessments for New Zealand and our reasons why they are not the answer.
Where do people find online assessments for New Zealand?
The truth is that the majority of people who make use of online assessments find them from Google.
Let us state for the record:
We are in no way saying don’t use Google, don’t research the web and don’t join Facebook groups – but what we are saying is, treat it with a degree of cynicism.
The impact of Google
Ever had a heated discussion about a topic and someone whips out their cell phone and says the immortal words “let me Google it”.
What you must ask yourself is whether Google is always right? Depending on what site you read global warming is either a sham or the biggest threat to human survival.
What is an online assessment?
- More often than not a series of questions with yes or no answers- sadly the world is often not black and white – but gray.
- Few have detailed descriptions guiding you to answer the questions correctly and containing the more intricate parts of the immigration act.
- Often it is simply a marketing tool to lure you into a proper assessment, which is charged for – based on the premise we all find it hard to turn down something for free.
In short it is nothing more than a computer program, with an algorithm, that calculates your chances of qualifying from a written code. Emigration cannot be written in a code otherwise programmers would be granted the status of licensed agents.
Do online assessments for New Zealand work?
- The vast majority of applicants we have assessed, after they have done an online assessment for New Zealand, have unfortunately, received a different outcome.
- Computer programs don’t ask questions, the information you submit is accepted at face value. As above if this is wrong you will be basing your emigration on the incorrect answers thus costing you considerable money and time.
- Let’s take a skills assessment or NZQA , you enter a degree and years of experience and it gives you points:
- Did you upload your CV? , did the computer read it and validate the years of experience you are claiming?
- Did it advise you on the correct ANZSCO code – this is a common error.
- Did it look to see if your diploma or degree is recognised? Did it only allow you to score points for one qualification?
- Did it tell you the least amount of points you may be given or the highest?
- Did it recommend a process that helps mitigate financial loss to you?
- Is it updated every time there is a change in the skilled shortage lists?
- Did it leave no stone unturned in its efforts to qualify you?
Why we assess and why we charge?
We could use the old adage ‘there is no such thing as a free lunch’, and of course it is true. Our migration agents are highly trained professionals, they have undergone university studies in order to qualify to give you advice, and they continue to hone their skills with ongoing continuous professional development.
As with the vast majority of all us, they do not work for free. We could also say you get what you pay for.
- We charge because we want to ensure we give your migration the individual attention it deserves.
- We don’t want to spend a few minutes on it and then expect you to base a life changing decision on the results.
- We don’t want you to enter into a migration progress where you have not had all the risks to explained to you.
- We don’t want you to miss out on the chance to emigrate because every stone has not been left unturned.
Summary
We keep our assessment cost to a minimum (R1710) and further, if you proceed with a full application, we discount this cost by the R1710. We believe your migration journey needs to commence with a strong foundation, based on a licensed immigration agents written report and full attention to detail.
We also ask you to remember our service charges for full applications are amongst the most competitive in the industry, so your assessment is just one small part of the costs you will pay a migration agent.
Find if you qualify for to immigrate to New Zealand
Book a consultation call to find out if you meet the requirements to move to New Zealand.
You’ll also discover how the application process works and what the costs and timelines are.
Our licensed advisors are registered with the Immigration Advisers Authority (IAA) of New Zealand, so you can rest assured that you’re getting advice you can trust.
- Published in New Zealand Immigration Advice
Want to achieve your dream of Emigrating to New Zealand?
Contact our licensed migration agent Sarah Hewitt direct on sarah@intergate-emigration.com or by phoning her on 021 202 8200.
For those wondering if you really need to use Licensed Immigration Advisors, read on:
- Licensed Immigration Advisors know New Zealand’s visa system inside out. It’s their job to keep up to date with the latest policy changes – their on-going professional licensing requirements require them to do this. They have a wealth of insider knowledge about the system – make the most of it.
- They’re licensed with a regulatory body. Gaining their license means that they’ve completed a rigorous process to enter the industry – and on-going professional development is required to continue to renew this license each year. This means they work to a strict code of conduct and ethics which is enforceable – and that you and your interests are protected. It’s a guarantee that they’re working in your best interests.
- They can liaise with Immigration New Zealand and your employer on your behalf. Working with a Licensed Immigration Advisor means you don’t have to make lengthy phone calls. They can also ensure your application meets policy and has the best chance of a successful outcome.
- They can create an immigration plan with you. Licensed Immigration Advisors are like satnavs, there to guide you successfully through the complex twists and turns of New Zealand’s visa system. Licensed Immigration Advisors can work with you, understanding what your goals are, and what your timeline expectations are. They can then put a plan in place to help you achieve those.
- They can offer a different perspective on your immigration options. Licensed Immigration Advisors are nice people, who can offer you sound, honest feedback on what your options are and advice on the process. You may even get information that you hadn’t considered that puts a new spin on the direction you thought you wanted to take. Whatever happens, you’ll come away feeling wiser and more knowledgeable.
- They love paperwork. Let’s face it, piles of paperwork is no one’s idea of a good time – so let someone else who knows what they’re doing deal with it for you.
You can contact Licensed Advisor Sarah Hewitt direct on sarah@intergate-emigration.com or by phoning her on 021 202 8200.
- Published in New Zealand Immigration Advice
What To Do If You Want To Move To New Zealand
The emigration process to New Zealand has many components to it. It is very important to understand where to start and what to do. This can be the difference between success and failure.
What To Do If You Want To Move To New Zealand
Let’s start with the basics and we will move on from there.
Where do I start?
You need to know what to do if you want to move to New Zealand, and you will need to get it right from the start.
The best starting point in the emigration process is to get assessed. This will help you to establish your options for residence in New Zealand. Obtaining residence in New Zealand should always be the ultimate goal. By getting assessed you will know from the start if New Zealand is even an option for you or not.
Too many people end up spending vast amounts of time, energy and effort only to discover much later, that they do not in fact qualify. This can lead to huge financial losses and not to mention high levels of disappointment.
Which visa option will be best for me?
You need to know what to do if want to move to New Zealand, especially in terms of your visa options. There are many different visa options available. It is going to be within your best interest to explore each visa option carefully. The best way to do this is by making use of a licensed immigration adviser who will be able to help you in the process.
A licensed immigration adviser will be able to go through all of the visa options with you and help you find the best one to suit your individual needs and requirements.
Where can I get assessed?
Should you wish to make use of our assessment services, feel free to book your assessment here.
Should I look at temporary routes to New Zealand?
Sometimes residency is best achieved through a process as opposed to a once-off application. In some circumstances obtaining a temporary work visa will help to enhance your chances of obtaining permanent residency.
It all depends on the individual and their individual situation and circumstances. It is once again highly suggested that you make use of a fully licensed New Zealand immigration adviser. The truth is if you want to know what to do if want to move to New Zealand, then it is best to prospectively explore all options with the help with a professional emigration adviser.
Find if you qualify for to immigrate to New Zealand
Book a consultation call to find out if you meet the requirements to move to New Zealand.
You’ll also discover how the application process works and what the costs and timelines are.
Our licensed advisors are registered with the Immigration Advisers Authority (IAA) of New Zealand, so you can rest assured that you’re getting advice you can trust.
- Published in New Zealand Immigration Advice
Recent Changes to the New Zealand Emigration Process
There has been a lot of press, Facebook talk and, to be honest, misinformation regarding the recent changes to the New Zealand emigration process.
So below we give you the lowdown on what exactly this could mean for you and your plans:
The Expression of Interest
The 100 points required to make an Expression of Interest application has not changed. In reality, even if a person scored between 100 and 140 points, their Expression of Interest was not going to get selected unless they had a job offer.
Automatic selection of your Expression of Interest
From a level of 140 points, even without a job offer, applicants would previously have been selected and issued with an invitation to apply. Those scoring between 100 and 139 points with a job offer would also have been selected.
This has changed – applicants will now need 160 points to receive an invitation to apply. This applies whether you have a job offer or not.
Proof of English
All applicants apart from the below will now need an English language test:
- Citizenship of Canada, the Republic of Ireland, the United Kingdom or the United States of America, provided the applicant has spent at least five years in work or education in one or more of these countries or Australia or New Zealand; or
- A recognised qualification comparable to a New Zealand level 7 bachelor’s degree, gained in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the Republic of Ireland, the United Kingdom or the United States of America as a result of study undertaken for at least two academic years in one or more of those countries; or
- A recognised qualification comparable to a New Zealand qualification at level 8 or above, gained in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the Republic of Ireland, the United Kingdom or the United States of America as a result of study undertaken for at least one academic year in one or more of those countries.
Background
Without lurching into politics, the reality is that INZ want to keep a hold on the number of migrants that are obtaining residency via the skilled migrant scheme. One can also ascertain that INZ want to ensure that those who do obtain residency have a suitable position in place in which to work (and of course then pay taxes and contribute to the New Zealand economy).
This pressure has been brought about by the number of migrants securing residency in New Zealand. Further pressure is being applied by the labour government for work visas. When Minister of Immigration, Michael Woodhouse, was asked how many of the 209,000 work visas issued last year were for occupations on the Essential Skills in Demand list, the answer was around 8% only.
What difference has this made to your approach for New Zealand migration?
New Zealand need migrants and have many areas with skill shortages. This means New Zealand still need to attract foreigners to fill certain positions – and it still wants to.
As we have said time and again though, New Zealand want to attract the right sort of foreigners. Primarily this would be those on the Essential Skills in Demand list. This is the long term skilled shortage list and immediate skilled shortage list.
We have always advocated a step-by-step approach in our migration advice – one that gives you the facts, a clear way forward if one exists, one that explains the risks you may encounter and minimizes your financial risk. We are also very aware of the fact that our role is to remove as many obstacles as possible for you to secure employment in New Zealand.
Hopping on a plane to New Zealand and hoping for the best is not the way to go – it’s expensive and a bit like making a cake for the first time with no recipe to follow!
Sending out your CV to all and sundry rarely works either.
Immigrating to New Zealand is a process and as such you need to enter into it determined and with your eyes wide open.
In summary you should always follow the below steps:
- Get formally assessed by a licensed immigration agent. This will include your points score and migration pathway. It’s the least expensive and most important part of the migration process.
- Look at what formalities need to be taken care of, such as NZQA’s, professional or trade registrations and English language tests.
- Get a job support and migration pack from your licensed agent.
- Be prepared to go to New Zealand to job hunt for a few weeks at least – on the correct Look, Search and Decide visa (not a tourist one).
Find if you qualify for to immigrate to New Zealand
Book a consultation call to find out if you meet the requirements to move to New Zealand.
You’ll also discover how the application process works and what the costs and timelines are.
Our licensed advisors are registered with the Immigration Advisers Authority (IAA) of New Zealand, so you can rest assured that you’re getting advice you can trust.
- Published in New Zealand Immigration Advice, News, Your Visa Application