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How does the points system work in New Zealand?
One of the questions our advisers get asked most often is “How does the points system work in New Zealand?”
There’s good reason for this – your points score determine whether or not you’re eligible for a New Zealand visa. This means people want to understand the points system and find out if they score enough points.
To help you also understand the points system, we’re going to cover all the most basic parts today.
Let’s start at the beginning.
What is the New Zealand points system?
The New Zealand points system is a pivotal part of skilled migrant applications. It’s designed to allow the ranking of Expressions of Interest which enables Immigration New Zealand to extend invitations to apply to overseas applicants who have the most to offer to New Zealand.
Points are awarded under five categories:
- Age.
- Skilled employment.
- Relevant work experience.
- Qualifications.
- Your partner’s score.
The minimum points required for skilled immigration to New Zealand is 100. If you score less than 100 points, you won’t be able to lodge an Expression of Interest under the skilled migrant category.
How does Immigration New Zealand award points?
As discussed above, Immigration New Zealand award points under five categories. Below we’ll set out the points awarded under each category of the point system plus indicate where bonus points are awarded.
1. 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 you will not qualify.
2. 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.
Skilled employment means employment for which you need specialist, technical or management expertise as well as relevant qualifications and/or work experience to do. It may also be that a minimum pay threshold applies.
Under the Skilled Migrant Category, you can claim points for skilled employment based on a job you’re currently in, or a job offer you have received.
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.
3. Relevant work experience
- 10 points: 2 years
- 20 points: 4 years
- 30 points: 6 years
- 40 points: 8 years
- 50 points: 10 years
Bonus points:
- 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
4. 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)
A recognised qualification is one that’s recognised based on:
- An assessment by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority of the level it occupies on the New Zealand Qualifications Framework (NZQF).
- The level it occupies on the NZQF as set out in the ‘List of Qualifications Exempt from Assessment’.
- The level it occupies on the NZQF based on the applicant’s occupational registration in New Zealand (if that registration involves an assessment of comparability with a qualification on the ‘List of Qualifications Exempt from Assessment’)
Bonus points:
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.
5. Your partner’s score
- 10 points: Your partner holds a level 7-8 qualification.
- 20 points: Your partner holds a recognised post-graduate (level 9-10) qualification.
What does your points score tell you?
Your skilled migrant points score not only acts as an indicator to Immigration New Zealand. Your points score also sets out your migration pathway. It does this by revealing three things:
- If you qualify for a skilled migrant visa.
- If you do not qualify, what other routes you may pursue.
- The processes you must follow with your application.
Please keep in mind though that eligibility for a skilled migrant visa does not solely depend on your points score. In addition to achieving the necessary points, you must also meet certain basic criteria such being in good health and of good character.
A word of warning
You’ll find many free tools online that offer to help you calculate your skilled migrant points score.
Tread carefully though! The New Zealand points system may seem straightforward, but this is not the case.
While an advisor will ask you detailed questions to get the correct information, most online tools won’t. Online tools are often nothing more than a series of yes or no questions. Few have detailed descriptions of requirements or provide guidance on the more intricate parts of the immigration act.
The best way to ensure you get a score that’s 100% correct? By working with a licensed immigration advisor who’ll ensure that you definitely meet the full set of criteria for a New Zealand visa.
Get assistance and get the right score
Intergate Emigration has not one but three licensed immigration advisors to assist you with your visa application from start to finish. This includes explaining how the points system work and calculating your New Zealand points score.
All you have to do to get started is book an initial immigration assessment. Our initial assessment is free and it’ll reveal any migration pathways open to you.
You’ll also have the opportunity to ask any questions you may have, whether it’s about the New Zealand points system or another part of the immigration process.
- Published in Immigration Advice, Our very latest posts, Skilled Migrant Visa
How does life in New Zealand compare to other countries?
There are many ways to compare the quality of life between two or more countries.
The OECD, an international organisation that promotes policies to improve the economic and social well-being of people around the world, chose to look at factors that directly impact people’s lives on a daily basis. Factors such as healthcare, schooling, and work-life balance.
The results are captured in the OECD’s Better Life Index – and New Zealand did well!
New Zealand is among the top countries in the Index
The Better Life Index compares the 35 member countries of the OECD plus key partners such as Brazil, Russia and South Africa. The quality of life is measured against 11 topics, each with up to four indicators, and New Zealand is a top performer in most areas.
Income
The OECD average household net-adjusted disposable income per capita is USD33,604. New Zealand’s average is USD25,074 which means it’s less than the OECD average.
Jobs
In New Zealand, 77% of people between the ages of 15 and 64 have a paid job. This is 9% higher than the OECD average of 68%.
Education
Schooling is important to New Zealanders – 79% of adults aged 25 to 64% have completed upper secondary education. This is slightly above the OECD average of 78%.
When looking at New Zealand’s education system, the average student scored 506 in reading literacy, maths and science in the OECD’s Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA). This score is higher than the OECD average of 486.
Life expectancy
Someone born in New Zealand enjoys a life expectancy of 82 years, which is higher than the OECD average of 80 years. When comparing genders, women’s life expectancy is 83 years compared to 80 years for men.
Working hours
While New Zealand is known for great work-life balance, 15% of employees work long hours, which is more than the OECD average of 11%.
Air quality
New Zealand’s level of tiny air pollutant particles small enough to enter and cause damage to the lungs is 4.9 micrograms per cubic meter. This is much lower than the OECD average of 13.9 micrograms per cubic meter.
Water quality
It’s not only New Zealand’s air quality that’s great. The water quality in New Zealand is also exceptional! No less than 89% of people say they are satisfied with the quality of water in the country. This is 8% higher than the OECD average of 81%.
Community
When asked if they believe they know someone to rely on in time of need, 96% of New Zealanders said they do. This is 13% higher than the OECD average!
Life satisfaction
New Zealanders are happy people! When asked to rate their general satisfaction with life on a scale from 0 to 10, New Zealanders responded with a 7.3 grade on average, which is higher than the OECD average of 6.5.
With such a great quality of life it’s no surprise that New Zealand is a top choice for migrants from across the world! Get in touch if you’d like also like to make New Zealand your home.
- Published in About New Zealand, Our very latest posts
New Zealand Immigration Glossary
Immigration to New Zealand is an adventure countless families from around the world undertake each year in search of a better life.
It’s no simple task though, this immigration business. Many hopeful immigrants don’t even know where to start!
The process isn’t made any simpler by the foreign terms and phrases found in immigration material.
That’s why we compiled a New Zealand immigration glossary, to help you understand various terminologies associated with emigrating to Australia’s neighbour.
Below you’ll find the full list of words and phrases plus their meanings. Why don’t you contact us when you’re done reading and we’ll also tell you the best way to start your immigration?
Acceptable qualification
An acceptable qualification for a post-study work visa:
- Is a New Zealand qualification listed on the New Zealand Qualifications Framework (NZQF).
- Involves 60 weeks of study at Levels 4 to 6, or 30 weeks or more of study at Level 7 and above.
Accredited employer
This is a New Zealand employer, who has accreditation to employ people under the New Zealand Work Policy, approved by the NZIS.
Adult child
This refers to a child who is 17 years of age or older.
ANZSCO
The Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations. It is published on the Australian Bureau of Statistics website and it is the system Immigration New Zealand use to check:
- The skill levels of jobs.
- The qualifications and/or experience needed to work in those jobs.
Biometrics
Biometrics is a means of identifying and authenticating a person through features of that person’s body. The most common examples of this are:
- Fingerprints.
- Face structure (photos).
Certified copy
A photocopy stamped or signed by a person as a true copy of the original. The certifier must be authorized by law to take statutory declarations in your home country or in New Zealand. Examples of such persons are lawyers, Justice of the Peace, and court officials.
Civil union
Civil unions may be between partners of the same or opposite sex. A civil union has the same property and civil rights as a marriage.
Close family
You or your partner’s adult brothers or sisters, adult children or parents are considered close family members.
De facto partner
A person who is living in a genuine and stable relationship with their partner, for a minimum of 12 consecutive months.
EOI – Expression of Interest
When you are looking to immigrate to New Zealand, everything is dependent on your points score. This is obtained by an assessment in order to determine your eligibility.
The Expression of Interest (EOI) is the initial application stage for New Zealand immigration. Applicants under the skilled migration category will need to complete an Expression of Interest.
If you meet the criteria for the points score, you’ll be able to submit an Expression of Interest.
Essential Skills in Demand Lists
The Essential Skills in Demand Lists details the occupations in New Zealand in need of qualified and experienced talent. There are three lists:
- Long Term Skills Shortage List
- Immediate Skills Shortage List
- Construction and Infrastructure Skills Shortage List.
Full birth certificate
A full birth certificate includes your full name, you date and place of birth, and your parents’ full names.
Full-time job
A job where you work at least 30 hours a week.
Full-time study
Full-time study is where you either:
- Attend a course at a private training establishment for at least 20 hours a week; or
- Enroll for at least three papers, or equivalent, each semester at a University or Polytechnic, or a level 7 or higher qualification at a private training establishment.
Genuine and stable partnership
A relationship that has been entered into on a long term and exclusive basis, and that is likely to last.
Good health
To be eligible for immigration to New Zealand, you must be in good health which means you must meet certain health requirements as determined by Immigration New Zealand. You’ll be considered in good health if you’re:
- Unlikely to be a danger to the health of the people already in New Zealand.
- Unlikely to be a financial burden on the New Zealand health or special education services.
- Able to work or study if this is the reason for your visa.
IELTS
The International English Language Testing System. You may be required to do this English language test to demonstrate that you can speak, read, write and listen in English.
Immigration Advisers Authority
People who give New Zealand immigration advice must be licensed with The Immigration Advisers Authority unless they are exempt. This is a requirement by law.
INZ
Immigration New Zealand. INZ is part of the New Zealand Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment and is responsible for border control, issuing travel visas and managing immigration to New Zealand.
Invitation to Apply
This simply refers to a stage of the skilled migration visa application process. If you meet certain criteria, you will receive an Invitation to Apply.
Labour market test
Labour market tests are conducted by Immigration New Zealand before granting a work visa under the skilled migrant visa category. The purpose of this test is to check whether:
- An employer has made a genuine attempt to attract and recruit suitable New Zealanders for a job.
- There are any suitable New Zealanders to do a job, or who can be trained to do a job.
Long Term Skill Shortage List (LTSSL)
This is a list of long term and highly skilled occupations which there is a shortage of and a strong demand in the New Zealand. Should your occupation be on this list, then you could prospectively qualify for the skilled migrant visa.
Licensed immigration adviser
Licensed immigration advisers for New Zealand have specialised expertise. They have met competency standards and they follow a professional code of conduct.
Advisers are able to help you in the following ways:
- Explore your visa options.
- Prepare your visa application.
- Settle into New Zealand.
- Determine if you can appeal a declined visa.
- Determine your options if you are in New Zealand unlawfully.
Migration points
The majority of visa options will require you to be assessed against a point’s criterion in order to determine if you qualify or not.
Minimum threshold
The minimum threshold is the lowest number of points you need to score for your Expression of Interest to enter the Expression of Interest pool. This threshold is currently set at 100 points.
New Zealand Qualifications Authority
The New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) is a government agency responsible for:
- Setting the standards for New Zealand qualifications and recognising overseas qualifications.
- Administering the New Zealand Qualifications Framework and assessing overseas qualifications against it.
Non-principal applicants
These are anyone included in a visa application that is not the principal applicant. For example, the applicant’s partner or dependent children.
Occupational registration
Registration with a New Zealand registration authority that allows you to work in a particular occupation in New Zealand.
Offer of employment
An offer of employment is a genuine and sustainable opportunity. The physical offer must include the following:
- Name, address, telephone and/or fax number of the employer.
- Name and address of the person to whom the job offer is extended.
- A full job description including details such as the job title, the type of work, duties and responsibilities involved, and details pay and conditions of employment. Please note this is not the full set of criteria for the job description.
Partner
A person you are legally married to, or in a civil union or de facto relationship with, and who you live with in a genuine and stable partnership. Partners can be of the same or opposite sex.
Principal applicant
This is the primary person who will be assessed against the criteria of a resident visa.
Recognised qualification
Qualifications that are recognised based on:
- An assessment by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority.
- The NZQF level as set out in the ‘List of Qualifications Exempt from Assessment’.
- The NZQF level based on your occupational registration in New Zealand.
Resident
This refers to a person who holds a current New Zealand residence permit or alternatively a New Zealand returning resident’s visa.
Skilled employment
Employment that you need specialist, technical or management expertise and relevant qualifications and/or work experience to do, and which meets a minimum pay threshold.
Skilled migration
New Zealand requires a certain amount of skilled workers that it needs to attract from overseas. Individuals will need to meet a certain set of criteria in terms of their profession, experience, skills and qualifications. If these criteria are met, the applicant is classified as a skilled migrant.
Sponsorship
A guarantee from a person, organisation or government agency to look after you while you visit, study, work or settle in New Zealand. If your stay is temporary, your sponsor must also guarantee the cost of your return home.
Student visa
If you wish to study in New Zealand as a foreign student, you will need to obtain a student visa for New Zealand.
Substantial invest
This refers to the purchase of at least a minimum requirement of 25% or more of the shareholding of the business.
Visa
Your New Zealand visa shows that you’re able to travel to, or stay in New Zealand temporarily or indefinitely.
Visa waiver country
If you are coming from a visa waiver country to New Zealand, you will not need to obtain a visitor’s visa before you travel.
Work
An activity you perform for which you are remunerated either in salary or wagers, or another benefit like accommodation, food or transport. There are certain activities which are not considered as ‘work’ – please consult with our advisers if you’d like to find out what these activities are.
Work to Residence
You may have outstanding talent in a certain area, such as sports, art or culture. You could then apply to work in New Zealand under the Work to Residence programme.
This will help you gain access to being able to work on a temporary basis in New Zealand. The work visa obtained in this regard can be used as a tool to gain permanent residency.
Source: www.immigration.govt.nz
- Published in Immigration Advice, Our very latest posts
4 Tips for English language test preparation
If there is one part of the immigration process that’s underestimated by many, it’s the English language test.
“But I can speak English, it won’t be a problem”, we hear you say.
This may be the case, but can you speak English to the level Immigration New Zealand requires? How’s your spelling and grammar? And when was the last time you were subjected to the nail-biting anxiety of having to complete a test in a certain time?
Your English language test score is an important part of your visa application. It could even mean the difference between being able to submit a visa application or not. Won’t you want to be as prepared as can be?
Tip 1: Understand the test format
The most common English language tests are the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) and the PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English Academic).
Both of these tests consist of four parts:
- Listening
- Reading
- Writing
- Speaking
In turn, each part consists of a set of questions and tasks. Familiarising yourself with all the parts, questions and tasks will prepare you for what’s coming on test day. Going in blind is setting yourself up for failure!
Let’s give you the Reading section of the IELTS as an example:
The Reading section consists of 40 questions and you have 60 minutes to answer them. You’ll get tested on a wide range of reading skills which include:
- Reading for gist, main ideas and detail.
- Skimming.
- Understanding logical argument.
- Recognising writers’ opinions, attitudes and purpose.
The reading material will come from materials you are likely to encounter on daily basis in an English-speaking environment such extracts from books, magazines, company handbooks, and advertisements.
When it comes to the questions, you can expect a variety of questions ranging from multiple choice and identifying information to summary completion and matching features.
And while this may be the reading part of your English language test, you will be penalized for poor spelling and grammar!
Can you already see why it’s important to prepare for your English test?
Tip 2: Practice with sample tests
Completing sample test materials will help to prepare you for the test in a big way! You’ll be able to:
- Familiarise yourself with the test format.
- Experience the types of tasks you’ll be asked to do.
- Test yourself under timed conditions.
- Review your answers and compare them with model answers.
This is like the tests that came before the big end-of-year exams at school. Do you think you would’ve done half as good in the exam if you didn’t write the tests beforehand?
Both IELTS and Pearson have sample tests available on their websites, and you download it here and here.
Tip 3: Consider working with an English language teacher
You don’t have to prepare for this important test on your own! You are allowed to work with an English language test teacher.
Most teachers work with you over Skype but there also teachers who’ll meet up face-to-face. The content of the session and the support provided also range from one teacher to the next.
In general though you can expect English language teachers to introduce you to the test format, take you through sample tests, give feedback, and focus on your developmental areas. Some teachers also provide you with learning materials and ebooks.
Intergate has a list of English language teachers we recommend and you can access this list if you’re a client of ours. If you haven’t asked us for this list yet, do so today.
Tip 4: Know what to expect on test day
Cast your mind back to those important end-of-year exams at school. Remember how you had to be seated at a certain time? Remember that you had have at least two pens, a ruler and a pencil?
The English language test environment is similar. You’ll obviously have to be on time, but there are in fact also items to bring to the exam. One such item is a means of identification.
If you’re an Intergate Emigration client, your advisor will be able to advise you on exactly what to expect on test day. Alternatively, you can chat to your English language teacher who’ll also be able to guide you.
In summary…
This is not ‘just’ an English test.
Your English language test score counts towards your overall points score which determine whether or not you can live and work in New Zealand. Scoring well is thus important if you want to boost your chances of immigrating.
If you don’t prepare you’re potentially setting yourself up for failure – and we’re sure you wouldn’t want to do that.
Work to residence in New Zealand
Did you know it’s possible to work to residence in New Zealand? This means it’s not necessarily the end of the road if you didn’t qualify for permanent residence straight away!
Today we’ll introduce you to all the visa options for work to residence. If you want to find out if you’re eligible for any, we suggest booking your free initial assessment immediately.
How does ‘work to residence’ work?
There are four temporary work visa options under the work to residence programme. When granted one of these visas you’ll be able to apply for permanent residence after you’ve held the temporary visa for two years (or three years for religious workers).
Four work to residence visas for New Zealand
You have four work to residence visas to explore. This is provided you meet the basic qualifying criteria which is that you must:
- Be 55 or younger; and
- Meet New Zealand’s health and character requirements.
The visas are:
- Work to Residence: Long Term Skills Shortage
- Talent (Accredited Employers) Work Visa
- Talent (Arts, Culture, Sports) Work Visa
- Religious Worker Work Visa
1. Work to Residence: Long Term Skills Shortage
If you are qualified and skilled in an occupation for which New Zealand has a sustained and ongoing skills shortage, you may be eligible for a work visa under the Long Term Skill Shortage List Work Category.
These are the requirements you’ll have to meet:
- Your skills and experience appear on the Long Term Skill Shortage List.
- You’ve received a full-time job offer that:
- Uses your skills and experience; and
- Pays more than NZ$45,000 a year.
While visas are usually issued for up to 30 months, you’ll be allowed to apply for residence after two years (24 months) provided:
- Your job was on the Long Term Skill Shortage List when you applied for your visa; or
- Your job is on the Long Term Skill Shortage List when you apply for residence.
- You worked in that skill shortage occupation for the duration of your contract.
2. Talent (Accredited Employers) Work Visa
An accredited employer is an employer that has been pre-approved by Immigration New Zealand to employ skilled or talented foreign nationals. This makes the process simpler and smoother for both the employer and the visa applicant.
To apply for temporary residence under the Accredit Employer category, you’ll have to meet the following criteria:
- You have a full-time job offer for at least 2 years from an accredited employer.
- You must work in the specific job, for the specific accredited employers, and in the specific location detailed in the job offer that was the basis of your visa application. This applies to the duration of your visa.
- You’ll earn at least NZ$55,000 a year.
As with the Short Term Skill Shortage category you’ll get a visa valid for up to 30 months. You’ll be allowed to apply for permanent residence after two years of employment.
3. Talent (Arts, Culture, Sports) Work Visa
You’ll be eligible for this talent visa if you have an exceptional talent in a field of art, sport or culture. In order to be eligible for an application, you must:
- Have the support of a New Zealand organisation of national repute in your field of talent. Such an organization is one that is nationally recognized for its excellence in either:
- A field of art, culture or sport.
- Fostering exceptional talent in a field of art, culture or sport.
- Be able to demonstrate that your ability will result in positive contribution to the development of your specific field in New Zealand.
Your Talent (Arts, Culture, Sports) Work Visa will be valid for up to 30 months. After two years you’ll be able to apply for permanent residence provided that you:
- Were actively engaged in your field in New Zealand for two years.
- Did not apply for or were granted any social welfare benefits in New Zealand.
4. Religious Worker Work Visa
The Religious Worker Work Visa is a pathway to residence for people who are experience or trained in religious work. To be granted a temporary work visa:
- You must have an offer for religious work from an acceptable religious organisation. An acceptable organization is one that is:
- Registered as a charity; and
- Whose main purpose it is to advance religion.
- The religious organization must act as your sponsor.
The Religious Worker Work Visa is valid for up to two years. If the organisation’s work and sponsorship continues, you can apply for a second work visa. You’ll then be able to apply for permanent residence in New Zealand after three years.
To apply for permanent residence, you must:
- Have at least 5 years of religious training and/or experience.
- Continue to work for a religious organization that’s agreed to sponsor you.
- Have English language ability of at least IELTS Level 5.
- Not have applied for or been granted any social welfare benefits in New Zealand.
Family joining you?
New Zealand does not allow you to include your family in your Work to Residence application for New Zealand. However, your spouse and any dependents may apply separately based on their relationship with you. Once you apply for permanent residence, you can include these family members in your application.
Contact us if you have questions
Read something you need clarification on? Want to discuss the requirements in more detail? Then feel free to contact us via either phone +27 (0) 21 424 2460 / +27 (0) 11 234 4275 or email. If you choose to email us, an advisor will endeavor to contact you within 24 hours to address your questions.
- Published in Our very latest posts, Work Visas for New Zealand
Am I eligible to work in New Zealand?
One thing is certain about immigration – you’re going to have lots of questions! Number one, arguably, will be “Am I eligible to work in New Zealand?” The follow up question will be “How do I find out?”
Finding yourself nodding in affirmation? Then you’ll be delighted to hear that you’ve come to the right place for the answers.
To be eligible to work in New Zealand, you must meet certain criteria
To understand New Zealand work visa requirements, first familiarize yourself with the visa types.
Let’s start by looking at the broad categories. New Zealand offers work visas to:
- People who have skills New Zealand need.
- Applicants with a job offer from a New Zealand job employer.
- Entrepreneurs who want to work in their own businesses.
- The partners of New Zealand citizens or permanent residents.
- The partners of New Zealand work visa holders.
You can thus see that to be eligible to work in New Zealand you’ll have to:
- Possess skills on one of New Zealand’s skills shortage lists; or/and
- Secure a job offer; or
- Have the means to start your own business or to buy into an existing business; or
- Be in a stable and committed relationship with a New Zealander; or
- Be the partner of a work visa applicant or recipient.
This is still a broad look at the New Zealand’s visa requirements! Let’s sink our teeth into the specifics:
Skilled Migrant Visa – Skills and a job offer
To be eligible to work in New Zealand as a skilled migrant, you must:
- Be 55 or younger.
- Have an occupation that is in demand.
- Score 160 points or more in your skills assessment.
- Have an offer of skilled employment or current skilled employment in New Zealand.
- Meet the English language requirements.
- Meet the New Zealand good character requirements.
- Be in good health.
Go here for an in-depth look at the Skilled Migrant visa.
Essential Skills Visa – Skills and a job offer
You’ll only be eligible for an Essential Skills Visa if you meet these basis criteria:
- You have a written full time job offer from a New Zealand employer.
- Your occupation is on the essential skills list.
- You must possess the skills, qualifications, and experience necessary to perform the role you’ve been offered. Additionally Immigration New Zealand must be satisfied that there is no suitable New Zealanders for the position.
- Your remuneration must be according to the ANZSCO level of your occupation.
Go here for an in-depth look at the Essential Skills visa.
Entrepreneur Work Visa – The financial means to start your own business or to buy into an existing business
If you want to work in your own business in New Zealand, you’ll have to be able to demonstrate the following:
- NZ$100,000 capital to establish the business. This does not include working capital. Some sectors can apply for a waiver of this NZ$100,000. Talk to our advisors for more details.
- A business plan that show that your business will add value to New Zealand and can succeed.
- Good business character. Immigration New Zealand will review any circumstances of business failure, fraud, and bankruptcy.
- A score of at least 120 in a points-based assessment.
- Good health.
- English language ability. You’ll have to meet the English language requirements as determined by Immigration New Zealand.
Go here for an in-depth look at the Entrepreneur Work visa.
New Zealand Spouse or Partner Visa – In a stable and committed relationship with a New Zealander
Spouses and partners of New Zealanders can apply for a work visa provided the relationship meets Immigration New Zealand’s criteria.
Firstly, the relationship must be one of these:
- Legal marriage; or
- Civil union; or
- De facto relationship; whether same-sex or opposite sex.
Immigration New Zealand will furthermore consider four factors when deciding whether the relationship meet the criteria of the spouse or partner visa:
- Credibility: Are both the partner and applicant credible in the evidence they present?
- Co-habitation: Barring any special circumstance preventing it, partners must live together.
- That the partnership is genuine: The reasons for entering into and remaining in the partnership are genuine.
- That the partnership is stable: The partnership is exclusive and of a long term nature.
In addition to being able to prove the above, the New Zealand partner must also be able to show:
- Proof of their residence status.
- That New Zealand is their primary place of residence.
- That they are eligible a supporting sponsor.
You, as the applicant, must also meet New Zealand’s health and character requirements.
Go here for an in-depth look at the Partner and Spouse visa.
Partner of a New Zealand Work Visa Holder – Your partner is applying for or has a work visa
The definition of partner for this visa is the same as for above. Partners are two people, either same sex or opposite sex, who live together and are in a stable relationship in any of the following:
- Legal marriage; or
- Civil union; or
- De Facto relationship.
In addition, you and your supporting partner must also meet these criteria:
- Be 18 years of age or older. If you are 16 or 17 years old, you’ll need consent from your parents or guardians.
- You must have met each other before applying for a visa based on your relationship.
- You cannot be close relatives.
Considering the visa is dependent on your partner’s work visa, the following should also be true:
- Your partner is making an application for a work visa.
- Your partner has already secured a work visa.
Go here for an in-depth look at the visa for a Partner of a New Zealand Work Visa Holder.
To find out if you are eligible to work in New Zealand, do this…
Immigration isn’t always black and white or straightforward. That’s why judging your eligibility for a work visa is not as easy as ticking off the bullet points on our lists.
What you want to do is contact a licensed immigration advisor for an assessment. This is the surest way to know your eligibility for a New Zealand work visa.
Our immigration advisors can do such an assessment for you – and our initial one is free! It’s obligation free too. You’ll only proceed to the next steps if you want to.
Booking your initial assessment only takes a minute or two if done online. What do you have to lose? Book your assessment right now.
Jobs needed in New Zealand: Aged Care Registered Nurses and Teachers
There are many jobs needed in New Zealand and New Zealand’s Ministry of Business and Innovation (MBIE) regularly review the skills shortage lists to meet the changing demands of the labour market.
The MBIE just recently completed their latest review and on 8 May announced that aged care registered nurses and teachers will be added to skills lists as of 28 May 2019. The move was applauded as it is seen as a positive step towards addressing chronic staff shortages.
To give hopeful applicants a better idea of working in New Zealand as aged care registered nurses or teachers, we’ve compiled a guide addressing four key factors for each occupation:
- Job description
- Salaries
- Working conditions
- What New Zealand expects of their nurses and teachers.
Nurses are up first and then we move on to teachers.
Aged Care Registered Nurses
Aged care registered nurses provide care to elderly people. Work places can range from residential facilities to hospitals and the patients’ home.
Job description
Aged care registered nurses are responsible for the health requirements of their patients. This includes:
- Managing health conditions.
- Managing medication and treatment schedules.
- Maintaining medical records.
- Administering nursing care to ill, injured, convalescent, or disabled patients.
- Taking action when sudden health changes occur.
- Educating patients and their families and community groups about health needs, long-term effects, and prevention of accidents and illness.
Often aged care registered nurses are also in management positions at residential care homes or assist in the managing of homes.
Salaries
Registered nurses earn between NZ$22.78 and NZ$28.94 per hour, with the average hourly rate sitting at NZ$25.94.
Working hours
Registered nurses in New Zealand work shifts of 8 to 12 hours at hospitals, rest homes, or nursing homes. Nurses working in the community or at medical centres usually work 40 hours per week.
What New Zealand expects of registered nurses
The expectations of New Zealand’s healthcare industry is no different to others around the world. Nurses are expected to have:
- Excellent nursing skills and knowledge of different nursing methods.
- The patient’s best interest at heart, advocating on their behalf.
- Good communication and problem-solving skills.
Registered nurses must also have the ability to:
- Work under pressure and remain calm in emergencies.
- Show compassion, and relate to people from various cultures and backgrounds.
- Be patient and helpful.
Teachers
The MBIE added early childhood, primary scool and secondary school teachers to New Zealand’s skills shortage lists. As such, we’ll discuss each one separately.
Early Childhood Teacher
Early childhood teachers educate and care for young children in kindergartens or children centres.
Job description
Early childhood teachers may do some or all of the following:
- Educating and care for babies and children.
- Helping prepare meals, clean and tidy up, give medicines, and change nappies.
- Planning daily programmes, learning experiences and routines for children..
- Making or adapt learning resourse.
- Implementing New Zealand’s early childhood curriculum.
- Assessing and recording the learning and development of each child.
- Discussing children’s progress with their parents or caregivers as well as other education professionals.
- Running workshops for parents and caregivers.
- Preparing budgets, order supplies, and helping manage the early childhood centre.
Salaries
Starting salaries for early childhood teachers range from $36,000 to $47,000 annually depending on qualifications. Experienced early childhood teachers in senior positions can earn between $60,000 and $85,000 per year.
Working hours
Early childhood teachers work between 35 and 40 hours a week.
What New Zealand expects of early childhood teachers
Early childhood teacher in New Zealand must have knowledge of:
- Different teaching methods and learning styles.
- The early childhood curriculum.
- Behaviour management techniques.
- Safety and emergency procedures.
- Food preparation and hygiene.
- Child learning and development, including early literacy and numeracy.
These teachers must also be:
- Skilled at communicating with children and adults from a range of backgrounds and cultures.
- Enthusiastic, open-minded and able to motivate children.
- Creative and adaptable.
Primary School Teachers
Primary school teachers is responsible for the education of children between the ages of five and 13 at primary or intermediate schools.
Job description
The responsibilities of primary school teachers include:
- Planning, preparing, and presenting lessons.
- Teaching a wide range of subjects.
- Keeping up to date with curriculum changes and assessment methods.
- Helping children to develop their social skills and behaviours.
- Leading a curriculum area within the school.
- Getting involved in extracurricular activities.
- Doing lunchtime playground duty or road patrol duty.
Salaries
The annual salaries for primary school teachers range from NZ$47,000 to NZ$74,000 with the average yearly salary sitting at NZ$54,000.
Working conditions
Primary school teachers are usually dealing with children from about 8am until 3.30pm. Often primary school teachers will work outside these hours on admin work, meetings, and extracurricular activities.
What New Zealand expects of primary school teachers
New Zealand expects primary school teachers to have a knowledge of:
- Different teaching methods and learning styles.
- The New Zealand school curriculum.
- Child development, including learning difficulties and how to deal with them.
- Behaviour management techniques, such as establishing boundaries.
These teachers must also be able to:
- Communicate with children and adults from a various backgrounds and cultures.
- Enthusiastic, open-minded and able to motivate children.
- Creative and adaptable.
Secondary School Teachers
Secondary school teachers educate students between the ages of 13 and 18 and teach one or more subjects.
Job description
The responsibilities of secondary school teachers include:
- Planning, preparing and presenting lessons.
- Setting and marking assignments and tests.
- Assessing students’ work for national qualifications.
- Attending departmental and staff meetings.
- Being involved in extracurricular activities.
- Keeping up to date with curriculum changes and assessment methods.
Salaries
Secondary school teachers earn between NZ$48,000 and NZ$81,000 per year depending on experience, with the average annual salary sitting at NZ$68,000.
Working conditions
Secondary school teachers work regular school hours, but often work additional hours to plan lessons, assess work, and assist with extracurricular activities.
What New Zealand expects of secondary school teachers
New Zealand requires their secondary school teachers to have knowledge of:
- Different teaching methods and learning styles
- The curriculum subjects they teach.
- Classroom management skills.
- To keep up to date with best teaching practices.
Secondary school teachers must also be able to:
- Communicate with students and adults from a range of backgrounds and cultures.
- Positive, open-minded, and able to motivate young people.
- Understanding, tolerant, and good at listening.
For more advice on jobs needed in New Zealand, contact us
Finding out more about the various jobs needed in New Zealand as well as work visas and their requirements is as easy as calling us or sending us an email. You can reach our team per telephone on +27 (0) 202 8200 or to email us, simply complete this form on our website.
Source: www.careers.govt.nz
- Published in Immigration Advice, Our very latest posts, Work Visas for New Zealand
New Zealand makes changes to skills lists
New Zealand’s Ministry of Business and Innovation (MBIE) regularly reviews the country’s skills list to meet the changing needs of the job market. On Wednesday, 8 May, the MBIE announced the completion of the 2018/2019 review together with the changes that’ll be made to the skills lists.
The MBIE has decided to rename one skills list and will be adding certain occupations to the skills lists. These changes will all come into effect on Monday, 27 May. Below we discuss the changes.
The Regional Skill Shortage List (RSSL) replaces the Immediate Skill Shortage List
The MBIE has renamed the Immediate Skill Shortage List to now be the Regional Skill Shortage List (RSSL). While the occupations on the list stays virtually the same, the number of regions have been increased from 6 to 15.
According to Immigration Minister Iain Lees-Galloway, ‘these changes were the first step in the Government’s plan to streamline and regionalise the skills-based visa system.’ In particular, Immigration New Zealand wants to encourage ‘the regional dispersion of immigrants to places other than Auckland and the main centres’.
Teachers and aged care registered nurses added to skills lists
The New Zealand Aged Care Association has applauded Immigration New Zealand’s decision to add aged care registered nurses to the Long Term Skill Shortage List (LTSSL). The Association believes that this is positive step towards addressing chronic nursing shortages.
It’s not just registered nurses that are needed in New Zealand. There is also a teacher shortage. So much so, in fact, that Immigration New Zealand launched an intensive recruitment drive at the end of last year. The goal was to attract 400 teachers from overseas for the 2019 school year.
Considering the above, it is not surprising that MBIE has added Early Childhood Teacher, Primary School Teacher, and Secondary School Teacher for all regions to the new Regional Skill Shortage List.
Other occupation changes to skills lists were:
- Extending the ‘Construction Project Manager Roading and Infrastructure’ listing on the LTSSL to include ‘Construction Project Manager’.
- Amendments to the Construction and Infrastructure Skill Shortage List (CISSL):
- Adding Building Associate.
- Extending Plumber (General) to all regions.
- Removing Stonemason for the Canterbury regions. The occupation will remain for Auckland and Northland.
Want to stay informed about future changes? Connect with us!
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- Published in Our very latest posts
See New Zealand in all its glory!
New Zealand is a country of extraordinary beauty! From the country’s mountains and rivers, to its forests and beaches. You could never see it all in one go (but you should try at least once in your lifetime).
We could write about New Zealand’s sights and sounds all day but only photos would do them justice. Here is New Zealand in all its glory:
The Mars-like Putanqirua Pinnacles
The lone tree of Lake Wanaka
Sunset over Tunnel Beach
Lupine season in full bloom
The Land of the Long White Cloud
The Southern Lights
Paddling along the Waikato River
Bright autumn colours
The mighty Mt. Cook
- Published in About New Zealand, Our very latest posts
New Zealand to introduce ‘eVisa’ in October
The New Zealand government has announced a new tourist entry approval process known as the Electronic Travel Authority (ETA).
Effective from 1 October 2019, most travelers will need to hold an ETA before entering New Zealand.
Who will have to hold an Electronic Travel Authority?
Most travellers who aren’t required to get a visa before entering New Zealand will have to hold an Electronic Travel Authority. This includes:
- Citizens of visa waiver countries.
- Cruise ship passengers.
- Cruise ship crew.
- Commercial airline crew.
While Australian citizens will be exempt, Australian permanent residents will need to hold an ETA. New Zealand citizens and holders of valid New Zealand visas, both resident and temporary visas, will continue to be able to enter New Zealand without an ETA.
How will I apply for an ETA?
Travellers will be able to quickly and easily apply for their ETA either online or through an app. The cost for online applications will be NZ$12, while applying through the app will only be NZ$9.
Some travellers will also have to pay the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy at the same time as applying for their ETA. You can read more about this levy here.
Would I have to apply for an ETA each time I travel?
No, you won’t. The ETA for standard travellers will be valid for two years, while the ETA for crew members will be valid for five years.
When do applications open?
You can start applying for your ETA from 1 July 2019.
Should anything change, we’ll alert you. To be the first to know, sign up for our newsletter or follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn where news is posted as and when it happens.
- Published in Our very latest posts, Visitors visas for New Zealand