New Zealand’s Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Resident Visa offers a clear pathway for skilled professionals to gain permanent residency. This points-based visa is ideal for those with the qualifications, experience, and skills needed in New Zealand. Follow these 8 simple steps to achieve permanent residency through the SMC Resident Visa.
Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility
Before starting the application process, ensure you meet the basic eligibility criteria:
– Age: Must be 55 years or younger.
– English Language Proficiency: Meet the required level of English proficiency.
– Health and Character: Must meet health and character requirements.
– Points Threshold: Score at least 160 points based on factors like age, qualifications, work experience, and a job offer in New Zealand.
Tips for Eligibility
– Health: Get a medical examination and chest X-ray from an approved physician.
– Character: Obtain police certificates from your home country and any other countries you’ve lived in for 12 months or more in the last 10 years.
Step 2: Calculate Your Points
The SMC Resident Visa uses a points-based system to evaluate applicants. Points are awarded for:
– Age: Younger applicants receive more points.
– Skilled Employment: Points for a job offer in New Zealand or current skilled employment in New Zealand.
– Work Experience: Points for relevant work experience.
– Qualifications: Points for recognized qualifications.
– Bonus Points: Additional points for work in future growth areas, employment outside Auckland, and partner’s qualifications and skilled employment.
Points Calculation Tool
Use the [INZ Points Indicator](https://www.immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas/apply-for-a-visa/tools-and-information/tools/points-indicator-tool) to estimate your points.
Step 3: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
Once you have calculated your points and confirmed that you meet the minimum threshold, submit an EOI.
How to Submit an EOI
- Create an Account: Register on the Immigration New Zealand (INZ) website.
- Complete the EOI Form: Provide accurate information about your age, qualifications, work experience, and job offer (if applicable).
- Pay the EOI Fee: Pay the required fee to submit your EOI.
- Submit Your EOI: Submit the completed EOI form online.
Key Considerations
– Accurate Information: Ensure all information provided is accurate and verifiable.
– Review Points: Double-check your points calculation before submission.
Step 4: Wait for an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
EOIs are entered into a pool and ranked based on points. Those meeting the current points threshold are selected from the pool. If your EOI is selected, you will receive an ITA.
What to Expect
– Selection Pool: Your EOI remains in the pool for up to six months.
– ITA Notification: If selected, you will receive an ITA from INZ.
Step 5: Submit Your Resident Visa Application
After receiving an ITA, you have four months to submit your resident visa application.
Required Documents
– Identity Documents: Valid passport and two passport-sized photos.
– Health Documents: Completed medical and chest X-ray certificates.
– Character Documents: Police certificates from your home country and any other countries you’ve lived in for more than 12 months in the last 10 years.
– English Language Proficiency: Evidence of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS results).
– Skilled Employment: Job offer letter, employment agreement, and evidence of job description and duties.
– Qualifications: Certified copies of your educational qualifications.
– Work Experience: Detailed CV and references from previous employers.
Submission Process
- Complete the Application Form: Fill out the SMC Resident Visa application form.
- Attach Documents: Attach all required documents.
- Pay the Application Fee: Pay the visa application fee.
- Submit the Application: Submit your application to INZ.
Step 6: Await the Decision
INZ will process your application, which includes verifying your documents and possibly conducting an interview. Processing times can vary, so check the INZ website for current processing times.
Processing Stages
– Initial Assessment: INZ reviews your application and documents.
– Additional Information: INZ may request additional information or documentation.
– Interview: You may be invited for an interview to discuss your application.
Step 7: Receive Your Visa
If your application is approved, you will receive your SMC Resident Visa, allowing you and your family to live, work, and study in New Zealand indefinitely.
What to Do Next
– Travel Arrangements: Plan your move to New Zealand.
– Settle in New Zealand: Find accommodation, open a bank account, and register with local services.
Step 8: Bring Over Your Dependents
Your partner and dependent children can be included in your SMC Resident Visa application. If they were not included initially, you can apply for them to join you once you are settled.
Application for Dependents
- Proof of Relationship: Provide evidence of your relationship with your partner and dependent children.
- Complete Application Forms: Fill out the appropriate visa application forms for your dependents.
- Attach Documents: Attach necessary documents, such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, and proof of dependence.
- Submit Applications: Submit the completed forms and documents to INZ.
Key Considerations
– Visa Type: Your dependents can apply for the appropriate visa type based on your resident status.
– Settlement Support: Ensure your dependents have support for settling in New Zealand, including schooling and healthcare.
Common Questions and Misconceptions
Can I Apply Without a Job Offer?
Yes, you can apply without a job offer, but having one significantly increases your points and chances of receiving an ITA.
How Long Does the Process Take?
The process can take several months, from submitting an EOI to receiving a decision on your resident visa application. Check the INZ website for current processing times.
Do I Need to Submit Original Documents?
Certified copies of documents are usually sufficient, but INZ may request to see the originals during the process.
Can My Partner and Children Be Included?
Yes, your partner and dependent children aged 24 and under can be included in your application.
What Happens if My EOI is Not Selected?
If your EOI is not selected within six months, it will expire, and you can submit a new EOI.
Do I Need to Have Qualifications Assessed?
Certain qualifications may need to be assessed by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) to ensure they meet New Zealand standards.
Conclusion
Achieving permanent residency in New Zealand through the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa is a structured process that requires careful planning and preparation. By following these eight simple steps, you can navigate the application process effectively and increase your chances of success. Whether you are a skilled professional from Africa or elsewhere, this guide provides the essential information and insights needed to make your journey toward permanent residency in New Zealand as smooth as possible. For further assistance, consider consulting with an experienced immigration advisor to ensure a successful application.