New Zealand is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, vibrant culture, and excellent quality of life. For skilled professionals, the Talent (Accredited Employer) Work Visa offers a streamlined pathway to permanent residency.
This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of obtaining permanent residency in New Zealand through the Talent (Accredited Employer) Work Visa.
Introduction to the Talent (Accredited Employer) Work Visa
The Talent (Accredited Employer) Work Visa is designed for skilled workers who have a job offer from an accredited employer in New Zealand.
Accredited employers are companies that have been approved by Immigration New Zealand (INZ) to hire foreign workers.
This visa provides a clear pathway to permanent residency after two years of employment with an accredited employer.
Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining Permanent Residency
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Before you start the application process, ensure that you meet the basic eligibility criteria for the Talent (Accredited Employer) Work Visa:
– Job Offer: You must have a job offer from a New Zealand accredited employer.
– Salary Requirement: The job offer must have an annual base salary of at least NZD 79,560 (as of the latest update; check INZ for current thresholds).
– Qualifications and Experience: You should have the necessary qualifications and experience for the role.
– Health and Character: You must meet health and character requirements set by INZ.
Step 2: Secure a Job Offer from an Accredited Employer
To apply for the Talent (Accredited Employer) Work Visa, you need a job offer from an employer accredited by INZ. Accredited employers are recognized for their commitment to hiring skilled workers and providing a good working environment.
How to Find Accredited Employers
– INZ Accredited Employers List: Check the list of accredited employers on the INZ website.
– Job Portals: Use New Zealand job portals like Seek, Trade Me Jobs, and Indeed to find job listings from accredited employers.
– Networking: Utilize professional networks and industry contacts to find opportunities with accredited employers.
Step 3: Prepare Your Application
Once you have a job offer, gather the necessary documents to support your visa application. These documents include:
– Job Offer Letter: An official job offer letter from the accredited employer detailing the position, salary, and employment conditions.
– Qualifications and Experience: Certified copies of your educational qualifications and work experience certificates.
– Health Documents: A completed medical certificate and chest x-ray certificate (if required).
– Character Documents: Police certificates from your home country and any country you have lived in for more than 12 months in the past 10 years.
– Proof of Accreditation: Documentation from the employer confirming their accredited status.
Step 4: Submit Your Visa Application
You can submit your Talent (Accredited Employer) Work Visa application either online or via a paper application.
Online Application Process
- Create an Account: Register on the Immigration New Zealand (INZ) website.
- Complete the Application Form: Fill out the Talent (Accredited Employer) Work Visa application form online.
- Upload Documents: Upload scanned copies of all required documents.
- Pay the Application Fee: Pay the visa application fee using a credit card or other accepted payment methods.
- Submit Application: Submit the completed application form and wait for confirmation.
Paper Application Process
- Download the Form: Download the Talent (Accredited Employer) Work Visa application form from the INZ website.
- Complete the Form: Fill out the form with accurate information.
- Attach Documents: Attach certified copies of all required documents.
- Submit Application: Send the completed application form and documents to the nearest INZ office or visa application center.
- Pay the Application Fee: Include payment for the visa application fee.
Step 5: Await the Outcome
After submitting your application, you will need to wait for INZ to process your visa. Processing times can vary, but you can check the current processing times on the INZ website.
Interim Visas
If your current visa expires while your Talent (Accredited Employer) Work Visa application is being processed, you may be granted an interim visa, allowing you to stay in New Zealand legally until a decision is made.
Step 6: Work for Two Years with the Accredited Employer
Once your Talent (Accredited Employer) Work Visa is approved, you can start working for your accredited employer. You need to work for the accredited employer for a minimum of two years to be eligible to apply for permanent residency.
Maintaining Visa Conditions
– Employment: Continue working in the job specified in your visa application.
– Salary: Ensure your salary meets or exceeds the threshold set by INZ.
– Compliance: Adhere to all visa conditions and New Zealand laws.
Step 7: Apply for Permanent Residency
After completing two years of employment with the accredited employer, you can apply for permanent residency under the Residence from Work (Talent) category.
Eligibility Criteria for Permanent Residency
– Continuous Employment: You must have worked for the accredited employer for at least two years.
– Salary Threshold: Your annual base salary must meet the current threshold set by INZ.
– Health and Character: You must continue to meet health and character requirements.
Application Process for Permanent Residency
- Gather Required Documents: Collect all necessary documents, including proof of employment, salary, and any updated health and character documents.
- Submit Residence Application: Complete and submit the Residence from Work (Talent) application form, either online or on paper.
- Pay the Application Fee: Include payment for the permanent residency application fee.
- Await the Outcome: Wait for INZ to process your permanent residency application.
Step 8: Bringing Over Your Dependents
Once you have obtained your Talent (Accredited Employer) Work Visa, you can apply to bring your family members to New Zealand. Your partner and dependent children can apply for visas based on your work visa status.
Application Process 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.
- Submit Applications: Submit the completed forms along with supporting documents to INZ.
- Await the Outcome: Wait for INZ to process your dependents’ visa applications.
Common Questions and Misconceptions
Can I Change Employers While on a Talent (Accredited Employer) Work Visa?
You are generally expected to stay with the accredited employer who offered you the job. If you need to change employers, you must seek permission from INZ, and the new employer must also be accredited.
Is the Salary Threshold Fixed?
No, the salary threshold for the Talent (Accredited Employer) Work Visa can be adjusted by INZ periodically. Always check the latest requirements on the INZ website.
Can My Family Work in New Zealand?
Yes, your partner can apply for an open work visa, allowing them to work for any employer in New Zealand. Your children can also study in New Zealand.
What If My Employer Loses Accreditation?
If your employer loses their accredited status while you are on a Talent (Accredited Employer) Work Visa, you should contact INZ immediately for guidance. INZ may provide options to maintain your visa status.
Conclusion
The Talent (Accredited Employer) Work Visa is a highly advantageous route for skilled professionals seeking permanent residency in New Zealand.
By following this step-by-step guide, you can navigate the process effectively, secure employment with an accredited employer, and ultimately achieve permanent residency in this beautiful country.
For any further assistance, consulting with an experienced immigration advisor can provide personalized guidance and support throughout your journey.