New Zealand Applies a points-based system similar to Canada and Australia to attract highly skilled and experienced professionals from around the world. As a result, the country can gradսally boost its economy. New Zealand has a well-organized Immigration Process designed to attract immigrants.
The New Zealand government offers a Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) visa, which provides a pathway to permanent residency (PR). Unlike direct PR, the skilled migrant residence visa allows you to enter the country, search for a job, and then convert it to PR. The skilled migrant residence visa is typically valid for around one year with the possibility of extending it up to two years. You can promptly convert the SMC visa into PR when you secure a job in New Zealand. Essentially, it acts as a bridging visa for New Zealand PR. Keep in mind that the SMC visa application process is conducted online.
Accepted Language Tests:
Language Test | Details |
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IELTS (International English Language Testing System) |
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PTE (Pearson Test of English) |
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TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) iBT |
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Settlement Funds:
Name of your English test Minimum score required for your EOI:
Language Test | Minimum Score Required |
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International English Language Testing System (IELTS) - General or Academic Module | Overall score of 6.5 or more |
Test of English as a Foreign Language Internet-based Test (TOEFL iBT) | Overall score of 79 or more |
Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic) | Overall score of 58 or more |
Cambridge English: First (FCE) or Cambridge English: First (FCE) for Schools | Overall score of 176 or more |
Occupational English Test (OET) | Grade B or higher in all four skills (Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking) A score of Grade B or higher in all four skills is required for the OET as there is no overall grade for this test. |
Additional Notes:
Step 1: Submission of Expression of Interest (EOI)
Submit Your Expression of Interest (EOI):
Immigration Fees:
Invitation to Apply:
Submit Your Expression of Interest (EOI):
Step 2: Visa Application
Residency Application:
Visa Decision:
Application Fee: The application fee for the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa is NZD $4,890. This fee covers the processing of your visa application. It’s important to note that the application fee is non-refundable, even if your application is not approved. Additionally, non-refundable immigration levies are included in the overall cost.
This visa is for an individual and their dependent family members, granting them permanent residence in a specific country.
Read MoreThis is an individual's permission to remain in a country for a specific period of time, granted under certain conditions.
Read MoreThis is a visa that permits the immediate family members of a permanent resident or citizen of a country to reside, work, and study.
Read MoreThis is a visa that permits the immediate family members of a permanent resident (PR) or citizen of a country to reside, work, and study.
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