New Zealand Emigration and Permanent Visas
There are four main categories permanent migrants will be considered under:
- Skilled Migrant Category
- Business Investment Category
- Family Category
- Humanitarian Category.
Skilled Migrant Category (SMC)
Under this new migrant category, an Expressions of Interest (EOIs) form needs to be completed. If this completed form meets the health, character, and English language prerequisites and the threshold of 100 points for employability and capacity building factors, then it will go directly into a pool. EOIs will then be selected from the pool periodically. The length of time from submission to being invited to apply will vary. EOIs accepted into the pool are ranked according to their points score.
If your EOI is not selected from the pool within three months it will be withdrawn and you will be notified. You are then at liberty to lodge another EOI. However, if no selection from the pool has taken place within the three month period, your EOI will remain in the pool until a selection occurs.
If you have been successful you will be sent an official invitation to apply for residence. You will then need to send a signed form, the applicable fees and all the necessary documentation to support your claims.
Business Investor Category
The aim of the business investor category is to ensure that high quality migrants with excellent, proven business skills and experience gain entry to New Zealand. Generally, they are also expected to invest business funds in New Zealand. You will be granted residence under the business investor category if you score enough points to meet the pass mark and you meet the compulsory requirements. Contact the New Zealand Immigration Service for the current pass mark.
Family Migrant Category
This category covers three situations - marriage to a New Zealand citizen or resident; de facto/homosexual relationship with a citizen or resident; parents, dependent children and single adult brothers and sisters and children. A legally married spouse of a New Zealand resident or citizen may qualify for residence. De facto or homosexual partners of New Zealand citizens or residents may be considered for residence. Once again, approval is not automatic, and an interview with both partners may be held. The couple will need to show they are living together in a stable, lasting relationship. The relationship must be of at least two years' duration in the case of a de facto couple, and four years if the relationship is homosexual.
Humanitarian Category
This covers people whose circumstances are exceptionally difficult. The applicant must have at least one close relative who is a New Zealand citizen or resident, and who supports the application.
