A lot of people have dreams of moving to New Zealand because of its amazing natural beauty, outstanding standard of living, and strong economy. Depending on your objectives, experience, and skill set, there are a few options you could look into if you’re thinking about moving.
Here are 10 ways to relocate to New Zealand:
1. Spouse or Partner Visa
If you have a New Zealand spouse or partner, you might be eligible for a spousal or partner visa, which allows you to live and work in New Zealand.
- How it Works: If you are in a genuine relationship with an New Zealand citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen, you can apply for a Partner visa. This visa allows you to live, work, and study in New Zealand.
- Requirements: Proof of a genuine relationship, including financial, social, and personal aspects of the relationship.
2. Skilled Migrant Category Visa
The Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) visa is one of the most common ways to move to New Zealand. This visa is designed for individuals who have skills that are in demand in the country.
- How it Works: You need to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI), detailing your qualifications, work experience, and other factors like age and English proficiency. If your EOI is selected, you may be invited to apply for residence.
- Requirements: A job offer is not mandatory but can significantly improve your chances. Points are awarded based on factors like age, experience, qualifications, and job offer.
3. Work to Residence Visa
This pathway allows you to work in New Zealand and eventually apply for permanent residency.
- How it Works: You can apply for a Work to Residence visa if you have a job offer from an accredited employer, work in an occupation listed on the Long Term Skill Shortage List, or are considered a talent in the arts, culture, or sports.
- Requirements: A valid job offer, qualifications, and relevant work experience in your field.
4. Family Sponsorship
If you have close family members who are citizens or permanent residents of New Zealand, they can sponsor your visa.
- How it Works: Family members like a spouse, partner, or dependent children can sponsor you to come to New Zealand. You must provide proof of your relationship and meet other criteria.
- Requirements: The sponsor must be able to support you financially, and you must meet health and character requirements.
5. Investor Visa
For those with significant financial resources, the Investor Visa category provides a pathway to residency.
- How it Works: There are two types of Investor Visas—Investor 1 and Investor 2. Investor 1 requires a minimum investment of NZD 10 million, while Investor 2 requires NZD 3 million.
- Requirements: You must make a substantial investment in New Zealand, be in good health, and meet English language requirements.
6. Entrepreneur Visa
Entrepreneurs who wish to establish or purchase a business in New Zealand can apply for an Entrepreneur Visa.
- How it Works: You need to submit a detailed business plan showing how your business will benefit New Zealand. Once your company is up and going, you may apply for a 24-month visa. Initially, you can apply for a 12-month visa to buy or establish the business.
- Requirements: A minimum capital investment, a viable business plan, and relevant business experience.
7. Student Visa
Studying in New Zealand is a popular way to relocate, especially for young people looking to build their careers.
- How it Works: You can apply for a student visa to study at a New Zealand educational institution. After completing your studies, you may be eligible for a Post-Study Work Visa, which can lead to residency.
- Requirements: Enrollment in an accredited institution, proof of funds to cover tuition and living expenses, and health insurance.
8. Essential Skills Work Visa
This visa is available for people who have a job offer in New Zealand and whose skills are in demand.
- How it Works: The Essential Skills Work Visa is for workers whose job offer is in an occupation on the Essential Skills in Demand List (ESID). This visa allows you to work in New Zealand for a specific employer.
- Requirements: A valid job offer, relevant qualifications, and work experience in your field.
9. Post-Study Work Visa
If you’ve completed your studies in New Zealand, you can apply for a Post-Study Work Visa, which allows you to stay and work in the country.
- How it Works: This visa allows you to work for any employer in New Zealand after you finish your studies. It’s a great way to gain work experience and possibly transition to permanent residency.
- Requirements: Completion of a qualifying course in New Zealand, financial stability, and health insurance.
10. Working Holiday Visa
For young people (usually aged 18-30), a Working Holiday Visa offers a way to live and work in New Zealand for up to a year.
- How it Works: This visa allows you to work and travel in New Zealand for 12 months (or 23 months for some nationalities). It’s a good option if you want to explore the country and gain work experience at the same time.
- Requirements: Be within the age limit, have sufficient funds to support yourself initially, and meet health and character requirements.