As a country with an excellent overall rating, New Zealand's immigration policies have always attracted the attention of applicants. Regardless of how New Zealand's immigration policies change, the Skilled Migrant Category remains the most sought-after pathway for immigration. To immigrate to New Zealand through skilled migration, it is essential to understand the requirements and application costs involved.
I. New Zealand Skilled Migrant Category Requirements
New Zealand's skilled migration has always been a focus of attention. The characteristics of skilled migration are low costs and fast processing speeds, but it is relatively more difficult to qualify. The specific requirements for New Zealand skilled migration are as follows:
1. Under 55 years of age, in good health, and with no criminal record;
2. An average IELTS score of no less than 6.5;
3. Meet the educational requirements for the profession; some qualifications may require NZQA assessment;
4. Undergo an assessment where the EOI score must reach 160 points or higher;
5. Possess skills recognized by New Zealand and meet the relevant minimum salary standards;
Currently, New Zealand's skilled migration requirements have become stricter in many aspects. For example, there are new requirements regarding the definition of skills recognized by New Zealand and salary income, making it relatively more difficult to qualify. Furthermore, when applying for New Zealand skilled migration, because of the points-based system, one must pay attention to many factors. For instance, although those under 55 can apply, it is important to know that the age range of 20-39 is the golden period for applications, allowing for a maximum of 30 points, after which the points decrease.
II. New Zealand Skilled Migrant Category Costs
New Zealand skilled migration costs are the second key focus in our immigration process. It is often said that skilled migration has the lowest costs, and the main expenses include the following items:
1. EOI application fee: 530 NZD for online submission, 680 NZD for paper submission;
2. NZQA qualification assessment: 1,191 NZD (standard fee 746 NZD, expedited fee 404 NZD, document return fee 41 NZD);
3. Visa fee of 3,085 NZD (subject to change), plus a service fee of 220 CNY, and an additional courier fee (for returning documents) of 50 CNY per person;
4. New Zealand visa application fee: 13,090 CNY for a family of three, 13,040 CNY for a couple, and 12,990 CNY for a single applicant.
New Zealand's skilled migration requirements are strict, but the immigration costs are low, the processing speed is fast, and it provides a direct path to residency, which is why the Skilled Migrant Category stands out among the many New Zealand immigration policies. While the costs for New Zealand skilled migration are indeed affordable, the conditions are demanding. If an applicant truly cannot meet the relevant requirements, they may explore other pathways to achieve their immigration goals.