New Zealand is an island nation in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, surrounded by the sea, with superior natural conditions, a pleasant climate, and a beautiful environment. In recent years, an increasing number of Chinese students have been applying for New Zealand skilled migration by studying in New Zealand. However, many international students in New Zealand are concerned that immigration policies may change, fearing that they might inadvertently miss the latest policies and lose their opportunity to settle in New Zealand. So, what are the requirements to apply for New Zealand skilled migration in 2016, and what is the immigration process?
I. 2016 New Zealand Skilled Migrant Category Application Requirements
1. Age: 20-55 years old
Regarding age, the official requirement is between 20 and 55 years old, inclusive of 55. The optimal age for application is between 30 and 39, as applicants at this stage possess a certain level of work experience, which is highly valued by the immigration authorities.
2. Language: IELTS score of 6.5 average
IELTS is the first step in applying for New Zealand immigration. Skilled migration has the highest requirements for IELTS, necessitating an average score of 6.5 (either Academic or General Training modules are accepted). However, considering the importance of language for future life, taking the IELTS is essential. Applicants who have graduated from a New Zealand bachelor's degree program or higher may be exempt from the IELTS requirement. Applicants with higher education degrees from English-speaking countries or relevant work experience in English-speaking environments may also have the opportunity to be exempt from the IELTS requirement.
3. Status: Good health and no criminal record
Regarding the applicant's health and background, the New Zealand Immigration Service will assess your situation by collecting relevant documents, such as medical examination reports and police clearance certificates.
4. EOI: Passing the points test
EOI stands for Expression of Interest, which is the New Zealand immigration points system and the first step in the immigration application process. Once the points form is submitted, your score will be placed in the EOI pool, which is selected every two weeks.
The minimum threshold for New Zealand skilled migration is 100 points to enter the pool; however, if you can reach 140 points or more, you will be automatically selected. Since each profile can only remain in the pool for 6 months, if you do not reach the required score to be selected, your application will be returned.
It is worth noting that whether an applicant has made a contribution to New Zealand is an important factor in the immigration assessment. If the contribution level is zero, it is easy to be refused or granted an SMC Job Search Visa. Having studied in New Zealand and worked there for more than one year with legal tax payments is considered a contribution to New Zealand. The longer you work in New Zealand and the more taxes you pay legally, the greater the possibility of obtaining a Resident Visa (PR).
II. New Zealand Skilled Migrant Category Application Process
Free Assessment — Signing Contract — Submitting Expression of Interest (EOI) to Immigration New Zealand — Receiving Invitation to Apply (ITA) — Submitting Application Documents — Receiving Approval Letter — Obtaining Permanent Resident Visa.
New Zealand skilled migration is also suitable for applicants whose capital does not meet the requirements for investment migration or whose experience does not meet the requirements for New Zealand entrepreneur migration. Compared to Australian skilled migration, the requirements for New Zealand skilled migration are relatively simpler. Those who cannot meet the requirements for Australian skilled migration may consider immigrating to New Zealand by studying there.
III. Advantages of the New Zealand Skilled Migrant Category
1. Obtain a Green Card for the whole family in one step;
2. Passport provides visa-free access to over a hundred countries, while also enjoying all benefits in Australia;
3. Possesses a comprehensive education and medical system, with children receiving free public primary and secondary education;
4. Stable policy, the only country in the world where the Green Card enjoys a permanent return visa;
5. No immigration residency requirements (no "immigration jail"), with New Zealand status held permanently.
The application cost for New Zealand skilled migration is relatively low, making it particularly suitable for three types of people: "returnees" are the main group, followed by those with three to four years of work experience after graduation or successful professionals. However, if an applicant cannot currently meet the requirements for New Zealand skilled migration, they can try to study in New Zealand for a short term. After obtaining a New Zealand diploma, if they can successfully find a job locally, they can also open the door to New Zealand skilled migration.