New Zealand has introduced a new immigration pathway called the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa, according to reports today.
The new program offers skilled foreign workers a chance to gain long term residency in the country. This is also a golden opportunity for Pakistanis looking to move abroad.
The visa allows successful applicants to live in New Zealand for an unlimited period. Applicants can also include their spouse and dependent children under the age of 24 in the application.
Application fee
The application fee for the visa is NZD 6,450. Applicants may become eligible to apply for permanent residency after holding the visa for two years.
Eligibility criteria
According to the eligibility rules, applicants must usually be 55 years old or younger.
They must also be physically and mentally healthy. They need to have a good character record and should be able to speak English.
Applicants must have a full time skilled job or a valid job offer from an approved employer in New Zealand.
The job must meet the required working hours and contract conditions. The salary requirements depend on the skill level of the job.
ANZSCO levels
Applicants working in ANZSCO Levels 1 to 3 must earn at least NZD 35 per hour. Those in ANZSCO Levels 4 and 5 must earn at least NZD 52.50 per hour.
Applicants have to score at least six skilled points. Points can be earned through qualifications, work experience, professional registration, income level, and work experience in New Zealand.
English language ability is required for the main applicant, spouse, and children aged 16 or older.
Families who do not meet the language requirement may need to pay for approved English language courses.
How to apply
The application process starts with submitting an Expression of Interest. Selected applicants will then receive an Invitation to Apply.
Applicants have to submit documents such as passports, medical reports, and police clearance certificates.
The complete application needs to be submitted within four months after receiving the invitation.
