New Zealand classifies visas in categories; Skilled Migrant is the route most often used in obtaining a visa to New Zealand. Points are needed to qualify for this visa. Points are earned for education qualifications, experience gained in your employment history, and what job or prospective job an individual might have in New Zealand.
Business and investment opportunities are advantages for those seeking this type of visa. New Zealand welcomes business and investment groups and individuals.
Family visas are available for people with relatives in New Zealand when reuniting the family is desired. New Zealand has policies for each type of family member: parents, children under the age of 18, adult children, spouses or partners.
A Samoan Quota Scheme was developed to allow a specific number of individuals from Samoa to apply for residence each year.
Tonga, Kiribati or Tuvalu also have a specific number of residence visas as part of the Pacific Access Category.
Up to 300 refugee spots are available each year in New Zealand. These spots are for individuals as well as families.
To enter New Zealand, an applicant must meet two requirements. Each applicant must supply a medical and police certificate ensuring he or she meets New Zealand's health and character requirements. For the police certificate, visit a law-enforcement agency, be fingerprinted, and submit to a complete background check. For details about the medical certificate, see immigration.govt.nz/.
New Zealand assesses fees for visas. The fees must be paid at time of application. The website immigration.govt.nz/ lists the fees.
Once the application is accepted by New Zealand's immigration agency, a letter will be sent to the applicant describing the processing time. Before approving or denying an application, New Zealand verifies all the information on the application and medical and police certificates. The main question: Will the applicant be of benefit or detriment to the country? Immigration New Zealand may decide it needs more information from the applicant, and might request photos, documents, information about tickets or travel arrangements, or a medical examination.
