By Joshua Duvauchelle
New Zealand Immigration Requirements
New Zealand is a Pacific island nation found off the southwestern coast of Australia. A large source of New Zealand's population growth comes from immigration. Immigrants move to the country because of its temperate weather, varying geographic regions, natural beauty and high level of development. However, individuals wishing to move to New Zealand must satisfy requirements set forth by Immigration New Zealand.
An Applicable Migrant Category
Individuals wishing to migrate to New Zealand must fit into one of several migrant categories set by Immigration New Zealand. The main categories under which most immigrants will fall under is the Skilled Migrant category and the Business and Investment category. Skilled migrants are those who have job skills that New Zealand needs, such as medical workers or engineers. Business and investment immigrants are individuals wanting to move to the country to invest or establish a new or pre-existing business. Additional categories available include Family (those with relatives in the country), the Pacific Access and Samoan Quota category (a specialized agreement between the government of New Zealand and its Pacific island neighbors) and Refugee Support (those fleeing another country).
Application and Examination Documents
Applicants must obtain the specific immigration application for their migrant category from the nearest Immigration New Zealand office. The department has eight established offices in New Zealand that are capable of administering and receiving an immigration application, as well as 26 international offices. Consult with an immigration agent to verify your categorical eligibility to ensure you receive and complete the appropriate application. Individuals must also complete a medical examination certificate and a background check. Both documents are available online (see Resources) and can be completed by your physician and police department.
Immigration New Zealand
PO Box 3705
Wellington
New Zealand
Outside New Zealand: +64 9 914 4100
In New Zealand but outside of Auckland: 0508 558 855
In Auckland: 09 914 4100
Valid Passport
All individuals entering New Zealand as an immigrant must possess a valid, current passport from their country of origin. While a birth certificate is valid for entry as a visitor, immigrant status will not be conferred unless the individual holds a valid passport.
Payment of Immigration Fees
Potential immigrants must pay for their immigration application processing fees when they submit the application. Fees vary according to their migrant category and their country of origin. For example, as of 2009 a United States citizen living in the U.S. and wanting to move to New Zealand as a skilled worker must pay $400 NZD. Immigration New Zealand offers an online tool that notifies you of your payment according to its various selection factors (see Resources).
Resources
About the Author:
Joshua Duvauchelle is an editor and journalist who has been writing since 2000. His work has appeared in various national and international magazines, including "Honolulu Magazine." Duvauchelle graduated with honors from Trinity Western University, holding a Bachelor of Arts in professional communications, and earned a certificate in applied leadership and public affairs from the Laurentian Leadership Centre.
Photo Credits:
Stacey Leech
