Preparing for Your New Zealand Residence Visa Application
The time has come. You're ready to commit to your life in New Zealand and get the ball rolling on your Residence Visa. In this blog post, we look at a few things you'll need to prepare before you submit your application.
Find out whether or not you’re eligible for a Residence Visa
Holding a work visa in NZ does not guarantee or automatically lead to Residence. The first step to preparing for your Residence Visa Application is to find out if you qualify for Residence or can get onto a Residence pathway.
Get your supporting documents ready
This includes documents for all applicants who will be included in your Residence Visa application (e.g. your spouse/partner and/or dependent children)
Make sure your passport is valid for at least 12 months.
Check that all names, date of birth, and other details on your Birth Certificate are correct. The same goes for Marriage Certificates and other official government-issued identification documents.
If your spouse/partner is included in your application, gather evidence of your partnership, such as photographs, proof that you're living together, support letters from family and friends, etc.
Prepare work reference letters from previous employers, confirming relevant past employment.
Have hard and digital copies of relevant qualifications and/or professional registration certificates.
Undergo any necessary tests
This includes:
Medical and Chest X-ray tests (if your previous one has expired).
English language test (from IELTS or PTE).
Occupational registration (if applicable).
Address any concerns or issues that might affect your application
This includes:
Child custody arrangements with ex-partners/spouses.
Past offences on your police clearance certificate (including traffic or driving-related offences).
Health conditions that require ongoing treatment/medication.
If you have any concerns or issues that might impact your application, contact us to determine how any problems might affect your Residence visa eligibility.
Ready funds for the Government Fee and additional costs
Government fees for Residence visa applications vary depending on which category you apply for.
A Residence Visa application under the skilled migrant category costs NZ$6,450.
A Residence Visa application under the Partnership Visa category costs between NZ$4,810 - NZ$5,360
Remember to set aside funds for other fees and expenses (e.g., English Language Test fees, Medical and Chest X-ray fees, and Immigration Adviser service fees, etc.).
If you're ready to make New Zealand your permanent home, chat with us about the right Residence Visa pathway for you and your family. CLICK HERE for a free Residence Visa Eligibility Assessment.
