FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
…about emigrating to New Zealand
How long does it take to get a permanent residence visa for New Zealand?
Every application is different and processing times largely depend on the type of visa being applied for. As a general rule however, it takes most applicants 6 to 12 months to obtain their permanent residence visa for New Zealand, (including the time before lodgement required to prepare the application and arrange any qualification assessment/recognition). Processing can be faster for spousal or job offer-related visa classes. On the other hand, applicants requiring professional registrations may have to count on adding several months to the process.
Click here for latest official processing time guidelines.
What factors can delay my application?
• An existing medical condition (please provide a report from your specialist clarifying the history and prognosis of the condition).
• A criminal conviction listed on your police certificate (please give a written account outlining the circumstances surrounding the offence).
• Work references that do not list your position and the start and end dates of your employment.
• Any custody issues surrounding children that may be included with a residence application.
• Verification work that we may need to carry out from time to time.
Using the Migration Bureau to process your visa can help avoid such costly delays. Contact us today.
Once approved, how long before I must move?
After your initial Expression of Interest, you will be invited to submit your formal residence visa application within the next 4 months. After that, if you are approved, you will be advised in writing to submit your passport and other required documents within 6 months for visa endorsement. After you do that, you will be issued with your Residence Visa which will be valid for one year from date of issue and you (and all person/people included in the application) must make your first entry as permanent residents before the expiry of the single journey residence visa. Please note that later if you leave New Zealand, your residence permit will expire, so you need to obtain a valid Returning Resident's Visa (RRV) to re-enter New Zealand as a resident.
Will the immigration authorities help me to prepare my application and make sure that everything is correct before applying?
No. The authorities exist to enforce the immigration law, make decisions on residence applications and to issue residence visas. They provide basic information and application forms but do not provide independent advice and personalized guidance on your specific case. Only a NZ Licensed Immigration Adviser can provide this kind of service.
Can the immigration authorities refuse my application?
Yes. There are a limited number of places each year and increasing competition for them. Many people are unaware how strictly immigration authorities enforce the application regulations, with visa applications being refused or delayed due to technical errors or the submission of incorrect supporting documentation. Some applicants may simply not understand the application requirements and procedures as they are outlined by immigration authorities. It is recommended that you seek the professional guidance and independent advice of a NZ Licensed Immigration Adviser before lodging your residence visa application.
What is a permanent resident?
Essentially, it is a right affixed into your passport granting you the permanent right to live, work and study in the New Zealand. You are eligible for state medical care immediately, but must be resident in New Zealand for two years before qualifying for social welfare assistance (i.e. unemployment benefits) or any student allowances. Permanent residents are permitted to vote in New Zealand elections. Temporary visa holders (eg. student or work-related) are generally not entitled to medical care or social welfare assistance, so are recommended to take out private health insurance.
When I migrate, will I lose my current passport?
Not necessarily. The New Zealand Government allows dual-nationality (i.e. holding two passports), so you could retain your current passport and obtain a New Zealand passport as well. However, it is recommended to check that your origin country allows dual-nationality, as this right must be reciprocal. If not, you will have to surrender your existing passport in order to obtain a New Zealand one.
How long do I need to live in New Zealand before I can become a citizen?
For new citizenship applications, the main eligibility requirement is that you must have been physically present in New Zealand, and have had your New Zealand permanent residence, for the last five years before applying for citizenship. There are other requirements including English language ability, good character, future intention and comprehension of citizenship responsibilities & privileges.
(Information in this page has been verified by Christine Yap, Licensed Immigration Adviser (IAA) No.200900258 as at 1st July 2011.)
