 New Zealand is one of the few countries in the world currently accepting migrants, and welcomes more migrants from the UK than from any other nation.
Getting your New Zealand permanent residence visa can seem a mammoth task, but prospective migrants from the UK have several distinct advantages, including language and compatible qualifications. We have found the New Zealand Immigration Service excellent to deal with, and hope that your experience is similarly positive. As New Zealand-based financial advisers, we mainly deal with the financial aspects of migration and specialise in helping UK migrants to make the most of the financial opportunities they will find in New Zealand. If you need some specialist advice on New Zealand immigration or getting a New Zealand visa, try an immigration consultant - we've listed a couple of companies we have worked with and recommend. There are a number of ways to get your feet on the ground in NZ. The three most popular are: 1. Skilled Migrant Category 2. Active Investor Migrant Category 3. Family Category
1. Skilled Migrant Category If you are of good health, good character (i.e. no criminal background), are under 55 years of age and have a skill needed in NZ this may work for you. You need a minimum of 100 points, and points are allocated if: - You have a permanent job to go to in NZ
- Have skills in an area of skills shortage or identified growth
- Have relevant work experience (minimum 2 years)
- Have a recognised qualification (degree, trade qualification, diploma etc.)
The Skilled Migrant Category is adjusted frequently, and the points required for entry fluctuates. The NZ Immigration Service has an online calculator which can be accessed by clicking on this link . If you have enough points, you can apply online at the New Zealand Immigration Service website. For more information on finding a job in NZ, please see our article on Work and Income.
2. Active Investor Migrant Category The Active Investor Migrant Category came into effect in November 2007, replacing the old Investor Category. It aims to encourage migrants to invest in and contribute their skills to New Zealand businesses. The Active Investor scheme has proven very unpopular with migrants due to the age limits and high level of funds required. There are three streams in the Active Investor Category, each depending primarily on your level of "active" investment in New Zealand. Acceptable active investment has been defined by the Immigration Service as an investment that: is capable of a commercial return under normal circumstances; and is not for the personal use of the applicant(s); and is invested in New Zealand in New Zealand currency; and is invested in lawful business enterprises or managed funds that comply with all relevant laws in force in New Zealand; and is a semi-active or an active investment; and is not (directly or indirectly) invested in residential property development; and has the potential to contribute to New Zealand’s economic transformation goals of innovative, productive, and globally competitive firms.
Global Investors must invest $20 million for four years, with at least $5 million of active investment. Minimum business experience of four years, with no maximum age limit and a 20% minimum time in NZ every year. Professional Investors must invest $10 million for four years, with at least $2 million of active investment. Minimum business experience of four years, and aged up to 64. They must spend at least 30% of their time in NZ every year. General (Active) Investors must invest $2.5 million for four years, with points allocated for active investment. Minimum business experience of four years, and aged up to 54. Minimum settlement funds of $1 million, and 40% minimum time in NZ every year.
3. Family Category If you already have family living in New Zealand, or your partner is a Kiwi, you may well be eligible for permanent residence. Visit the comprehensive New Zealand Immigration Service website for more information. |
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