1101

Expression of InterestGuide

INZ 1101

A guide to help you understand and fill out an Expression of Interest form

For further information on immigration visit www.immigration.govt.nz

July 2010

Information about this guide

You should read this guide before you complete the application form. The guide

gives you information about:

how to decide which visa or •permit you need to apply for

what evidence you need •to provide with your application form

what a visitor’s visa/permit •allows you to do.

Purpose of this guide

This guide relates specifically to step two of the process

outlined on page 3. It provides information to help you understand the terms and requirements of the Expression of Interest Form (INZ 1100).

Skilled Migrant Category Policy

This booklet is only a guide to help you understand the terms as you complete your Expression of Interest form. The authoritative details of the Skilled Migrant Category are contained in the INZ Operational Manual under Skilled Migrant Category Policy. You can read this online at www.immigration.govt.nz.

OvErvIEw OF thE SkIllEd MIGrant CatEGOry

how does the Skilled Migrant Category work?

New Zealand offers many opportunities for skilled migrants, particularly in industries and regions experiencing growth and skill shortages. The Skilled Migrant Category has been designed to give priority to meeting those needs and opportunities.

If you are interested in migrating to New Zealand as a skilled migrant, and if you have the skills we need, then we are ready to work with you to meet our mutual goals.

the prerequisites

To be considered under this category you need to be of good health, good character, have a reasonable standard of English* and be under 56 years of age. You will also need to meet the threshold of 100 points for employability and capacity-building factors to have an Expression of Interest (EOI) accepted.

the points system

The points system is designed to reflect which applicants have the most to offer New Zealand so that Immigration New Zealand (INZ) can extend invitations to apply for residence to them. The points you can qualify for are set out on page 6. Points are available for skilled employment in New Zealand, work experience, qualifications, age and close family in New Zealand. Bonus points are available for employment in identified areas of future growth and/or absolute skill shortage. Bonus points are also available for employment outside Auckland, studying full-time in New Zealand for at least two years towards a recognised New Zealand qualification, gaining recognised New Zealand qualification(s), and for a partner’s recognised qualification or offer of skilled employment in New Zealand.

* Principal applicants (and their partners, if that person is claiming points for a job, job offer or qualification) must have an English-speaking background, or have reached an overall IELTS band score of 6.5. Other secondary applicants 16 years and over must have an English-speaking background, have reached an overall IELTS band score of 5 or pre-purchase a specified amount of English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) tuition.

OFFICE USE ONLY Client no.: Date received: / / Application no.:

Expression of InterestForm

INZ 1100

Skilled Migrant Category


November 2009

Use the guide to help you complete the application form

For help completing this form, refer to the Expression of Interest Guide (INZ 1101).

When you submit this Expression of Interest to Immigration New Zealand (INZ), we will consider offering you an Invitation to Apply for residence in New Zealand only if you meet the following requirements:

character•

health•

English language•

age•

the minimum threshold of 100 points for employability and capacity-building factors.•

The criteria for each of these requirements are explained in this form as per the Government’s Residence Policy (Skilled Migrant Category).

If you are unsure about whether you meet the prerequisites, use the Skilled Migrant Quick Check and the Points Indicator at www.immigration.govt.nz to get an idea of whether it’s worth completing an Expression of Interest.

You must complete all the questions in the form, unless the form specifically directs you straight to another question or section further on. If a question does not apply to you, mark it ‘N/A’ or ‘not applicable’.

If you leave questions that qualify for the award of points blank, this will be interpreted as a ’no‘ answer. If you fail to answer any questions or to mark them clearly as ‘N/A’ or ‘not applicable’, we may send the incomplete form back to you and it will not be submitted into the Expression of Interest Pool until all the necessary information is provided.

Expressions of Interest must be accompanied by the correct Expression of Interest fee.

Do not send supporting documentation with your Expression of Interest form. Include only any additional sheets required to complete questions in the form.

Detailed explanations to assist you to fill out this form can be found in the Expression of Interest Guide (INZ 1101) or on our website at www.immigration.govt.nz.

If you are found to have provided false information or to have omitted any relevant information in your Expression of Interest, any subsequent application may be declined and you will lose the right to appeal any decision to decline your application.

Immigration Advisers Licensing Act 2007

Under the Immigration Advisers Licensing Act 2007, anyone giving immigration advice will have to be licensed (unless they are exempt). From 4 May 2009, all immigration advisers working in New Zealand must be licensed. From 4 May 2010, all immigration advisers, whether working onshore or offshore, must be licensed. It is an offence to provide immigration advice without holding a licence from these dates.

If your immigration adviser is not licensed when they should be, INZ will return your application.

For more information and to view the Register of licensed advisers, go to the Immigration Advisers Authority website www.iaa.govt.nz, email [email protected], or write to them at PO Box 6222, Wellesley Street, Auckland 1141, New Zealand.

Expression of InterestGuide

INZ 1101

A guide to help you understand and fill out an Expression of Interest form


November 2009

Information about this guide

You should read this guide before you complete the application form. The guide

gives you information about:

how to decide which visa or • permit you need to apply for

what evidence you need • to provide with your application form

what a visitor’s visa/permit • allows you to do.

Purpose of this guide

This guide relates specifically to step two of the process

outlined on page 3. It provides information to help you understand the terms and requirements of the Expression of Interest form.

Skilled Migrant Category Policy

This booklet is only a guide to help you understand the terms as you complete your Expression of Interest form. The authoritative details of the Skilled Migrant Category are contained in the INZ Operational Manual under Skilled Migrant Category Policy. You can read this online at www.immigration.govt.nz.

OFFICE USE ONLY Client no.: Date received: / / Application no.:

Expression ofInterest Form

INZ 1100

Skilled Migrant Category

For further information on immigration visit www.immigration.govt.nz November 2009

Use the guide to help you complete the application form

For help completing this form, please refer to the Expression of Interest Guide (INZ 1101). When you submit this Expression of Interest, you may be considered for an Invitation to Apply for residence in New Zealand only if you meet the following requirements:character• health• English language• age• meet the minimum threshold of 100 points for employability and capacity building factors• The criteria for each of these requirements are explained in this form as per the Government’s Residence Policy (Skilled Migrant Category).If you are unsure about whether you meet the prerequisites, use the Skilled Migrant Quick Check and the Points Indicator at www.immigration.govt.nz to get an idea of whether it’s worth completing an Expression of Interest.You must complete all the questions in the form, unless the form specifically directs you straight to another question or section further on. If a question does not apply to you, mark it N/A or Not Applicable.If you leave questions that qualify for the award of points blank, this will be interpreted as a ’no‘ answer. If you fail to answer any questions or to clearly mark them as ‘N/A’ or ‘not applicable’, we may send the incomplete form back to you and it will not be submitted into the Expression of Interest Pool until all the necessary information is provided.Expressions of Interest must be accompanied by the correct Expression of Interest fee.Do not send supporting documentation with your Expression of Interest form. Include only any additional sheets required to complete questions in the form. Detailed explanations to assist you to fill out this form can be found in the Expression of Interest Guide (INZ 1101) or on our website at www.immigration.govt.nz.If you are found to have provided false information or to have omitted any relevant information in your Expression of Interest, any subsequent application may be declined and you will lose the right to appeal any decision to decline your application.

Immigration Advisers Licensing Act 2007

Under the Immigration Advisers Licensing Act 2007, anyone giving immigration advice will have to be licensed (unless they are exempt). From 4 May 2009, all immigration advisers working in New Zealand must be licensed. From 4 May 2010, all immigration advisers, whether working onshore or offshore, must be licensed. It is an offence to provide immigration advice without holding a licence from these dates. If your immigration adviser is not licensed when they should be, Immigration New Zealand will return your application.For more information and to view the Register of licensed advisers, go to the Immigration Advisers Authority website www.iaa.govt.nz, email [email protected], or write to them at PO Box 6222, Wellesley Street, Auckland 1141, New Zealand.

Residence Visa/PermitGuideINZ 1002

under Residence From Work Category, Family Category, and Special Policies


About this guideThis guide is intended to help you complete your Residence Visa/Permit Application (INZ 1000) correctly. It explains the evidence you must provide when applying for residence. You should read this guide along with the Self-Assessment Guide for Residence in New Zealand (INZ 1003), which sets out the policy requirements for people applying for residence in New Zealand.Please take time to read this guide carefully, and refer to it when completing your application form. Numbered boxes like this B9 refer to questions in the application form. Please make sure you answer all the relevant questions and provide all the documents we ask you to, otherwise we may not be able to accept your application. If you are applying for residence while you are in New Zealand on a visitor, work or student permit, you need to make sure your permit is valid when you apply for residence.Help us to decide your application quickly by:reading this guide carefully; and• providing all the required documents with your • application form.For more information and application forms visit our website at www.immigration.govt.nz.

INZ 1002

Who is this guide for?For use by applicants applying for residence under the Residence From Work, Family, Refugee Family Support Category, Pacific Access and Samoan Quota categories.If you wish to submit an Expression of Interest under the Skilled Migrant Category, you can either fill in a paper form (available from an Immigration New Zealand (INZ) office or our website) or you can complete and submit an Expression of Interest form online at www.immigration.govt.nz.If you want to apply for residence under the Migrant Investment Policy, see our Investor Plus (Investor 1 Category) (INZ 1162), or the Investor (Investor 2 Category) Guide (INZ 1164). If you want to apply for residence under the Entrepreneur or Employee of a Relocating Business categories, see our Guide to Applying for Residence in New Zealand Under the Entrepreneur or Employee of a Relocating Business Categories (NZIS 1057).Migrant levyIf your application for residence is successful then you may need to pay a migrant levy before your residence is granted. You can find details of which categories of applicants are required to pay the migrant levy and the amount you will need to pay in our Fees Guide (INZ 1028).More informationYou can get more information and advice from:New Zealand diplomatic and consular offices• Any of our INZ branch offices overseas. We have overseas • offices in Apia, Bangkok, Beijing, Hong Kong, Jakarta, London, Moscow, New Delhi, Nuku’alofa, Shanghai, Singapore, Suva, Sydney and TaipeiAny of our INZ branch offices in New Zealand, which are • located in Auckland, Henderson, Manukau, Hamilton, Palmerston North, Wellington, Christchurch and DunedinAll INZ forms, leaflets and fee information can be downloaded from our website www.immigration.govt.nz.

OVERVIEW OF THE SKILLED MIGRANT CATEGORY

How does the Skilled Migrant Category work?

New Zealand offers many opportunities for skilled migrants, particularly in industries andregions experiencing growth and skill shortages. The Skilled Migrant Category has been designed to give priority to meeting those needs and opportunities.

If you are interested in migrating to New Zealand as a skilled migrant, and if you have the skills we need, then we are ready to work with you to meet our mutual goals.

The prerequisites

To be considered under this category you need to be of good health, good character, have a reasonable standard of English** and be under 56 years of age. You will also need to meet the threshold of 100 points for employability and capacity building factors to have an Expression of Interest (EOI) accepted.

The points system

The points system is designed to reflect which applicants have the most to offer New Zealand so that Immigration New Zealand (INZ) can extend invitations to apply for residence to them. The points you can qualify for are set out on page 6. Points are available for skilled employment in New Zealand, work experience, qualifications, age and close family in New Zealand. Bonus points are available for employment in identified areas of future growth and/or absolute skill shortage. Bonus points are also available for employment outside Auckland, studying full-time in New Zealand for at least two years towards a recognised New Zealand qualification, gaining recognised New Zealand qualification(s), and for a partner’s recognised qualification or offer of skilled employment in New Zealand.

* Principal applicants (and their partners, if that person is claiming points for a job, job offer or qualification) must have an English-speaking background, or have reached an ove rall IELTS band score of 6.5. Other secondary applicants 16 years and over must have an English-speaking background, have reached an overall IELTS band score of 5 or pre-purchase a specified amount of English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) tuition.

2 – Expression of Interest Guide

COntEntS

Information about this guide 1

OvervIew Of the SkIlled mIgraNt CategOry 1

How does the Skilled Migrant Category work? 1

The process 3

Important things you need to know 4

The Expression of Interest form 5

The Skilled Migrant Category points system 6

Next steps 7

Summary Of termS 9

Expression of Interest Guide – 3

the Skilled Migrant Category

You will see from the prerequisites and points system that the Skilled Migrant Category is designed to minimise the risk of a mismatch between the skills migrants bring and the skills New Zealand needs. The highest points will be available to qualified, skilled migrants who are already working in skilled employment in New Zealand. Research has confirmed that such migrants settle more quickly and are able to match their New Zealand counterparts in salary levels and standards of living.

Although a skilled job offer is not a prerequisite, you can see how important it is to consider ensuring that your skills are needed in New Zealand before you sell your home, leave your job and move to New Zealand. Be wary of anyone who offers to guarantee you residence or to sell you a job offer – it may be a fraudulent practice and could result in your Expression of Interest or application being declined. If anyone attempts to bribe an INZ officer the application will be declined and charges may be laid. If you have any doubts, check with INZ – and check the INZ fees before paying any money to an agent, adviser or representative.

the process

This is an overview of how the process operates.

Step one: you can complete an initial self-assessment

A Skilled Migrant Quick Check is available at www.immigration.govt.nz and in the Self-Assessment Guide for Residence (INZ 1003). This will help you decide whether or not it is worth submitting an Expression of Interest.

Step two: you submit an Expression of Interest

You complete and send us an Expression of Interest form. You can get the form from either the INZ website www.immigration.govt.nz or an INZ office. In this you will tell us about your health, character, age, English language ability, as well as the factors that will earn you points. When it is completed, submit it to INZ with the applicable fees, where it will be checked to ensure that all relevant information has been supplied, and that it meets the requirements for entry to the Pool.

If you are completing a paper form you need to send this to:

Expressions of Interest Team Immigration New Zealand DX SR57164 PO Box 3705 Wellington NEW ZEALAND

You can complete and submit an Expression of Interest form online, which is easier to complete and less expensive than submitting a paper form.

Step three: we select Expressions of Interest

Expressions of Interest are submitted into a Pool. Periodically, Expressions of Interest are selected from the Pool as follows:

Expressions of Interest that have total points •of 140 or more will be selected automatically from the Pool;

Expressions of Interest that have a points total •of 100 or more but less than 140, and include points for an offer of skilled employment or current skilled employment in New Zealand, are selected (according to their points ranking) in sufficient numbers to meet New Zealand’s Immigration Programme requirements.

If, following the selection process set out above, further places are available, additional Expressions of Interest may be selected from the Pool on the basis of criteria set from time to time by the Minister of Immigration. These additional selection criteria can be viewed on our website at www.immigration.govt.nz/skilledmigrant.

Once your Expression of Interest has been selected from the Pool, following some checking, you may be invited to lodge an application for residence. Checking will generally involve assessing the credibility of the points that you have claimed.

An Expression of Interest is current for a period of six months from the date of submission to the Pool. If selection(s) of Expressions of Interest occur within the six-month period and yours is not selected, we will automatically withdraw your Expression of Interest at the end of the six-month period. If your Expression of Interest is selected from the Pool but later returned to the Pool by an immigration or visa officer (for example if you are not awarded some of the points you claimed, but still have at least 100 points), your Expression of Interest will also be automatically withdrawn from the Pool, six months from the date it was first submitted.


If your Expression of Interest is withdrawn, you can submit another one if you wish.

If, during the time that your Expression of Interest is in the Pool, there is a change in your circumstances, or in the information that you have provided to INZ, you must inform INZ. If any information is found to be false or misleading we may choose not to invite you to apply for residence.

Step four: we invite you to apply for residence

If you have been successful, we send you an official Invitation to Apply for residence and an application form that already contains your personal details provided in your Expression of Interest. At this stage you will need to send us the signed form, the applicable fees and all the necessary documentation to support the claims you made in your Expression of Interest, such as passports, qualifications and relevant certificates.

Step five: decision-making

We assess your application for residence against Government Residence Policy and look at your ability to settle successfully and make a real contribution to New Zealand’s social and economic development. We also fully verify everything you have told us in your Expression of Interest. Depending on how you are able to demonstrate your ability to settle in New Zealand successfully, you may be issued or granted a residence visa or permit or you may be issued with a work visa or permit which enables you to move from work to residence.

Step six: welcome to new Zealand – we want to stay in touch with you

We will send you a Welcome to New Zealand settlement information booklet which contains details of local Settlement Support New Zealand (SSNZ) organisations which have dedicated local settlement support coordinators. These settlement support coordinators will be your point of contact for settlement information.

want to know more?

Visit www.immigration.govt.nz – the most up-to-date information can be found there. There’s information about all immigration policies, including the other categories in the New Zealand Immigration Programme eg family sponsored migration, business migration or work-to-residence policies. You can access other websites that provide general information about living and working in New Zealand through the INZ website.

Important things you need to know

Providing correct and complete information

When filling out your Expression of Interest, it is essential that you provide correct and complete information and that you do not withhold any relevant information.

Any information you give us may be checked and verified by immigration officers if your Expression of Interest is selected from the Pool. If any information is found to be false or misleading, we may choose to not invite you to apply.

You will also need to advise INZ if there are any changes to the details you have supplied in your Expression of Interest.

Completing all sections of the form

You must complete all questions on the Expression of Interest form. If the question does not apply to you, you must write either ‘N/A’ or ‘not applicable’ in the space provided. This will enable us to know that you have answered all questions relevant to you.

advance Passenger Screening

New Zealand has implemented a system designed to enhance the security of New Zealand’s borders. You may be refused permission to board your flight to come to, or return to, New Zealand if:

you do not have an appropriate visa to enter •New Zealand; or

your visa has expired; or•

your visa has not been transferred to your •current/new passport or the passport being used to enter New Zealand.

To minimise any disruption to your travel plans ensure your travel documents are up-to-date and that you have the appropriate and current visa. If you have any questions check www.immigration.govt.nz.

Importing your car, boat, and household items

You may be able to bring your car, boat, and/or household items to New Zealand. For detailed information on restrictions, and to find out if you must pay Customs charges, see the New Zealand Customs Service website www.customs.govt.nz. For enquiries telephone 0800 428 786 (within New Zealand) or +64 9 300 5399 (outside New Zealand), or email [email protected].


the Expression of Interest form

If you are interested in migrating to New Zealand as a skilled migrant and if you have the skills we need, you need to complete an Expression of Interest.

how do I know whether it’s worthwhile submitting an Expression of Interest form?

A Skilled Migrant Quick Check is available at www.immigration.govt.nz and in the Self-Assessment Guide for Residence (INZ 1003). This will help you decide whether or not it is worth submitting an Expression of Interest.

As you work your way through the Expression of Interest you will find points working spaces alongside key questions. Write your points in these boxes and when you have completed the form, total your points. You must have at least 100 points before you send us the form. If you want to be more certain of your points, we recommend you complete an online Expression of Interest.

who can be included on my Expression of Interest form?

The following people can be included on your Expression of Interest form. These are the people (non-principal applicants) you will want to come to New Zealand with you:

partners•

dependent children.•

As the principal applicant, you will need to supply evidence of your relationship to all the people you include on your Expression of Interest form. A summary description of what we mean when we use these terms can be found at the back of this guide.

who can help me fill out the form?

If you are submitting an Expression of Interest form, you may ask another person to help you. Anyone can act as your agent, adviser or representative. An agent, adviser or representative may be:

a lawyer•

a consultant•

any other person (including a friend) whom you •hire or ask to help you express interest.

INZ treats all applicants equally. We do not give preferential service to applicants’ agents, advisers or representatives.

INZ deals with agents, advisers or representatives in the following ways.

You may give your own address, or the address •of your agent, adviser or representative, as a point of contact for INZ. If you choose to give your agent’s, adviser’s or representative’s address, all correspondence from INZ will be sent to your agent, adviser or representative.

If you stop using the services of your agent, •adviser or representative, you must cancel your authorisation to INZ in writing, or INZ will continue to deal with them. If you hire an agent, adviser or representative, you will have to provide a new authorisation to INZ.

You need to be aware that you are responsible for any documents or information that you submit to INZ, or that your agent, adviser or representative submits on your behalf.

If any person helps you to complete the form – for example by interpreting or translating it, or by completing it for you – they should also sign the form. If you are changing your immigration adviser, please use the form Immigration Adviser Details (INZ 1160).

declaration section

Make sure you read and understand all the declarations before you sign the declaration section of your Expression of Interest form. Please contact your nearest INZ branch if you have any questions about the declaration. Our contact details are at the back of this guide.

declaration for person assisting applicant to complete an Expression of Interest form

If any person has helped you to fill out your Expression of Interest form by explaining, translating or completing it for you, they must sign the declaration. Make sure they read and understand the declaration before they sign it.

Payment details section

To help us process your Expression of Interest as quickly as possible, make sure you complete the payment details section of the Expression of Interest form.

Privacy act section

Make sure you read and understand this section before you sign your Expression of Interest form.


the Skilled Migrant Category points system

This table outlines the points system we use for Expressions of Interest. We have provided a column for you to work out your own points.

factors Pointsyour

points

Skilled employment

Current skilled employment in New Zealand for 12 months or more 60

Offer of skilled employment in New Zealand or current employment in New Zealand for less than 12 months 50

Bonus points for employment or offer of employment

In an identified future growth area 10

In an area of absolute skills shortage 10

In a region outside Auckland 10

Partner employment or offer of employment 20

relevant work experience

Two years 10

Four years 15

Six years 20

Eight years 25

Ten years 30

additional bonus points if work experience in New Zealand

One year 5

Two years 10

Three years or more 15

additional bonus points for work experience in an identified future growth area

Two to five years 10

Six years or more 15

additional bonus points for work experience in an area of absolute skills shortage

Two to five years 10

Six years or more 15

additional bonus points for work experience in an identified future growth area

Recognised basic qualification (eg trade qualification, diploma, bachelor degree with honours) 50

Recognised post-graduate qualification (masters degree or doctorate) 55

Bonus points for qualifications

Two years of full-time study in New Zealand towards a recognised qualification 5

Recognised basic New Zealand qualification (eg trade qualification, diploma, bachelors degree with honours)

5

Recognised post-graduate New Zealand qualification (masters or doctorate) 10

Qualification in an identified future growth area 10

Qualification in an area of absolute skills shortage 10

Spouse/partner qualifications 20

Bonus points for family

Close family in New Zealand 10

Bonus points for age

20 to 29 30

30 to 39 25

40 to 44 20

45 to 49 10

50 to 55 5


next steps

what happens next?

You must meet the health, character, English language and age prerequisites, including attaining at least 100 points for employability and capacity-building factors. (You might need to refer to the summary of terms in the next section of this guide to understand the terms we use below.)

If you meet all these requirements, and you have paid the applicable fee, your Expression of Interest will be accepted into the Expression of Interest Pool.

Expressions of Interest are submitted into a Pool. Periodically, Expressions of Interest are selected from the Pool as follows:

Expressions of Interest that have total points •of 140 or more will be selected automatically from the Pool

Expressions of Interest that have a points total •of 100 or more but less than 140, and include points for an offer of skilled employment or current skilled employment in New Zealand, are selected (according to their points ranking) in sufficient numbers to meet New Zealand’s Immigration Programme requirements.


Once your Expression of Interest has been selected from the Pool, following some checking, you may be invited to lodge an application for residence.

If your Expression of Interest is not selected from the Pool, it will remain in the Pool for six months. If after the six-month period your Expression of Interest has not been selected from the Pool, we will withdraw your Expression of Interest from the Pool and you will receive notification that this has happened. You can submit another Expression of Interest if you wish.

If we have not selected any Expressions of Interest during the six-month period that your Expression of Interest is in the Pool, it will remain in the Pool until a selection has been made.

what happens if I am selected?

If your Expression of Interest has been selected it will undergo a preliminary checking and verification process, to determine whether the claims made in your Expression of Interest

appear credible and legitimate. As part of this process, we may contact the people and organisations you list in your Expression of Interest. You may be contacted and requested to provide additional information or documentation during this period if necessary.

If it is determined that your claims are not credible or legitimate, you will receive notification that your Expression of Interest will not proceed any further.

If it is determined that your claims appear credible and legitimate, you will receive an Invitation to Apply for residence. The Invitation to Apply will specify a time frame of four months within which you may lodge an application under the Skilled Migrant Category. The Invitation to Apply will also specify the documentation that you will need to provide at the time that your application is lodged and the applicable fees. You will also be sent further information to assist you to lodge your application for residence correctly.

how do I lodge an application for residence if I am invited to apply?

You will need to sign and submit a short application form, attach passport photos, the documentation requested in the Invitation to Apply and the applicable fees. This application should be sent to the address specified in your Invitation to Apply.

Documentation required to enable INZ to validate the claims you have made in your Expression of Interest is likely to include the following items.

Passport(s) (for all applicants, if available).•

Birth certificate(s) (for all applicants).•

Marriage certificate(s) (if applicable).•

Custody documentation (for any children, •where applicable).

Police certificates (for all applicants aged 17 •and over, which are no more than six months old when lodged).

Medical and X-ray certificates (for all •applicants, which are no more than three months old when lodged).

Evidence of English language ability (for all •applicants aged 16 and over).

Evidence of a recognised qualification (for you •and/or your partner, if applicable).

Evidence of skilled work experience (for you, if •applicable).

Evidence of a skilled job offer (for you and/or •your partner, if applicable).

Evidence of current skilled employment.•

Other documentation as specified by INZ in •your Invitation to Apply.


In some cases, we will conduct an interview with you covering your employment prospects, your familiarity with New Zealand and the support you are likely to have here.

when should I start gathering the documents I will need if I’m invited to apply for residence?

The documentation required to lodge an application can take some weeks or even months to gather. Documents that can take the longest to obtain are items such as police certificates, qualification assessments from the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) and International English Language Testing System (IELTS) certificates.

It is therefore vital that you begin the process of obtaining these documents as soon as possible.

You must use official INZ forms to obtain medical certificates. To find out about our health requirements, see the leaflet Health Requirements (INZ 1121) available on our website at www.immigration.govt.nz, or from your local branch.

For information on how to obtain a police certificate from a particular country visit www.immigration.govt.nz/policecertificate. Accessing the website is the quickest means of obtaining this information, however if you do not have access to the internet you can either:

call us on 0508 55 88 55 if you are in New Zealand •or (09) 914 4100 if you are in Auckland

contact your nearest Immigration New Zealand •branch.

If, between the time you are sent an Invitation to Apply and the time you submit your residence application, there has been a change in your circumstances, or in the information you have provided to INZ, you must inform INZ.


SuMMary OF tErMSThis section of the guide will help you understand the terms we have used in the form and in the explanations in the guide. We have also included key extracts from New Zealand Immigration policy, which you may find helpful in clarifying our specific requirements.

acceptable standard of health

We consider you to have an acceptable standard of health if you are unlikely to be a danger to public health, unlikely to be a burden on health services and are fit for the purpose of entry to New Zealand.

Please refer to the leaflet Health Requirements (INZ 1121) for more information.

areas of absolute skills shortage

These areas are occupations in which New Zealand has an ongoing and sustained shortage of skilled workers. These are listed on the Long Term Skill Shortage List. You can earn points if you can prove that your current employment or offer of employment meets the specifications of the list and that you are suitably qualified or experienced for the occupation. You can also qualify for bonus points if your work experience and/or qualification are in an area of absolute skills shortage.

SM8.20 Employment in an area of absolute skills shortage

a. A principal applicant is assessed as having employment in an area of absolute skills shortage if:

i. they are employed in an occupation included on the Long Term Skill Shortage List (refer Appendix 6) or that was on the Long Term Skill Shortage List at the time their Expression of Interest was selected; and

ii. the current employment or offer of employment meets the specifications for that occupation; and

iii. they are suitably qualified by training and/or experience to undertake the employment or offer of employment (including any specific requirements set out on the Long Term Skill Shortage List).

b. Skilled employment in an area of absolute skills shortage only qualifies for points if a principal applicant provides evidence that their employment or offer of employment meets the requirements of (a) above.

SM13.20 work experience in an area of absolute skills shortage

a. Recognised work experience is assessed as being in an area of absolute skills shortage if:

i. it was undertaken in an occupation included on the Long Term Skill Shortage List (refer Appendix 6) or that was on the Long Term Skill Shortage List at the time their Expression of Interest was selected; and

ii. it meets the specifications for that occupation; and

iii. the principal applicant is suitably qualified by training and/or experience to undertake that work (including any specific requirements set out on the Long Term Skill Shortage List).

b. Where the Long Term Skill Shortage List specifies that occupational registration is required for a listed occupation, principal applicants must demonstrate that they held occupational registration while undertaking the work experience, if occupational registration is required in the country in which the work occurred.

SM13.20.1 Evidence

Recognised work experience in an area of absolute skills shortage only qualifies for points if the principal applicant provides evidence that satisfies a visa or immigration officer that their work experience meets the requirements of SM13.20 above.

SM16.20 Qualifications in an area of absolute skills shortage

a. If a principal applicant does not have skilled employment in New Zealand in an area of absolute skills shortage (see SM8.20), their recognised qualification will be assessed as being in an area of absolute skills shortage if it is listed as a qualification (or is assessed as comparable to a qualification) in Column 4 of the Long Term Skill Shortage List.

b. If a principal applicant does have skilled employment in New Zealand in an area of absolute skills shortage (see SM8.20) their recognised qualification will be assessed as being in an area of absolute skills shortage if the specialist, technical or managerial expertise required for that employment was obtained through the completion of that qualification.

c. Recognised qualifications in an area of absolute skills shortage only qualify for points if any occupational registration

requirements relating to those qualifications are met (see SM19.15 on page 18).

SM16.25 removal of an occupation from the long term Skill Shortage list

If an occupation is removed from the Long Term Skill Shortage List, Expressions of Interest that have been selected before the removal, which include points for meeting the requirements under SM16.20, will be assessed in the subsequent SMC application for residence as if the occupation was not removed.


Basic new Zealand qualification

A basic New Zealand qualification is a recognised qualification that is on the New Zealand Qualifications Framework at level 4 (New Zealand National Certificate), up to and including level 8.

See ‘New Zealand Qualifications Framework’.

Bonus points

Bonus points are available for employment, work experience and qualifications in identified areas of future growth or absolute skill shortage. Bonus points are also available for employment outside Auckland, studying full-time in New Zealand for at least two years towards a recognised New Zealand qualification, gaining recognised New Zealand qualification(s) and for a partner’s recognised qualification or skilled employment in New Zealand. See ‘Identified future growth area’, ‘Area of absolute skills shortage’, ‘Employment outside Auckland’.

Character requirements

For your Expression of Interest to be considered for the Pool we need to be assured that you are of good character. We have set a number of requirements that help us determine this. See ‘Good character’.

Citizenship

You are usually automatically a citizen of the country in which you were born, but you may also hold citizenship in another country. Your citizenship(s) will be listed in your passport(s).

Close Family in new Zealand

You can earn points if you have a close family member in New Zealand who is a resident or citizen of New Zealand and whose primary place of established residence is New Zealand. This provision recognises that the presence of close family in New Zealand enhances prospects for employability and settlement.

SM17.5.5 Close Family in new Zealand

a. A principal applicant* qualifies for 10 points for a close family member in New Zealand if that close family member:

i. is the adult sibling or adult child, or parent, of a principal applicant*, or of the principal applicant’s partner* included in the application; and

ii. is in New Zealand; and

iii. is a New Zealand or Australian citizen or the holder of a current residence permit that is not subject to requirements under s18A of the Immigration Act 1987.

b. In all cases, a visa or immigration officer must be satisfied that New Zealand is the primary place of established residence of the close family member at the time the application under the Skilled Migrant Category is made.

SM17.5.15 Evidence of relationship to close family member

To obtain points for having a close family member in New Zealand, a principal applicant* must provide:

a. birth certificates, which establish the relationship of the close family member in New Zealand to the principal applicant* or their partner* included in the application, or

b. evidence of adoption (see R3) which establishes the relationship of the close family member in New Zealand to the principal applicant* or their partner* included in the application.

SM17.5.20 Evidence that new Zealand is the primary place of established residence

a. Where required by a visa or immigration officer, applicants must provide evidence that New Zealand is the close family member’s primary place of established residence. Evidence may include an original or certified copy of one of the following:

employment records•

records of benefit payments from the Ministry of Social Development•

banking records•

rates demands•

Inland Revenue Department records•

mortgage documents•

tenancy and utility supply agreements•

b. Each case will be decided on the basis of the evidence provided.


Comparable labour market

A labour market is the commercial environment in which people exchange their work for income and where employers and workers ‘trade’ on the demand for, and supply of, skills. If you do not have skilled employment in New Zealand or an offer of skilled employment in New Zealand, or if your work experience is not in an area of absolute skills shortage, you can only qualify for points for your work experience if it is in a labour market that is comparable to New Zealand.

SM11.10.1 definition: Comparable labour market

a. Work experience is assessed as being a comparable labour market if it was undertaken in one of the following countries by:

i. a citizen or permanent resident of that country; or

ii. a person who had the lawful authority to work in that country.

Australia Iceland Portugal

Austria Ireland Republic of South Korea

Belgium–Luxemburg Israel Singapore

Canada Italy South Africa

Cyprus Japan Spain

Denmark Malaysia Sweden

Finland New Zealand Switzerland

France Netherlands United Kingdom

Germany Norway United States

Greece Phillippines

b. Work experience undertaken in a country not listed at (a) above will be assessed as being in a comparable labour market only if it was undertaken for a multinational commercial entity (including a wholly or majority owned subsidiary of such an entity that bears the same core name as the parent company) domiciled in one of the countries listed in (a) above.

Custody of children

If you are separated or divorced and bringing a child under 16 years with you to New Zealand we will need to see proof of their right to leave their home country and your right to remove them. Section R2.1.45 of the INZ Operational Policy Manual (available online at www.immigration.govt.nz) contains comprehensive policy on child custody.

Customary adoption

In some countries and cultures parents may adopt children without going through a formal legal adoption process. If this applies to your family situation we will require evidence of this adoption.

r3.5.1 Evidence of adoption

b. Evidence of a customary adoption is a written declaration by the adoptive parents stating:

i. that the person has been adopted by them, and

ii. the date of adoption, and

iii. the country in which the adoption took place.

dependent children

Dependent children of a principal applicant are children aged up to 24 years who are unmarried and who have not had their own children (unless your child is under 16 years). They need not live with you but must at least rely mainly on an adult for financial support.

deported

A person has been deported if they leave a country (including voluntarily) while a lawful order for their departure is in force.

domiciled

A company is domiciled in the country where it is permanently located and legally registered. Multinational companies are domiciled in the country where the head office or parent company


is registered. For example, if company A has branches in New Zealand, Australia and Fiji, but the head office is in the United Kingdom, it is considered to be domiciled in the United Kingdom. See ‘Comparable labour market’.

drug trafficking

This means having any involvement in the international trading of illegal drugs.

Employability and capacity-building factors

We have determined a number of factors against which you will be assessed. These factors include current, or an offer of, skilled employment in New Zealand, work experience, age and qualifications. We have allocated points to each of these factors and the total score you gain when rated against them determines whether your Expression of Interest can go into the Pool.

Employment outside auckland

A place of work that is outside the Auckland region attracts bonus points as we want to ensure all of New Zealand can benefit from the skills of people moving here. To earn points, you will need to prove that your employment is outside the six local government areas that make up the Auckland region.

SM9.10 definition: Employment outside the auckland region

Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992 s2

a. Employment is outside the Auckland region if the principal applicant’s entire or principal place of work (as defined in s2 of the Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992) is not within one of the following Territorial Authorities:

Rodney District Council;•

North Shore City Council;•

Waitakere City Council;•

Auckland City Council;•

Manukau City Council;•

Papakura District Council;•

Franklin District Council.•

Note: The Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992 defines a ‘place of work’ as meaning a place (whether or not within or forming part of a building, structure, or vehicle) where any person is to work, for the time being works, or customarily works, for gain or reward; and, in relation to an employee, includes a place, or part of a place, (not being domestic accommodation provided for the employee):

Where the employee comes or may come to eat, rest or get first aid or pay; or•

Where the employee comes or may come as part of the employee’s duties to report in or out, get instructions, or •deliver goods or vehicles; or

Through which the employee may or must pass to reach a place of work.•

SM9.15 Evidence

If requested by a visa or immigration officer, principal applicants must provide evidence that their place of work is entirely or principally outside the Auckland region.


English language requirements

We require people to have a reasonable standard of English to ensure they have the best opportunity to settle readily into work and life in New Zealand.

SM5.5 Minimum standard of English language for principal applicants

a. Applications under the Skilled Migrant Category must be declined if the principal applicant* has not met the minimum standard of English.

b. Principal applicants* under the Skilled Migrant Category meet the minimum standard of English if they provide a Test Report Form (no more than 2 years old at the time the application is lodged*) from the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), showing they achieved an overall band score of at least 6.5 in the IELTS General or Academic Module.

c. Notwithstanding (b) above, a visa or immigration officer may, on a case by case basis, consider the following as evidence of the principal applicant meeting the minimum standard of English if:

i. they provide evidence that their recognised qualification(s):

was gained as a result of a course or courses of study in which English was the only medium of instruction; and•

(if that qualification was gained in New Zealand) the qualification had a minimum completion time of at least •two years or it is a post-graduate qualification and the applicant has an undergraduate qualification that qualifies for points; or

ii. they have current skilled employment in New Zealand for a period of at least 12 months that qualifies for points (see SM7); or

iii. they provide other evidence which satisfies a visa or immigration officer that, taking account of that evidence and all the circumstances of the application, they are a competent user of English. These circumstances may include but are not limited to:

the country in which the applicant currently resides;•

the country(ies) in which the applicant has previously resided;•

the duration of residence in each country;•

whether the applicant speaks any language other than English;•

whether members of the applicant’s family speak English;•

whether members of the applicant’s family speak any language other than English;•

the nature of the applicant’s current or previous employment (if any) and whether that is or was likely to •require skill in English language;

the nature of the applicant’s qualifications (if any) and whether the obtaining of those qualifications was •likely to require skill in the English language.

d. In any case, a visa or immigration officer may require an applicant to provide an IELTS certificate in terms of paragraph (b). In such cases, the IELTS certificate will be used to determine whether the principal applicant* meets the minimum standard of English.

Note: Full consideration must be given to all evidence of English language ability provided before a decision to request an IELTS certificate under SM5.5 (d) is made. If an IELTS certificate is requested the reason(s) behind the decision must be clearly documented and conveyed to the applicant.

SM5.10 English language requirements for non-principal applicants

a. Unless SM 5.15 below applies, partners and dependent children aged 16 and older, who are included in Skilled Migrant Category applications, must:

i. show that they meet a minimum standard of English to enable successful settlement in New Zealand, or

ii. pre-purchase ESOL training, or

iii. provide other evidence which satisfies a visa or immigration officer that, taking account of that evidence and all the circumstances of the application, they are a competent user of English (see SM 5.5 (b)(iv) above).

b. Non-principal applicants meet the minimum standard of English if:

i. they provide a Test Report Form (no more than 2 years old at the time the application is lodged) from IELTS, showing they achieved an overall band score of at least 5 in the IELTS General or Academic Module, or

ii. (if they are the partner of a principal applicant), they have current skilled employment in New Zealand for a period of at least 12 months that qualifies for points; or

iii. they provide evidence of one of the following:

completion of all primary education and at least 3 years of secondary education (that is, the equivalent of •New Zealand Forms 3 to 5 or years 9 to 11) at schools using English as the language of instruction,

completion of at least 5 years of secondary education (that is, the equivalent of New Zealand Forms 3 to 7 •or years 9 to 13) at schools using English as the language of instruction,

completion of a course of at least 3 years duration leading to the award of a tertiary qualification at•

institutions using English as the language of instruction,•

that the applicant holds General Certificate of Education (GCE) “A” Levels from Britain or Singapore with a •minimum C pass (the passes must specifically include the subjects English Language or Literature, or Use of English),

that the applicant holds International Baccalaureate – full Diploma in English Medium,•

that the applicant holds Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English – minimum C pass,•


that the applicant holds Hong Kong Advanced Level Examinations (HKALE) including a minimum C pass in Use •of English,

that the applicant holds STPM 920 (Malaysia) – A or B pass in English Literature,•

that the applicant holds University of Cambridge in collaboration with University of Malaya, General •Certificate of English (GCE) “A” levels with a minimum C pass. The passes must specifically include the subjects English or General Paper,

that the applicant holds South African Matriculation Certificate, including a minimum D pass in English •(Higher Grade),

that the applicant holds South African Senior Certificate, including a minimum D pass in English (Higher •Grade), endorsed with the words ‘matriculation exempt’,

that the applicant holds a New Zealand Tertiary Entrance Qualification gained on completing the seventh form. •

c. In any case, a visa or immigration officer may require an applicant to provide an IELTS certificate in terms of paragraph (b)(i). In such cases, the IELTS certificate will be used to determine whether the applicant meets the minimum standard of English.

SM5.15 English language requirements for partners where bonus points are claimed for the partner’s skilled employment or recognised qualifications

A partner’s skilled employment in New Zealand or recognised qualifications, only qualify for points if the partner meets the English language requirements for principal applicants (see SM5.5 above).

SM5.20 Pre-purchase of ESOl tuition

a. Instead of meeting the minimum standard of English, non-principal applicants may pre-purchase ESOL tuition. ESOL tuition must be pre-purchased from TEC (Tertiary Education Commission) by paying the required charge to INZ (which collects this charge on behalf of TEC).

b. Applicants must pay any ESOL charge due, sign the ESOL Agreement and return it to INZ within the time specified by INZ before a residence visa is issued or a residence permit is granted.

ESOl (English for Speakers of Other languages) training

This is English language training. If a partner or a child does not meet the minimum standards of English, they will need to purchase ESOL training in New Zealand. You need to pay the tuition charge before an application for residence can be granted.

Evidence

Evidence is something you can show us that proves what you are claiming. It may be your birth certificate to prove who you are, it may be a certificate to prove your English language skills, or it may be an X-ray certificate to prove you are in good health.

Expression of Interest (EOI)

The form you are now completing is an expression of your interest in coming to New Zealand to live and work. Completing this form lets you see whether you may be eligible for an Invitation to Apply for residence in New Zealand. It is also your opportunity to present all the information we will need to make an informed decision on whether we invite you to apply for residence.

Expression of Interest Pool

The Expression of Interest Pool is the collection of Expressions of Interest of people who have claimed at least 100 points for our employability and capacity-building factors. Expressions of Interest are entered into a Pool and are ranked from highest to lowest on the basis of their points. It is from this Pool that we select people and invite them to apply for residence. See ‘Points’, ‘Bonus points’.

Expunged criminal records

Expungement of a criminal record is a legal process that can clear criminal convictions from a person’s record.

Full-time employment

Employment is full time if it averages at least 30 hours a week. You can only gain points for skilled employment that is full-time.


Genuine and stable relationship

We need to be satisfied that you and your partner entered your relationship intending to remain in it long-term and to be exclusive to each other. We also need to be satisfied that your relationship is likely to last. See ‘Partner’.

Good character

We consider that a person of good character does not pose a potential security risk and is unlikely to have served time in prison, been deported from any country, or involved in any criminal or dangerous activities.

health requirements

For your Expression of Interest to be considered for the Pool we need to be assured that you are healthy. We make this requirement to safeguard the well-being of New Zealanders and the operation of the country’s health services. Please read the leaflet Health Requirements (INZ 1121) for further details.

Identified future growth area

This is an industry area that offers New Zealand considerable opportunity to increase its prosperity. Currently we recognise three broad areas — biotechnology, information communications technology, and creative industries. You can gain points if you can prove your employment in New Zealand is in one of these areas.

SM8.10 Employment in an identified future growth area

a. As future growth areas are identified they will be listed in this provision. For the purposes of this policy, currently identified future growth areas are as follows:

Biotechnology•

Information Communications Technology•

Creative industries (Advertising, Software & Computing Services, Publishing, TV and Radio, Film and Video, •Architecture, Design, Designer Fashion, Music and Performing Arts, Visual Arts).

b. Skilled employment in one of the identified future growth areas set out above will only qualify for points if the principal applicant provides confirmation from their employer, and an immigration or visa officer is satisfied, that their current employment or offer of employment is in one of those identified future growth areas.

SM13.10 work experience in an identified future growth area

Recognised work experience in an identified future growth area qualifies for points if:

a. the principal applicant has points for current skilled employment or an offer of skilled employment in an identified future growth area; and

b. the experience is relevant to that employment (see SM7.10.10 on page 25).

SM13.10.1 Evidence

Recognised work experience in an identified future growth area only qualifies for bonus points if the principal applicant provides evidence that satisfies a visa or immigration officer that their work experience meets the requirements of SM13.10 above.

SM16.10 Qualifications in an identified future growth area

Recognised qualification(s) in an identified future growth area only qualify for points if:

a. the principal applicant has points for current skilled employment or an offer of skilled employment in an identified future growth area; and

b. the qualification is relevant to that employment (see SM16.10.1).

SM16.10.1 relevance of qualification(s) to skilled employment in an identified future growth area

A recognised qualification is relevant to skilled employment in an area of identified future growth if a visa or immigration officer is satisfied that:

a. the major subject area of the recognised qualification is directly applicable to skilled employment in an identified future growth area that qualifies for points; and

b. the skilled employment is in an occupation for which that qualification is a core requirement.


SM16.10.5 Evidence

Recognised qualification(s) in an identified future growth area only qualify for points if the principal applicant provides evidence that satisfies a visa or immigration officer that the qualification(s) meets the requirements of SM16.10 and SM16.10.1 above.

IEltS certificate

A recent test from the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) can be used as proof that you meet our English language requirements. As principal applicant, you need to have an overall band score of 6.5 or over in the IELTS General or Academic Module. See ‘Minimum standard of English’.

International Qualification assessment (IQa) (formerly Qualifications assessment report (Qar))

This report produced by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) assesses the level of your qualification and includes a full verification of the qualification. We will use this report to help decide if you qualify for points. See ‘New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA)’.

SM14.35 nZQa Pre-assessment results (Pars), International Qualification assessments (IQas) and Qualifications assessment reports (Qars)

a. The NZQA will provide Pre-Assessment Results (PARs), and International Qualification Assessments (IQAs) (formerly a Qualifications Assessment Report (QAR)).

b. A Pre-Assessment Result is a report that compares an applicant’s nominated qualification to a Level on the New Zealand Register of Quality Assured Qualifications. It is made on the understanding that:

i. a pre-assessment result is based solely on unverified information provided by the applicant on the application form; and

ii. no documentation is sighted; and

iii. only one overseas qualification is compared; and

iv. when an application for residence is made*, a full assessment (a IQA or QAR) will be required to determine

whether a qualification (or group of qualifications) will qualify for points.

c. An International Qualification Assessment (IQA) (formerly a Qualifications Assessment Report (QAR)):

i. assesses an overseas qualification (or group of qualifications) by stating the learning outcomes of the closest New Zealand equivalent qualification; and

ii. states the Register of New Zealand Quality Assured Qualifications level of that equivalent qualifications; and

iii. refers to any verification of the applicant’s qualifications undertaken by the NZQA.

Note: From 27 June 2008 the Qualifications Assessment Report (QAR) has been renamed ‘International Qualification Assessment’ (IQA). Both IQAs and QARs are acceptable as evidence to determine whether a qualification will qualify for points.

Issuing authority

This is the government agency of the country or region that issued your document (eg passport or birth certificate).

legal adoption

We need to see proof of adoption. If you have adopted your child through legal means we need to see the original adoption papers — or a certified copy — from the country in which you adopted the child.

long term Skill Shortage list

This is a list of the occupations in which New Zealand has a sustained and ongoing shortage of skilled workers.

Minimum standard of English

There are a number of ways you can show you meet our minimum standard of English requirements, including an IELTS certificate, recognised qualifications taught entirely in English and working in skilled employment in New Zealand. We may also consider other factors such as other countries in which you have lived, other languages you speak and your family’s English skills. See ‘English language requirements’.


new Zealand Qualifications Framework

This register provides the different levels of qualifications in New Zealand and is available at www.nzqf.govt.nz. See ‘Recognised Qualification’.

non-principal applicant

If you are including other people in your Expression of Interest we consider them to be the non-principal applicants. This includes partners and dependent children.

new Zealand Qualifications authority (nZQa)

The New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) is the government agency responsible for quality assurance of qualifications.

Occupational registration

People working in some occupations in New Zealand are required by law to be registered with the professional body of their occupation. Most often registration is required in medical and health occupations but it also applies to a range of business and trade occupations. You will only gain points for qualifications required for these occupations or employment in these occupations if you can prove you have either full or provisional registration or if you are a medical or dental professional and hold written confirmation from the New Zealand Dental or Medical Council that you are eligible for registration subject only to attending an interview with a Council representative on arrival in New Zealand. (You should enter the reference number of the letter stating you are eligible for registration in the Expression of Interest question asking for your occupational registration number.)

Note: For medical practitioners, registration within a ‘special scope of practice’ is not full or provisional registration for the purpose of a residence application.

SM19.5 Occupations requiring registration

In New Zealand registration is required by law in order to undertake employment as one of the following:

Architect Electrician (see note below) Optometrist

Barrister or solicitor Electrical service technician Osteopath

Chiropractor Enrolled nurse Pharmacist

Clinical dental technician Immigration Adviser Physiotherapist

Clinical dental therapist Line mechanic Plumber, gasfitter and drainlayer

Dental hygienist Medical laboratory scientist/technologist Podiatrist

Dental technician Medical laboratory technician Psychologist

Dental therapist Medical practitioner Real estate agent

Dentist Medical radiation technologist Cadastral (Land Title) Surveyor

Dietitian Nurses and midwives Teacher

Dispensing optician Occupational therapist Veterinarian

Note: Electrician — where a current ‘Employer Licence’ is held, an electrician working for that employer does not require individual occupational registration.

SM19.10 Effect of occupational registration on eligibility for points

The requirement for occupational registration to undertake the occupations listed above in New Zealand can affect

eligibility for points for qualifications and offers of employment.


SM19.15 Effect on points for qualifications

a. This section applies to principal applicants whose recognised qualification is required for employment in one of the occupations listed in SM19.5 above.

b. Such qualifications only qualify for points if the principal applicant:

i. provides evidence of full registration in that occupation in New Zealand (if full registration is required to practise in New Zealand), or provisional registration (if only provisional registration is required to practise in New Zealand); or

ii. has current skilled employment or an offer of skilled employment in an occupation that does not require registration; or

iii. has post-qualification work experience in an occupation for which registration is not required in New Zealand, and were employed in that occupation for the same or a greater period of time than in an occupation for which registration is required by law in New Zealand.

Note: For teachers, ‘provisional’ registration includes both ‘provisional’ and ‘subject to confirmation’ registration.

Note: For medical practitioners, registration within a ‘special purpose scope of practice’ is not full or provisional registration for the purpose of a residence application or a work to residence application.

SM19.20 Effect on points for skilled employment

If a principal applicant’s qualifications are affected by registration requirements, the principal applicant’s current skilled employment or offer of skilled employment in New Zealand will only qualify for points if the principal applicant:

a. provides evidence of full or provisional registration in New Zealand, if full or provisional registration is required by law in New Zealand to undertake that employment; or

b. has current skilled employment or an offer of skilled employment in New Zealand (see SM7.10 on page 24) in an occupation that does not require registration.

new Zealand Occupational registration Bodies

1. Architects Education and Registration Board 9. Pharmaceutical Society of New Zealand

2. Dental Technicians Board 10. Physiotherapy Board of New Zealand

3. Dental Council of New Zealand 11. Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board

4. Electrical Workers Registration Board 12. Real Estate Agents Licensing Board

5. Engineers Registration Board 13. Registration Boards Secretariat

6. Medical Council of New Zealand 14. The Survey Board of New Zealand Office of the Surveyor-General Land Information New Zealand

7. Nursing Council of New Zealand 15. New Zealand Teachers Council

8. New Zealand Law Society 16. Veterinary Council of New Zealand.

Occupations treated as exceptions

Some occupations are treated as an exception under the Skilled Migrant Category. An offer of employment or current employment in New Zealand that is in an occupation listed below is eligible for points for skilled employment. See ‘Skilled employment’.

442111 Prison officer•

Offer of employment

This is a job offer from a New Zealand employer made specifically to you.

Ongoing employment

We will consider your employment to be ongoing if you are a permanent employee who is employed either indefinitely or for at least 12 months and with the option for your employment to be extended. Employment is also ongoing if it is on a contract basis and you have consistent history of contract work and such contract work is likely to be sustained. See ‘Skilled employment’.

Partner

A partner of a principal applicant is someone who is legally married, or joined in a civil union, to the applicant or who is living in a partnership that is like a marriage.


The partnership can be between people of the opposite or same sex. The partnership must be genuine and stable.

We recognise partnerships where both partners:

are aged 18 years or over (or have parental/guardian or other consent if aged 16 or 17 years)•

met each other before any residence application was submitted•

aren’t close relatives.•

A partner will only be granted residence if both people in the partnership have been living together for at least 12 months.

Partnership

A partnership exists where you are in a genuine and stable relationship with another person. See ‘Partner’, ‘Genuine and stable relationship’.

People trafficking

Any involvement in moving people illegally into or out of a country.

Permanent place of residence

This is your main residential address. If your permanent place of residence is in New Zealand you will be charged New Zealand Goods and Services Tax (GST) of 12.5% on your fees.

Place of work

A place of work is where you sometimes or ordinarily go to work. It may or may not be part of a building. See ‘Employment outside Auckland’.

Points

You may qualify for points for employability and capacity-building factors. The points system is designed for ranking Expressions of Interest so that we can extend Invitations to Apply for residence to those who have the most to offer New Zealand. The greater the number of points you qualify for, the greater your chance of gaining an Invitation to Apply for residence. You need to qualify for at least 100 points to have a chance of entering the Expressions of Interest Pool.

Police certificates

Certificates you obtain from the police to prove you are of good character. You must obtain these from your country of citizenship or any country in which you have lived for over 12 months in the past 10 years. Anyone 17 years or older included in the Expression of Interest will require a police certificate if you are invited to apply for residence.

Pool

See ‘Expression of Interest Pool’.

Postgraduate new Zealand qualification

A postgraduate New Zealand qualification is a recognised qualification that is on the New Zealand Register of Quality Assured Qualifications at level 9 or level 10. See ‘New Zealand Register of Quality Assured Qualifications’.

Pre-assessment result (Par)

This report is available online from the NZQA and assesses your qualification based only on information supplied by you and without seeing the original documents. If you are invited to apply for residence your qualification will then have to be fully assessed by the NZQA. See ‘International Qualification Assessment (IQA)’.


Principal applicant

You are the principal applicant if you are the primary person making the application for residence. It is you and your skills that we will assess.

recognised qualification

You can gain points for qualifications such as trade certificates, diplomas, bachelor degrees and postgraduate qualifications.

Points

The points you can earn will depend on what level your qualification occupies on the New Zealand Qualifications Framework (NZQF) (providing it is not an excluded qualification). The policy SM14.10 shows how points are awarded for recognised qualifications at various levels of the NZQF. See ‘New Zealand Qualifications Framework’, ‘New Zealand Qualifications Authority’, ‘Pre-Assessment Result’, ‘International Qualification Assessment’, ‘Occupational Registration’.

SM14.5 recognition of qualifications

Subject to SM14.10.5 and SM14.10.10, a recognised qualification is a qualification that a visa or immigration officer is satisfied occupies a level on the New Zealand Qualifications Framework (NZQF) which qualifies it for points by reference to:

a. the level that the qualification(s) occupies on the Register as assessed by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA); or

b. the level that the qualification(s) occupies on the Register as set out in the List of Qualifications Recognised as an Exception (see Appendix 13); or

c. the level that the qualification(s) occupies on the Register as set out in the List of Qualifications Exempt from Assessment (see Appendix 5); or

d. the level that the qualification(s) occupies on the Register having regard to the full or provisional registration of the principal applicant by a New Zealand organisation authorised by law to give occupational registration, if that registration involves an assessment that the principal applicant’s overseas qualification(s) is comparable with a New Zealand qualification that is included in the List of Qualifications Exempt from Assessment.


Note: For teachers, ‘provisional’ registration includes both ‘provisional’ and ‘subject to confirmation’ registration.

Note: The New Zealand Qualifications Framework is available at www.nzqf.govt.nz.

SM14.10 Points for recognised qualifications

Qualifications are recognised and qualify for points as follows:

a. Qualifications assessed as occupying levels nine and ten on the NZQF qualify for 55 points.

b. Qualifications assessed as occupying levels five, six, seven, or eight on the NZQF qualify for 50 points.

c. Qualifications assessed as occupying level four on the NZQF qualify for 50 points by inclusion in the List of Qualifications Exempt from Assessment if they meet the requirements specified in that list.

d. Qualifications assessed as occupying level four on the NZQF qualify for 50 points if they are assessed by the NZQA and are:

i. relevant to an occupation listed at part B or part C of the List of Skilled Occupations (see Appendix 11) and

ii. not included on the list of Excluded Qualifications (see SM14.10.5).

e. Qualifications assessed as occupying level three on the NZQF that are included on the List of Qualifications Recognised as an Exception (see SM14.10.10), and meet the requirements specified in that list, qualify for 50 points.

f. Points are provided for:

i. one qualification only; or

ii. two or more qualifications assessed in combination.

Note: Points for recognised qualifications are not cumulative. A principal applicant may qualify for either 55 points or 50 points.

Note: A qualification will not be recognised if gained while in a country where the principal applicant was either an unlawful resident or required authority to study, but did not have such authority.


SM14.10.1 new Zealand qualifications

Despite SM14.10, SM14.10.5, and SM14.10.10, New Zealand qualifications at level three or four of the Register are recognised and qualify for 50 points if:

a. the qualification would have been recognised for the award of points under Skilled Migrant Category policy that was in effect on 3 February 2008; and

b. the principal applicant gained the qualification before 4 February 2008; or

c. the principal applicant was enrolled in a course of study, resulting in the qualification for which they are claiming points, on 3 February 2008.

SM14.10.5 Excluded qualifications

The qualifications listed below are excluded from recognition under the Skilled Migrant Category and do not qualify for points. This list may be amended by the deletion or addition of qualifications from time to time, as approved by the Minister of Immigration.

Level four qualifications that are not a New Zealand National Certificate (or compared to a New Zealand National •Certificate by the NZQA).

Note: Visa and Immigration officers must ensure that the qualification is a National Certificate or comparable to a National Certificate and may refer to the following for confirmation:

the www.nzqf.govt.nz website,•

written confirmation provided by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) to the Tertiary Education Provider •confirming the qualification is a National Certificate,

a NZQA International Qualification Assessment (IQA), or•

a NZQA Qualifications Assessment Report (QAR).•

SM14.10.10 Qualifications recognised as an exception

The qualifications included in the list held at Appendix 13 are recognised for the award of points as an exception under the Skilled Migrant Category.

Qualifications in this list, awarded by an institution included in this list, do not require assessment by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority.

SM14.20 Evidence

a. Principal applicants under the Skilled Migrant Category must submit their qualifications and provide a NZQA assessment (Pre Assessment Result (PAR), International Qualification Assessment (IQA) or Qualifications Assessment Report (QAR) (see SM14.35)) unless:

i. their qualification(s) are included in the List of Qualifications Exempt from Assessment; or

ii. their qualification(s) are included in the List of Qualifications Recognised as an Exception; or

iii. they have been awarded full or provisional registration by a New Zealand organisation authorised by law to give occupational registration, and registration involves an assessment that their overseas qualification(s) is comparable with a New Zealand qualification that is included in the List of Qualifications Exempt from Assessment.

Note: From 27 June 2008 the Qualifications Assessment Report (QAR) has been renamed ‘International Qualification Assessment’ (IQA). Both IQAs and QARs are acceptable as evidence to determine whether a qualification will qualify for points.

b. If an NZQA assessment is required for an overseas qualification, a PAR is suitable for lodgement of an application under the Skilled Migrant Category, but a QAR or IQA will be required to determine whether a qualification (or group of qualifications) will qualify for points.

c. Applicants with New Zealand qualifications should provide evidence of the New Zealand Register of Quality Assured Qualifications level of that qualification by submitting a ‘Qualification Overview’ report with their qualification. This report can be obtained from the New Zealand Qualifications Authority website (www.nzqf.govt.nz).

d. In the case of a New Zealand qualification that is not included on the NZQF, a letter from the NZQA will be required to determine whether the qualification will qualify for points.

e. In order for a qualification to qualify for points on the basis of full or provisional registration, the certificate of registration, or evidence of eligibility for registration subject only to an interview with a representative of the New Zealand Medical or Dental Council on arrival must also be provided (see SM19.15).


f. If a principal applicant is claiming points for a qualification on the basis of their occupational registration, the qualification(s) qualifies for the points identified for the comparable New Zealand qualification in the List of Qualifications Exempt from Assessment.

g. Despite the fact that the List of Qualifications Exempt from Assessment or the List of Qualifications Recognised as an Exception provides that a specified qualification qualifies for certain points, an applicant or a visa or immigration officer (by requesting the applicant to do so) may seek a IQA or QAR of any particular qualification. Where this occurs, the most recent NZQA assessment will prevail.


SM14.25 list of Qualifications Exempt from assessment

The List of Qualifications Exempt from Assessment is a list of qualifications which may qualify for points without the need for a NZQA assessment (unless SM14.20 (d) above applies).

To view the List of Qualifications Exempt from Assessment see www.immigration.govt.nz/LQEA.

recognised work experience

You can gain points for work experience if it is relevant to your recognised qualification or relates to your current or offered skilled employment in New Zealand. You can gain additional bonus points if you have work experience lawfully gained in New Zealand or that was in an identified future growth area or area of absolute skills shortage. If you do not have current or offered skilled employment in New Zealand, or if your work experience is not in an area of absolute skills shortage, your work experience must have been in a comparable labour market in order for you to claim points. If you are claiming points for skilled employment in New Zealand you must also qualify for points for either a recognised qualification or recognised work experience. See ‘Identified future growth area’, ‘Area of absolute skills shortage’, ‘Comparable labour market’.

SM11.10 requirements for recognition

Work experience is recognised and qualifies for points if it meets the requirements set out at (a) and (b) below:

a. A visa or immigration officer must be satisfied that work experience is:

i. relevant to the principal applicant’s* current skilled employment in New Zealand or offer of skilled employment in New Zealand (see SM7); or

ii. relevant to the principal applicant’s* recognised qualification (see SM14); or

iii. skilled, because it required, or enabled the principal applicant* to gain specialist, technical, or management skills and experience relevant to an occupation that is included in the lists of occupations held at Appendix 11 or Appendix 12.

b. Work experience must also have been gained in a labour market that is comparable to the New Zealand labour market unless:

i. the work experience meets the requirements set out at SM13.20 for work experience in an area of absolute skills shortage; or

ii. the principal applicant* has current skilled employment in New Zealand or an offer of skilled employment in New Zealand (see SM7).

SM11.10.5 relevance of work experience to qualifications

Work experience is relevant to a principal applicant’s* recognised qualification if a visa or immigration officer is satisfied that the qualification was:

a. an important factor in the principal applicant* being able to obtain work or continue or advance in the position or field of work in which they have experience; or

b. an important factor in a career path that has advanced progressively from the principal applicant’s* prequalification work experience.

SM11.10.10 relevance of work experience to an offer of skilled employment in new Zealand

Work experience is relevant to a principal applicant’s* offer of skilled employment in New Zealand if an employer considers, and a visa or immigration officer is satisfied that:

a. the work experience is directly applicable to the employment offered; and/or

b. the offer of employment could not reasonably have been made if the principal applicant* did not have that work experience.

SM11.15 additional requirements for recognition of work experience

a. Work experience only qualifies for points if a visa or immigration officer is satisfied that the principal applicant’s* work experience is lawfully obtained.

b. Work experience will not be recognised if it was gained while in a country where the principal applicant* was either an unlawful resident or required authority to undertake employment, but did not have such authority.


SM11.15.1 Part-time work

a. Calculation of levels of work experience must be for complete weeks based on a 30-hour week.

b. Credit is given for 30-hour weeks only, even though a principal applicant* has worked more than 30 hours in any week.

Example: Fifty-two 60-hour weeks are equal to one year’s work experience.

c. Credit for part-time work experience may be given on a proportional basis.

Example: Four years’ work experience for 15 hours per week is equal to 2 years’ work experience for a 30-hour week, and therefore qualifies for 10 points.

SM11.20 Evidence

Principal applicants* must provide evidence and information that satisfies a visa or immigration officer that their work experience meets the requirements for recognition.

removal order

A legal document that requires you to leave New Zealand and not return for at least five years from the date you depart. Removal orders are served on people found to be unlawfully in New Zealand or where people have their residence or citizenship revoked.

Selection

We make regular selections from the Pool. Periodically, Expressions of Interest are selected from the Pool as follows:

Expressions of Interest that have total points of 140 or more will be selected automatically from •the Pool;

Expressions of Interest that have a points total of 100 or more but less than 140, and include •points for an offer of skilled employment or current skilled employment in New Zealand, are selected (according to their points ranking) in sufficient numbers to meet New Zealand’s Immigration Programme requirements.


Settlement and contribution requirements

You need to show you have the potential to settle in New Zealand and make a contribution socially and economically. In some cases we will assess this by conducting an interview with you covering your employment prospects, your familiarity with New Zealand and the support you are likely to have here.

Skilled employment

Skilled employment is work that requires specialist, technical or management expertise obtained through completing a recognised qualification and/or through work experience.

Points are provided for skilled employment for a third party, not for self-employment in your own business. If you wish to obtain residence by establishing and operating your own business in New Zealand, you should consider the Business categories.

SM7.10 Skilled employment

a. Skilled employment is employment that requires specialist, technical or management expertise:

i. obtained through the completion of recognised relevant qualifications; or

ii. obtained through recognised relevant work experience; or

iii. obtained through the completion of recognised relevant qualifications and work experience.

b. Assessment of whether an occupation is skilled for the purposes of Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) policy is primarily based on the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO) which associates skill levels with each occupation.

Note: The ANZSCO is available at www.immigration.govt.nz/ANZSCO.


SM7.10.1 assessment of whether employment is skilled

An offer of employment or current employment in New Zealand will be assessed as skilled if it meets the requirements of (a), (b) or (c) below.

a. The occupation is included in part A of the List of Skilled Occupations and the principal applicant* can demonstrate that their offer of employment or current employment substantially matches the description for that occupation (including core tasks) as set out in the ANZSCO and:

i. the applicant holds a relevant recognised qualification which is at, or above, the qualification level on the Register (see SM14.5) that corresponds to the indicative skill level described for that occupation in the ANZSCO; or

ii. the applicant has the relevant work experience that the ANZSCO indicates may substitute the required qualification; or

iii. the employment is in an occupation included on the Long Term Skill Shortage List and the applicant meets the relevant requirements specified in column three of the Long Term Skill Shortage List for that occupation.

iv. Notwithstanding a.ii, applicants with Skill Level One Occupations can substitute the required qualification with five years of relevant work experience.

b. The occupation is included in part B of the List of Skilled Occupations and the principal applicant* can demonstrate that their offer of employment or current employment substantially matches the description for that occupation (including core tasks) as set out in the ANZSCO and:

i. the applicant holds a relevant recognised qualification which is at, or above, level four on the Register (see SM14.5) (a qualification at level four on the Register must be a National Certificate); or

ii. has the relevant work experience that the ANZSCO indicates may substitute the required qualification; or

iii. the employment is in an occupation included on the Long Term Skill Shortage List and the applicant meets the relevant requirements specified in column three of the Long Term Skill Shortage List for that occupation.

c. The occupation is included in part C of the List of Skilled Occupations and the principal applicant* can demonstrate that their offer of employment or current employment substantially matches the description for that occupation (including core tasks) as set out in the ANZSCO and has either:

i. at least three years of relevant recognised work experience and a relevant recognised qualification which is at, or above, level four on the Register (see SM14.5) (a qualification at level four on the Register must be a National Certificate); or

ii. at least three years of relevant recognised work experience and that current employment or the position in which the employment is offered, has an annual base salary of at least NZ$45,000.

d. Where a principal applicant’s* offer of employment or current employment in New Zealand does not meet the requirements of (a), (b), or (c) above they may nevertheless qualify for points for skilled employment if:

i. their employment in the occupation will enhance the quality of New Zealand’s accomplishments and participation in that occupational area because the principal applicant has an international reputation and record of excellence in that field; and

ii. the required expertise for the occupation has been gained through relevant recognised qualifications or work experience.

SM7.10.3 Occupations awarded points for skilled employment as an exception

A principal applicant’s* offer of employment or current employment in New Zealand also qualifies for skilled employment points if:

a. it is in an occupation included in the list of occupations held at Appendix 12 (Occupations Treated as Exceptions); and

b. the principal applicant* can demonstrate that their offer of employment or current employment substantially matches the description for that occupation (including core tasks) as set out in the ANZSCO and has either:

i. a relevant qualification which is at, or above, the qualification level on the Register (see SM14.5) that corresponds to the indicative skill level described for that occupation in the ANZSCO; or

ii. the relevant work experience that the ANZSCO indicates may substitute the required qualification.

SM7.10.5 relevance of qualification(s) to employment

Qualifications are relevant to employment if:

a. the major subject area of the principal applicant’s* recognised qualification is directly applicable to the employment; and/or

b. a visa or immigration officer is satisfied that the qualification was a key factor in the employer’s decision to employ the principal applicant* in that position.

Note: For the purposes of this provision, ‘qualifications’ must meet the requirements for recognition set out in SM14.5 (except where SM7.10.3 applies) but are not required to be the same qualification(s) that qualifies for points under the Qualifications part of this policy (see SM14).


SM7.10.10 relevance of work experience to employment

Work experience is relevant to employment if the employer considers, and a visa or immigration officer is satisfied that:

a. the work experience is directly applicable to the employment; and/or

b. the offer of employment could not reasonably have been made or the employment could not reasonably have been undertaken if the applicant did not have that work experience.

SM7.15 additional requirements for skilled employment

a. Skilled employment only qualifies for points if the employment is:

i. full time (employment is full-time if it amounts to, on average, at least 30 hours per week); and

ii. genuine; and

iii. for a position that is paid by salary or wages or in terms of a contract for service (payment by commission and/or retainer are not acceptable), and

iv. accompanied by evidence of full or provisional registration, or evidence of eligibility for registration by the New Zealand Medical or Dental Council subject only to an interview with the relevant registration authority on arrival, if full or provisional registration is required by law to undertake the employment (see SM19.20); and

Note: For medical practitioners, registration within a ‘special purpose scope of practice’ is not full or provisional registration for the purpose of a residence application or a work to residence application

v. the employment was not offered as a result of payment made by the applicant (or their agent) to the employer (or their agent) in exchange for securing that offer of employment. Such practices are contrary to the principles of the Wages Protection Act 1983, as well as to immigration policy.

b. Employment must be ongoing and sustainable. Ongoing and sustainable employment is:

i. an offer of employment or current employment with a single employer and permanent, or indefinite, or for a stated term of at least twelve months with an option for the employee of further terms, and of which the employer is in a position to meet the terms specified; or

ii. employment on a contract basis where the applicant:

has a consistent history of contract work, and•

has a current contract for services, and•

the NZIS is satisfied that such contract work is likely to be sustained.•

Note: When assessing whether employment is sustainable, officers may consider, but are not limited to, such factors as the residence status of the employer, the period for which the employing organisation has been established as a going concern, and the financial sustainability of the employing organisation.

c. In the case of independent midwife practitioners a letter of authority to claim under the Maternity Notice pursuant to Section 88 of the New Zealand Public Health and Disability Act 2000 as well as evidence of admission to the New Zealand Register of Midwives will satisfy the requirements of SM7.5 (b), SM7.15 (a)(i),(ii) and (iii), SM7.15 (b), and can be used to satisfy the requirements of SM4.30.10 (a)(i).

SM7.20 requirements for employers

a. All employers wishing to employ non-New Zealand citizens or residents must comply with all relevant employment and immigration law in force in New Zealand. Compliance with relevant New Zealand employment and immigration law includes, but is not limited to:

i. paying employees no less than the appropriate adult or youth minimum wage or other contracted industry standard; and

ii. meeting holiday and special leave requirements or other minimum statutory criteria, eg occupational safety and health obligations; and

iii. only employing people who have authority to work in New Zealand.

b. To qualify for points, skilled employment must be with an employer who has good workplace practices, including a history of compliance with all immigration and employment laws such as the Immigration Act, the Injury Prevention, Rehabilitation and Compensation Act, the Minimum Wage Act, the Health and Safety in Employment Act, the Employment Relations Act and the Holidays Act.

c. Current employment or an offer of employment does not qualify for points if it is not compliant with all relevant immigration and employment laws in force in New Zealand or if the NZIS considers that the employment of the applicant creates unacceptable risks to the integrity of New Zealand’s immigration or employment laws or policies.

See ‘Occupations treated as exceptions’ and ‘Qualifications recognised as an exception’.


appendix 11 - list of Skilled Occupations

Part a

Skill level One Occupations

The occupations listed below under part A, part B, and part C may be considered skilled employment providing the requirements at SM7.10.1 (a), (b), or (c) are met.

221111 Accountant (General)

211111 Actor

211199 Actors, Dancers and Other Entertainers nec

224111 Actuary

252211 Acupuncturist

131113 Advertising Manager

225111 Advertising Specialist

233911 Aeronautical Engineer

231111 Aeroplane Pilot

234111 Agricultural Consultant

233912 Agricultural Engineer

234112 Agricultural Scientist

231112 Air Traffic Controller

231199 Air Transport Professionals nec

253211 Anaesthetist

261311 Analyst Programmer

234512 Anatomist or Physiologist

121311 Apiarist

121111 Aquaculture Farmer

232111 Architect

224211 Archivist

212311 Art Director (Film, Television or Stage)

249211 Art Teacher (Private Tuition)

212111 Artistic Director

139911 Arts Administrator or Manager

252711 Audiologist

212211 Author

271111 Barrister

121312 Beef Cattle Farmer

234513 Biochemist

233913 Biomedical Engineer

234514 Biotechnologist

212212 Book or Script Editor

234515 Botanist

253312 Cardiologist

253512 Cardiothoracic Surgeon

272111 Careers Counsellor

232213 Cartographer

233111 Chemical Engineer

234211 Chemist

111111 Chief Executive or Managing Director

135111 Chief Information Officer

134111 Child Care Centre Manager

252111 Chiropractor

233211 Civil Engineer

253313 Clinical Haematologist

272311 Clinical Psychologist

139111 Commissioned Defence Force Officer

139112 Commissioned Fire Officer

139113 Commissioned Police Officer

272611 Community Arts Worker

221211 Company Secretary

252299 Complementary Health Therapists nec

211211 Composer

263111 Computer Network and Systems Engineer

234311 Conservation Officer

234911 Conservator

133111 Construction Project Manager

212411 Copywriter

111211 Corporate General Manager

132111 Corporate Services Manager

221212 Corporate Treasurer

121211 Cotton Grower

272199 Counsellors nec

121299 Crop Farmers nec

121313 Dairy Cattle Farmer

249212 Dance Teacher (Private Tuition)

211112 Dancer or Choreographer

262111 Database Administrator

121314 Deer Farmer

111212 Defence Force Senior Officer

252311 Dental Specialist

252312 Dentist

253911 Dermatologist

261312 Developer Programmer

253917 Diagnostic and Interventional Radiologist

251111 Dietitian

212312 Director (Film, Television, Radio or Stage)

212313 Director of Photography

249213 Drama Teacher (Private Tuition)

272112 Drug and Alcohol Counsellor

241111 Early Childhood (Pre-primary School) Teacher

224311 Economist

249111 Education Adviser

134499 Education Managers nec

249112 Education Reviewer

272312 Educational Psychologist

224911 Electorate Officer

233311 Electrical Engineer

233411 Electronics Engineer

253912 Emergency Medicine Specialist

253315 Endocrinologist

133211 Engineering Manager

233999 Engineering Professionals nec

233914 Engineering Technologist

211113 Entertainer or Variety Artist

234312 Environmental Consultant

233915 Environmental Engineer

251311 Environmental Health Officer

139912 Environmental Manager


234313 Environmental Research Scientist

234399 Environmental Scientists nec

221213 External Auditor

134411 Faculty Head

272113 Family and Marriage Counsellor

232311 Fashion Designer

121214 Field Crop Grower

212314 Film and Video Editor

212399 Film, Television, Radio and Stage Directors nec

132211 Finance Manager

222299 Financial Dealers nec

222311 Financial Investment Adviser

222312 Financial Investment Manager

222211 Financial Market Dealer

121212 Flower Grower

231113 Flying Instructor

234212 Food Technologist

234113 Forest Scientist

121213 Fruit or Nut Grower

222212 Futures Trader

224212 Gallery or Museum Curator

253316 Gastroenterologist

253111 General Medical Practitioner

234411 Geologist

234412 Geophysicist

233212 Geotechnical Engineer

121315 Goat Farmer

121215 Grape Grower

232411 Graphic Designer

134299 Health and Welfare Services Managers nec

251999 Health Diagnostic and Promotion Professionals nec

224213 Health Information Manager

251911 Health Promotion Officer

231114 Helicopter Pilot

272411 Historian

252212 Homoeopath

121316 Horse Breeder

251511 Hospital Pharmacist

223111 Human Resource Adviser

132311 Human Resource Manager

225211 ICT Account Manager

261111 ICT Business Analyst

225212 ICT Business Development Manager

135199 ICT Managers nec

135112 ICT Project Manager

263211 ICT Quality Assurance Engineer

225213 ICT Sales Representative

262112 ICT Security Specialist

263299 ICT Support and Test Engineers nec

263212 ICT Support Engineer

263213 ICT Systems Test Engineer

223211 ICT Trainer

232412 Illustrator

224913 Immigration Consultant

133311 Importer or Exporter

232312 Industrial Designer

233511 Industrial Engineer

251512 Industrial Pharmacist

224999 Information and Organisation Professionals nec

224411 Intelligence Officer

253317 Intensive Care Specialist

232511 Interior Designer

241311 Intermediate School Teacher

221214 Internal Auditor

272412 Interpreter

232313 Jewellery Designer

212499 Journalists and Other Writers nec

271211 Judge

271299 Judicial and Other Legal Professionals nec

241112 Kaiako Kohanga Reo (Maori Language Nest Teacher)

241211 Kaiako Kura Kaupapa Maori (Maorimedium Primary School Teacher)

139913 Laboratory Manager

224511 Land Economist

232112 Landscape Architect

111399 Legislators nec

224912 Liaison Officer

224611 Librarian

234511 Life Scientist (General)

234599 Life Scientists nec

121399 Livestock Farmers nec

111311 Local Government Legislator

271212 Magistrate

221112 Management Accountant

224711 Management Consultant

133411 Manufacturer

234516 Marine Biologist

233916 Marine Designer

231299 Marine Transport Professionals nec

121221 Market Gardener

225112 Market Research Analyst

225113 Marketing Specialist

231211 Master Fisher

233112 Materials Engineer

224112 Mathematician

233512 Mechanical Engineer

212112 Media Producer (excluding Video)

251211 Medical Diagnostic Radiographer

234611 Medical Laboratory Scientist

253314 Medical Oncologist

253999 Medical Practitioners nec

251212 Medical Radiation Therapist

134211 Medical Superintendent

111312 Member of Parliament

234912 Metallurgist

234913 Meteorologist

234517 Microbiologist

254111 Midwife

233611 Mining Engineer (excluding Petroleum)

272211 Minister of Religion

121411 Mixed Crop and Livestock Farmer

121216 Mixed Crop Farmer

121317 Mixed Livestock Farmer


232413 Multimedia Designer

261211 Multimedia Specialist

211212 Music Director

211299 Music Professionals nec

249214 Music Teacher (Private Tuition)

211213 Musician (Instrumental)

234999 Natural and Physical Science Professionals nec

252213 Naturopath

263112 Network Administrator

263113 Network Analyst

253318 Neurologist

253513 Neurosurgeon

212412 Newspaper or Periodical Editor

251213 Nuclear Medicine Technologist

254211 Nurse Educator

254311 Nurse Manager

254411 Nurse Practitioner

254212 Nurse Researcher

134212 Nursing Clinical Director

253913 Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

251312 Occupational Health and Safety Adviser

252411 Occupational Therapist

253914 Ophthalmologist

251411 Optometrist

224712 Organisation and Methods Analyst

272313 Organisational Psychologist

253514 Orthopaedic Surgeon

251412 Orthoptist

251912 Orthotist or Prosthetist

252112 Osteopath

253515 Otorhinolaryngologist

253516 Paediatric Surgeon

253321 Paediatrician

211411 Painter (Visual Arts)

234314 Park Ranger

224914 Patents Examiner

253915 Pathologist

233612 Petroleum Engineer

211311 Photographer

234914 Physicist

252511 Physiotherapist

121318 Pig Farmer

253517 Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon

252611 Podiatrist

224412 Policy Analyst

132411 Policy and Planning Manager

242211 Polytechnic Teacher

211412 Potter or Ceramic Artist

241212 Pouako Kura Kaupapa Maori (Maorimedium Primary School Senior Teacher)

121321 Poultry Farmer

134213 Primary Health Organisation Manager

241213 Primary School Teacher

212413 Print Journalist

249299 Private Tutors and Teachers nec

133511 Production Manager (Forestry)

133512 Production Manager (Manufacturing)

133513 Production Manager (Mining)

233513 Production or Plant Engineer

212315 Program Director (Television or Radio)

133112 Project Builder

253411 Psychiatrist

272399 Psychologists nec

272314 Psychotherapist

131114 Public Relations Manager

225311 Public Relations Professional

139914 Quality Assurance Manager

233213 Quantity Surveyor

253918 Radiation Oncologist

212414 Radio Journalist

212113 Radio Presenter

224214 Records Manager

272612 Recreation Coordinator

223112 Recruitment Consultant

134412 Regional Education Manager

254412 Registered Nurse (Aged Care)

254413 Registered Nurse (Child and Family Health)

254414 Registered Nurse (Community Health)

254415 Registered Nurse (Critical Care and Emergency)

254416 Registered Nurse (Developmental Disability)

254417 Registered Nurse (Disability and Rehabilitation)

254421 Registered Nurse (Medical Practice)

254418 Registered Nurse (Medical)

254422 Registered Nurse (Mental Health)

254423 Registered Nurse (Perioperative)

254424 Registered Nurse (Surgical)

254499 Registered Nurses nec

272114 Rehabilitation Counsellor

253322 Renal Medicine Specialist

132511 Research and Development Manager

253112 Resident Medical Officer

251513 Retail Pharmacist

253323 Rheumatologist

131112 Sales and Marketing Manager

225411 Sales Representative (Industrial Products)

225412 Sales Representative (Medical and Pharmaceutical Products)

134311 School Principal

211413 Sculptor

241411 Secondary School Teacher

139211 Senior Non-commissioned Defence Force Member

121322 Sheep Farmer

231212 Ship’s Engineer

231213 Ship’s Master

231214 Ship’s Officer

231215 Ship’s Surveyor

211214 Singer

272499 Social Professionals nec

272511 Social Worker

261399 Software and Applications Programmers nec

261313 Software Engineer

261314 Software Tester

271311 Solicitor


251214 Sonographer

232214 Spatial Scientist (Other)

241599 Special Education Teachers nec

241511 Special Needs Teacher

139999 Specialist Managers nec

253311 Specialist Physician (General Medicine)

253399 Specialist Physicians nec

252712 Speech Language Therapist

139915 Sports Administrator

212316 Stage Manager

224113 Statistician

222213 Stockbroking Dealer

233214 Structural Engineer

272115 Student Counsellor

121217 Sugar Cane Grower

133611 Supply and Distribution Manager

253511 Surgeon (General)

232212 Surveyor

262113 Systems Administrator

261112 Systems Analyst

221113 Taxation Accountant

249311 Teacher of English to Speakers of Other Languages

241512 Teacher of the Hearing Impaired

241513 Teacher of the Sight Impaired

212317 Technical Director

225499 Technical Sales Representatives nec

212415 Technical Writer

263311 Telecommunications Engineer

263312 Telecommunications Network Engineer

212416 Television Journalist

212114 Television Presenter

253324 Thoracic Medicine Specialist

252214 Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner

252215 Traditional Maori Health Practitioner

223311 Training and Development Professional

272413 Translator

233215 Transport Engineer

271213 Tribunal Member

121218 Turf Grower

242111 University Lecturer

242112 University Tutor

232611 Urban and Regional Planner

253518 Urologist

224512 Valuer

253521 Vascular Surgeon

234711 Veterinarian

212318 Video Producer

211499 Visual Arts and Crafts Professionals nec

232414 Web Designer

261212 Web Developer

134214 Welfare Centre Manager

272613 Welfare Worker

133312 Wholesaler

234213 Wine Maker

223113 Workplace Relations Adviser

234518 Zoologist

Skill level two Occupations

411511 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Worker

141999 Accommodation and Hospitality Managers nec

311111 Agricultural Technician

411111 Ambulance Officer

411112 Ambulance Paramedic

149111 Amusement Centre Manager

311211 Anaesthetic Technician

142112 Antique Dealer

312199 Architectural, Building and Surveying Technicians nec

312111 Architectural Draftsperson

141911 Bed and Breakfast Operator

142113 Betting Agency Manager

149911 Boarding Kennel or Cattery Operator

312999 Building and Engineering Technicians nec

312112 Building Associate

312113 Building Inspector

141111 Cafe or Restaurant Manager

149211 Call or Contact Centre Manager

141211 Caravan Park and Camping Ground Manager

311212 Cardiac Technician

351311 Chef

311411 Chemistry Technician

149912 Cinema or Theatre Manager

312211 Civil Engineering Draftsperson

312212 Civil Engineering Technician

222111 Commodities Trader

411711 Community Worker

149311 Conference and Event Organiser

312114 Construction Estimator

511111 Contract Administrator

599111 Conveyancer

149212 Customer Service Manager

411211 Dental Hygienist

411212 Dental Prosthetist

411213 Dental Technician

411214 Dental Therapist

441311 Detective

411712 Disabilities Services Officer

311412 Earth Science Technician

312311 Electrical Engineering Draftsperson

312312 Electrical Engineering Technician

312411 Electronic Engineering Draftsperson

312412 Electronic Engineering Technician

411411 Enrolled Nurse

149915 Equipment Hire Manager

149913 Facilities Manager

411713 Family Support Worker

222112 Finance Broker

222199 Financial Brokers nec

149914 Financial Institution Branch Manager

311311 Fisheries Officer

149112 Fitness Centre Manager

149411 Fleet Manager

451311 Funeral Director


399311 Gallery or Museum Technician

142114 Hair or Beauty Salon Manager

313111 Hardware Technician

512211 Health Practice Manager

149999 Hospitality, Retail and Service Managers nec

141311 Hotel or Motel Manager

313112 ICT Customer Support Officer

313199 ICT Support Technicians nec

222113 Insurance Broker

399912 Interior Decorator

411512 Kaiawhina (Hauora) (Maori Health Assistant)

599112 Legal Executive

399312 Library Technician

141411 Licensed Club Manager

311413 Life Science Technician

312911 Maintenance Planner

411611 Massage Therapist

311312 Meat Inspector

312511 Mechanical Engineering Draftsperson

312512 Mechanical Engineering Technician

311213 Medical Laboratory Technician

311299 Medical Technicians nec

312912 Metallurgical or Materials Technician

312913 Mine Deputy

411412 Mothercraft Nurse

512111 Office Manager

311214 Operating Theatre Technician

411714 Parole or Probation Officer

311215 Pharmacy Technician

312115 Plumbing Inspector

441312 Police Officer

142115 Post Office Manager

512299 Practice Managers nec

311399 Primary Products Inspectors nec

511112 Program or Project Administrator

311313 Quarantine Officer

313211 Radiocommunications Technician

149412 Railway Station Manager

612113 Real Estate Agency Licensee

411715 Residential Care Officer

142111 Retail Manager (General)

141912 Retirement Village Manager

312611 Safety Inspector

311414 School Laboratory Technician

311499 Science Technicians nec

149113 Sports Centre Manager

452321 Sports Development Officer

312116 Surveying or Spatial Science Technician

313212 Telecommunications Field Engineer

313213 Telecommunications Network Planner

313214 Telecommunications Technical Officer or Technologist

149413 Transport Company Manager

142116 Travel Agency Manager

313113 Web Administrator

411716 Youth Worker

Part B334112 Airconditioning and Mechanical Services Plumber

342111 Airconditioning and Refrigeration Mechanic

323111 Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (Avionics)

323112 Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (Mechanical)

323113 Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (Structures)

393211 Apparel Cutter

321111 Automotive Electrician

351111 Baker

322111 Blacksmith

399111 Boat Builder and Repairer

331111 Bricklayer

399511 Broadcast Transmitter Operator

342311 Business Machine Mechanic

351211 Butcher or Smallgoods Maker

394111 Cabinetmaker

342411 Cabler (Data and Telecommunications)

399512 Camera Operator (Film, Television or Video)

393111 Canvas Goods Fabricator

331212 Carpenter

331211 Carpenter and Joiner

399211 Chemical Plant Operator

393212 Clothing Patternmaker

342312 Communications Operator

441111 Defence Force Member - Other Ranks

321212 Diesel Motor Mechanic

399911 Diver

334113 Drainlayer

393213 Dressmaker or Tailor

342211 Electrical Line Mechanic

341111 Electrician (General)

341112 Electrician (Special Class)

342313 Electronic Equipment Trades Worker

342314 Electronic Instrument Trades Worker (General)

342315 Electronic Instrument Trades Worker (Special Class)

322112 Electroplater

441211 Emergency Service Worker

323411 Engineering Patternmaker

323311 Engraver

322113 Farrier

333211 Fibrous Plasterer

441212 Fire Fighter

399918 Fire Protection Equipment Technician

323211 Fitter (General)

323212 Fitter and Turner

323213 Fitter-Welder

332111 Floor Finisher

394211 Furniture Finisher

399212 Gas or Petroleum Operator

334114 Gasfitter

333111 Glazier

392211 Graphic Pre-press Trades Worker

323312 Gunsmith

391111 Hairdresser

399411 Jeweller


331213 Joiner

393112 Leather Goods Maker

341113 Lift Mechanic

399513 Light Technician

323313 Locksmith

322114 Metal Casting Trades Worker

322311 Metal Fabricator

323299 Metal Fitters and Machinists nec

323214 Metal Machinist (First Class)

322115 Metal Polisher

321211 Motor Mechanic (General)

321213 Motorcycle Mechanic

399515 Musical Instrument Maker or Repairer

399914 Optical Mechanic

332211 Painting Trades Worker

324111 Panelbeater

351112 Pastrycook

399599 Performing Arts Technicians nec

394212 Picture Framer

399916 Plastics Technician

334111 Plumber (General)

399213 Power Generation Plant Operator

323314 Precision Instrument Maker and Repairer

322312 Pressure Welder

392111 Print Finisher

392311 Printing Machinist

334115 Roof Plumber

333311 Roof Tiler

393113 Sail Maker

323315 Saw Maker and Repairer

392112 Screen Printer

322211 Sheetmetal Trades Worker

399112 Shipwright

393114 Shoemaker

399611 Signwriter

321214 Small Engine Mechanic

392312 Small Offset Printer

333212 Solid Plasterer

399516 Sound Technician

331112 Stonemason

342212 Technical Cable Jointer

399999 Technicians and Trades Workers nec

342412 Telecommunications Cable Jointer

342413 Telecommunications Line Mechanic

342414 Telecommunications Technician

399517 Television Equipment Operator

323215 Textile, Clothing and Footwear Mechanic

323412 Toolmaker

393311 Upholsterer

324211 Vehicle Body Builder

324311 Vehicle Painter

324212 Vehicle Trimmer

333411 Wall and Floor Tiler

323316 Watch and Clock Maker and Repairer

322313 Welder

394213 Wood Machinist

394299 Wood Machinists and Other Wood Trades Workers nec

394214 Wood Turner

Part C361199 Animal Attendants and Trainers nec

362212 Arborist

611111 Auctioneer

612111 Business Broker

541111 Call or Contact Centre Team Leader

599211 Clerk of Court

599915 Clinical Coder

393299 Clothing Trades Workers nec

351411 Cook

599212 Court Collections Officer

599213 Court Registry Officer

399913 Dispensing Optician

411311 Diversional Therapist

452311 Diving Instructor (Open Water)

361111 Dog Handler or Trainer

452318 Dog or Horse Racing Official

451211 Driving Instructor

451815 First Aid Trainer

451711 Flight Attendant

362111 Florist

452411 Footballer

451399 Funeral Workers nec

362211 Gardener (General)

452412 Golfer

362311 Greenkeeper

452312 Gymnastics Coach or Instructor

452313 Horse Riding Coach or Instructor

361112 Horse Trainer

431411 Hotel Service Manager

611211 Insurance Agent

599611 Insurance Investigator

599612 Insurance Loss Adjuster

599613 Insurance Risk Surveyor

452413 Jockey

599214 Law Clerk

521212 Legal Secretary

452414 Lifeguard

399514 Make Up Artist

362411 Nurseryperson

452317 Other Sports Coach or Instructor

452323 Other Sports Official

521111 Personal Assistant

361113 Pet Groomer

311216 Phlebotomist

399915 Photographer’s Assistant

612112 Property Manager

612114 Real Estate Agent

612115 Real Estate Representative

639211 Retail Buyer

521211 Secretary (General)

442216 Security Consultant

361211 Shearer


452314 Snowsport Instructor

452322 Sports Umpire

452499 Sportspersons nec

611112 Stock and Station Agent

452315 Swimming Coach or Instructor

452316 Tennis Coach

451799 Travel Attendants nec

599215 Trust Officer

361311 Veterinary Nurse

639212 Wool Buyer

399917 Wool Classer

361114 Zookeeper

Note: nec is the abbreviation of ‘not elsewhere classified’.

Skilled migrant

We consider a skilled migrant to be a person who wants to come and live and work in New Zealand, and who has the skills that New Zealand needs to help it prosper nationally and internationally.

the tertiary Education Commission (tEC)

The Tertiary Education Commission. The Commission is responsible for co-ordinating ESOL tuition of non-principal applicants choosing to use the tuition option to meet the English requirement. See ESOL.

two years’ study

Two years of full-time study in New Zealand towards a recognised New Zealand qualification must be completed in no less than four semesters during a period of at least 16 months to gain points.

SM15.5.1 definition of ‘full-time study’ for the purpose of the Skilled Migrant Category

For the purposes of awarding bonus points for two years of full-time study in New Zealand towards a recognised New Zealand qualification under the SMC, study undertaken in New Zealand is defined as full-time where:

a. an undergraduate student at a tertiary education institution was enrolled in at least three papers per semester; or

b. a post-graduate student at a tertiary education institution was enrolled in either a course of study:

i. that resulted in at least 100 credits per calendar year; or

ii. with a workload of at least 20 hours per week; or

c. a student at a private training establishment was enrolled in a course of study that required attendance for a minimum of 20 hours per week.

work experience in new Zealand

You can gain additional bonus points if you can show evidence of lawful recognised work experience in New Zealand.

work to residence (wr)

Principal applicants under the Skilled Migrant Category who do not meet the requirements to be granted residence, but who are assessed as having potential to settle successfully in New Zealand, can be issued a permit to work in New Zealand for up to nine months. The purpose of the work permit is to enable applicants to establish themselves in ongoing skilled employment in New Zealand. Work visas and/or permits issued and/or granted under this policy will allow work for any employer in New Zealand. At the end of the nine-month period, if you have become established in full-time employment, residence can be granted.


lISt OF tErMSAcceptable standard of health 9

Areas of absolute skills shortage 9

Basic New Zealand qualification 10

Bonus points 10

Character requirements 10

Citizenship 10

Close Family in New Zealand 10

Comparable labour market 11

Custody of children 11

Customary adoption 11

Dependent children 11

Deported 11

Domiciled 11

Drug trafficking 12

Employability and capacity-building factors 12

Employment outside Auckland 12

English language requirements 13

ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) training 14

Evidence 14

Expression of Interest (EOI) 14

Expression of Interest Pool 14

Expunged criminal records 14

Full-time employment 14

Genuine and stable relationship 15

Good character 15

Health requirements 15

Identified future growth area 15

IELTS certificate 16

International Qualification Assessment (IQA) (formerly Qualifications Assessment Report (QAR)) 16

Issuing authority 16

Legal adoption 16

Long Term Skill Shortage List 16

Minimum standard of English 16

New Zealand Register of Quality Assured Qualifications 17

Non-principal applicant 17

New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) 17

Occupational registration 17

Occupations treated as exceptions 18


Offer of employment 18

Ongoing employment 18

Partner 18

Partnership 19

People trafficking 19

Permanent place of residence 19

Place of work 19

Points 19

Police certificates 19

Pool 19

Postgraduate New Zealand qualification 19

Pre-Assessment Result (PAR) 19

Principal applicant 20

Recognised qualification 20

Recognised work experience 22

Removal order 23

Selection 23

Settlement and contribution requirements 23

Skilled employment 23

Skilled migrant 32

The Tertiary Education Commission (TEC) 32

Two years’ study 32

Work experience in New Zealand 32

Work to residence (WR) 32

