New Zealand offers several pathways to residency for individuals who want to live, work, and study in the country indefinitely. These resident visas provide a pathway for skilled professionals, investors, entrepreneurs, family members, and others who wish to make New Zealand their permanent home. Here’s an overview of the main resident visa categories available:

  1. Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Resident Visa
  • Purpose: For skilled workers who have qualifications, skills, and experience in fields that are in demand in New Zealand.
  • Requirements: Points-based system that considers factors like age, work experience, qualifications, and job offers. English language proficiency and meeting health and character standards are also necessary.
  • Duration: Grants permanent residency, allowing you to live, work, and study indefinitely.
  • Pathway: Applicants submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) and are selected based on their points score. If invited to apply, they can apply for residency.
  1. Residence from Work Visa
  • Purpose: For individuals who have been working in New Zealand on a Work to Residence visa and want to transition to permanent residency.
  • Requirements: Applicants need to have worked for an accredited employer for at least 24 months, be under 55 years of age, and meet health and character requirements.
  • Duration: Grants permanent residency for eligible applicants.
  • Pathway: Ideal for those who initially came to New Zealand on a Work to Residence visa through the Long-Term Skill Shortage List or Talent (Accredited Employer) visa.
  1. Parent Resident Visa
  • Purpose: Allows parents of New Zealand citizens or residents to live in New Zealand permanently.
  • Requirements: The sponsoring child must be a New Zealand citizen or resident, and meet income criteria to support the parent. The applicant must meet health and character requirements.
  • Duration: Grants permanent residency, allowing parents to live indefinitely in New Zealand.
  • Availability: This visa is subject to a cap and is often in high demand, so places can be limited.
  1. Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa
  • Purpose: For individuals in a genuine relationship with a New Zealand citizen or resident, allowing them to live and work in New Zealand.
  • Requirements: Proof of a stable, genuine relationship with a New Zealand citizen or resident, along with health and character requirements.
  • Duration: Grants permanent residency and allows for work and study.
  • Pathway: Applicants may initially receive a temporary visa before being granted residency.
  1. Entrepreneur Resident Visa
  • Purpose: For individuals who have successfully run a business in New Zealand for at least 2 years.
  • Requirements: Applicants must have been on an Entrepreneur Work Visa, have a well-established and viable business, and meet health and character requirements.
  • Duration: Provides permanent residency, allowing entrepreneurs to continue growing their business and live in New Zealand indefinitely.
  • Fast-Track Option: Residency may be granted after 6 months if specific criteria, like high investment and job creation, are met.
  1. Dependent Child Resident Visa
  • Purpose: Allows dependent children of New Zealand citizens or residents to join them in New Zealand.
  • Requirements: Child must be under 25, financially dependent on the parent, and meet health requirements.
  • Duration: Grants permanent residency, allowing children to live indefinitely in New Zealand with their family.

Key Benefits of New Zealand Residency

  • Indefinite Stay: Residents can live, work, and study in New Zealand indefinitely.
  • Path to Citizenship: After several years as a resident, individuals may be eligible to apply for New Zealand citizenship.
  • Access to Services: Residents enjoy access to publicly funded healthcare, education, and other government services.
  • Family Reunification: Residency can allow for family members to join you through family-sponsored visas.

If you’re interested in pursuing residency in New Zealand and want guidance on the right pathway for your situation, contact us today! We’ll help you navigate the application process and bring you one step closer to calling New Zealand home.