Thursday 20 February 2020
Work to Residency, a pathway to live in New Zealand
It is well known that it is now getting harder and harder to be granted residency in NZ. However, at this stage, there still is a window for pathway to New Zealand residency. This is known as Work to Residency (“WTR”). The policy will change mid -2021.
A Talent (Accredited Employer) Work Visa is granted for 30 months. The persons who can apply for this visa, will have the skills needed by a New Zealand accredited employer. They will have been offered a full-time job by a New Zealand employer.
There is another option to consider by applying for a Long Term Skill Shortage List Work Visa. (“LTSSL”). If you have work experience and relevant qualification for the requirements in the LTSSL, and you are 55 years old or younger, you can apply for a LTSSL Work Visa. This visa is also valid for 30 months. The holder of this type of visa can apply for residency after 2 years of working in an occupation on the LTSSL with a minimum base salary of NZ$45,000 per annum.
The Long Term Skill Shortage List can be found at:
https://skillshortages.immigration.govt.nz/assets/uploads/long-term-skill-shortage-list.pdf
From mid-2021, a WTR Visa will only be available to those who earn twice the median wage, currently $104,000 per annum. There is currently no proficiency in English required for the principal applicant. This is exceptional as nearly all other skilled migration categories require a minimum level of English.
If you wish to apply for the WTR, you should consult with us as soon as practicable.
Contact Teresa Chan (Teresa@tchanlaw.co.nz) or Agnes Sun (agnes@tchanlaw.co.nz).
Teresa Chan
20 Feb 2020
This article is for general use only. Advice should be sought for specific circumstances. Please consult Teresa Chan at Teresa Chan Law Limited, Level 3, Westpac Building, 106 George Street, Dunedin 9016, ph. 477 1069, or email teresa@tchanlaw.co.nz
KEYWORDS: WTR, Long Term Skill Short List Work Visa
