Wellington

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Residency and Visas

Overview of residency, visa requirements, and government services for immigrants in New Zealand.

Sections

1. Visa and Residency Categories

New Zealand offers a variety of visa and residency options depending on your purpose of stay. Below are the main categories relevant to Wellington:

A. Temporary Visas

  1. Visitor Visa

    • Purpose: For short-term visits (up to 9 months) for tourism, family visits, or business.
    • Cost: NZD $246 (online application).
    • Processing Time: 20–30 days.
    • Requirements:
      • Proof of sufficient funds (NZD $1,000 per month or NZD $400 if accommodation is prepaid).
      • Return ticket or proof of onward travel.
      • Valid passport (at least 3 months beyond your intended departure date).
    • Cultural Tip: New Zealanders value politeness and respect for local customs. Be mindful of Māori cultural practices, such as greetings and respecting sacred sites.

  2. Work Visa

    • Purpose: For individuals with a job offer or specific skills in demand.
    • Types:
      • Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV): For those with a job offer from an accredited employer.
      • Working Holiday Visa: For young people (18–30 or 35, depending on your country) to work and travel for up to 12 months.
    • Cost: NZD $750–$1,000 (varies by visa type).
    • Processing Time: 20–60 days.
    • Requirements:
      • Job offer (for AEWV).
      • Proof of qualifications and/or work experience.
      • Health and character checks (police certificate and medical exam).

  3. Student Visa

    • Purpose: For international students enrolled in a full-time course in New Zealand.
    • Cost: NZD $375 (online application).
    • Processing Time: 4–6 weeks.
    • Requirements:
      • Offer of place from a New Zealand educational institution.
      • Proof of funds (NZD $15,000 per year for living expenses).
      • Health insurance.
    • Cultural Tip: Wellington is known for its inclusive and diverse student community. Engage in local events and student groups to integrate into the culture.

B. Residency Visas

  1. Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Resident Visa

    • Purpose: For skilled workers who meet the points-based system criteria.
    • Cost: NZD $4,950.
    • Processing Time: 12–18 months.
    • Requirements:
      • Minimum of 180 points (based on age, qualifications, work experience, and job offer in New Zealand).
      • English language proficiency (IELTS or equivalent).
      • Health and character checks.

  2. Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa

    • Purpose: For partners of New Zealand citizens or residents.
    • Cost: NZD $2,100.
    • Processing Time: 6–12 months.
    • Requirements:
      • Proof of a genuine and stable relationship (e.g., joint bank accounts, shared bills, photos).
      • Health and character checks.

  3. Investor and Entrepreneur Visas

    • Investor Visa: For individuals investing NZD $3 million or more in New Zealand.
    • Entrepreneur Visa: For those starting or buying a business in New Zealand.
    • Cost: NZD $4,960–$5,280.
    • Processing Time: 12–24 months.
    • Requirements:
      • Detailed business or investment plan.
      • Proof of funds and source of income.
      • Health and character checks.

  4. Parent Resident Visa

    • Purpose: For parents of New Zealand citizens or residents.
    • Cost: NZD $4,980.
    • Processing Time: Varies (limited quota).
    • Requirements:
      • Sponsorship by an adult child who meets income thresholds.

2. Application Procedures

  1. Step 1: Determine Eligibility

    • Use the New Zealand Immigration (INZ) website’s Visa Options tool to find the right visa for your situation.

  2. Step 2: Gather Required Documentation

    • Common documents include:
      • Valid passport.
      • Proof of funds.
      • Job offer or enrollment letter (if applicable).
      • Health and character certificates.
      • English language test results (if required).

  3. Step 3: Submit Application

    • Most applications can be submitted online via the INZ website.
    • Paper applications are also accepted for certain visa types.

  4. Step 4: Wait for Processing

    • Processing times vary by visa type. Check the INZ website for updates.

  5. Step 5: Receive Decision

    • If approved, you will receive a visa label or eVisa.

3. Costs Overview

| Visa Type | Cost (NZD) | Processing Time | |--------------------------------|----------------|----------------------| | Visitor Visa | $246 | 20–30 days | | Work Visa (AEWV) | $750–$1,000 | 20–60 days | | Student Visa | $375 | 4–6 weeks | | Skilled Migrant Resident Visa | $4,950 | 12–18 months | | Partner Resident Visa | $2,100 | 6–12 months | | Investor Visa | $4,960–$5,280 | 12–24 months |

4. Local Services and Offices

  1. Immigration New Zealand (INZ) Wellington Office

    • Address: 110 Featherston Street, Wellington Central, Wellington 6011.
    • Services: Visa inquiries, document submission, and general assistance.
    • Website: www.immigration.govt.nz

  2. Community Law Wellington

    • Address: Level 2, 84 Willis Street, Wellington.
    • Services: Free legal advice, including immigration matters.
    • Website: www.wclc.org.nz

  3. Settlement Support Services

    • Provider: Wellington City Council.
    • Services: Help with finding housing, employment, and community integration.
    • Website: www.wellington.govt.nz

  4. Migrant Support Services

    • Provider: Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB).
    • Address: 101 Wakefield Street, Wellington.
    • Services: Free advice on immigration, housing, and employment.
    • Website: www.cab.org.nz

5. Cultural Tips for Settling in Wellington

  1. Embrace the Weather: Wellington is known for its windy climate. Invest in a good windproof jacket and enjoy the city’s outdoor lifestyle.
  2. Public Transport: The city has an efficient bus system. Consider getting a Snapper card for easy travel.
  3. Māori Culture: Learn about Māori customs and language (Te Reo Māori). Greeting with "Kia ora" is a great way to show respect.
  4. Community Events: Wellington is famous for its arts and cultural scene. Attend local festivals like the New Zealand Festival of the Arts or CubaDupa.
  5. Cost of Living: Wellington can be expensive, especially for housing. Budget carefully and explore suburbs like Lower Hutt or Porirua for more affordable options.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate the visa and residency process and settle into life in Wellington, New Zealand. For further assistance, consult the Immigration New Zealand website or local support services.