IMMIGRATION
Sunday, May 4th, 2008Immigration New Zealand or INZ(Māori: Ta Ratonga Manene, previously called New Zealand Immigration Service or NZIS) is a part of the Workforce group of the New Zealand Department of Labour. It is responsible for managing the benefits and consequences of immigration to New Zealand.
New Zealand
Why are so many migrants looking to immigrate to New Zealand? New Zealand is rapidly becoming one of the most recognisable geographic landscapes in the world. Chosen as the setting for ‘Middle Earth’ in the spectacular Lord of the Ring’s Trilogy, New Zealand truly has it all. Crystal clear lakes, cascading rivers, sandy beaches, volcanic mountain ranges and snow peaked Alps are all part of the diverse visual tapestry that draws migrants to New Zealand.
Visas, Permits and Exemptions
Visas and permits are issued by INZ staff in offices throughout New Zealand and around the world. Visas are also issued by certain posts of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (New Zealand).
Under the Immigration Act 1987 a visa represents permission to travel to New Zealand and a permit is permission to be in New Zealand. All permits expire when the holder leaves New Zealand. Possession of any visa other than a Returning Resident’s Visa does not entitle the holder to a permit as of right, rather the grant of a permit is decided by the immigration officer at the port of entry.
Because of understaffing turnaround times to process visa or permit application have steadily increased over the years. Currently INZ expects to process visa applications within 60 working days after an application is lodged. According to INZ, processing a residence application usually takes 6 to 9 months, while endorsing a passport with Residence Permits and Returning Resident’s Visa after ‘approval in principle’ has been granted takes up to 30 working days.
Top 10 reasons people emigrate to New Zealand
Skilled Migrant Category (Points based)
Work Visa / Permit (Not points based)
Active Investment (One points based category, two non-points based categories)