An online application is a way of submitting an electronic application for a work visa under the Silver Fern Job Search category by using the Immigration New Zealand website. All applicants for a Silver Fern Job Search visa must apply using the online system.
The category is open to applicants from all countries who meet the requirements. Payment for the online application must be made with a Visa or MasterCard credit card.
There are 300 places available in the quota every year. The quota opens on 27 April 2010 and will be reset on 27 April every year.
The 300 places are allocated on a ‘first come, first served’ basis. Applications will only be accepted by the online system while there are places left. Once the quota is full, the system will not accept applications or process payments. If an application is declined, withdrawn or cancelled, the place will go back into the quota.
You can check the status of the quota by logging on to Online Services on our website. The Silver Fern Job Search Online page will be updated when places are returned to the quota following a declined, withdrawn or cancelled application. There is no automatic system to alert you that a place has been returned to the quota. The only way to know is to check the Online Service on our website for updates.
No. You must apply using the online system. We will not accept manual applications.
Yes, you can save an application while you are completing it and return to finish it at a later date. You will need your username and password to do this.
Because there is a limited number of places a delay could mean that all available places are filled.
If you submit an application for a silver fern job search online you can withdraw it by contacting the branch that is processing your application. You must state your full name, date of birth, passport number and contact details in your request to withdraw the Silver Fern application. Please note the application fee will not be refunded.
No. You must be outside New Zealand when you apply, and for the duration of the application process.
As long as you are outside New Zealand during the application process for the Silver Fern Job Search visa, it will not be affected by a residence application.
Yes, Silver Fern Job Search work visas allow multiple entries for nine months from the date you first arrive in New Zealand. You must first arrive in New Zealand within six months of the grant of the visa.
You must ensure that all the information you provide is accurate. Your name and date of birth must be exactly the same as the personal details on your passport. You will also need to provide your passport details, and answer questions on your health, character and travel plans. You will also need to confirm that you meet the Silver Fern Job Search requirements.
Before completing the questions on the Health Page of the online application you should read our leaflet Health Requirements (INZ 1121) PDF. This leaflet will tell you about the health requirements you may be required to complete to have your application considered.
Once your application has been successfully submitted, you will receive an automated email with a list of the documents you need to submit as evidence that you meet the requirements of the Silver Fern job Search category including completed medical and police certificates. The details of the Immigration New Zealand branch where you need to send the information will also be included.
Once we receive all your documents, the processing time will depend on the level of verification required and the processing times of the branch where your application is assessed. For details of branch processing times, see our contacts page and select the appropriate branch from the list.
You can check the status of your application by logging on to Online Services on our website. The link that shows the status of the application is entitled “What’s Happening” and appears on the top right hand side of the screen.
If your need to change any details you will need to let your case officer know.
Yes. If your application has not been decided, you can withdraw it by contacting the branch processing your application. The name and contact details of the appropriate branch will be in the automated email sent to you after your application is received.
When your documents are received by Immigration New Zealand, an immigration officer will assess your application. If your application is approved, a visa will be endorsed in your passport, and along with any original documents, will be returned to you.
If you find skilled employment while holding a Silver Fern Job Search visa, you may be eligible for a work visa under the Silver Fern Practical Experience category. Practical experience work visas will be granted for job offers of 12 months or longer, and their duration will be determined by the duration of the job offer. See Silver Fern Practical Experience for more details.
If you do not meet the Silver Fern Practical Experience requirements, you can also apply for another type of visa as a temporary worker, student, or resident.
No. A Silver Fern Job Search visa can only be granted once. It does not matter if you used your previous work visa or not.
Partners and dependent children of holders of a Silver Fern Job Search visa are not entitled to be granted temporary visas on the basis of the Silver Fern Job Search visa. However they may obtain a visa in their own right, ie if they wish to study they must meet standard requirements for a student visa.
You will be able to show your employer the label endorsed in your passport, which has information on the conditions of your employment in New Zealand. You can also call Immigration New Zealand to confirm the details.
No. The Silver Fern Job Search visa allows work in any area without a labour market check. Similarly, any offer of skilled employment under the Silver Fern Practical Experience work category will not be labour market tested – your employer does not have to demonstrate that they have been unable to fill the position locally.
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