When we send you your invitation to apply, it will contain an application form with the information from your Expression of Interest. The form you will be sent is the Application for Residence in New Zealand under the Skilled Migrant Category.
You will need to check this form carefully, sign it, and send it back to us. You will have to attach passport photographs and any other documents we have requested.
Your partner and dependent children can be included in your application for residence.
See the application checklist to make sure you have everything you need. View the process diagram.
Step 1
Make any needed changes to the application form we send you, with the help of the Application for Residence Guide – Skilled Migrant Category PDF.
Step 2
Collect your documentation. Along with your completed and signed application form, you will need to send us the following:
Step 3
For every person on the application, you will need to provide:
Step 4
Send the required fee and your application to the office address shown on your invitation to apply letter.
Your application will then be assessed by our immigration officers. See what goes on in an application assessment.
Step 5
We will give you our decision. If we we have assessed you as being able to settle well, we will give you residence. If we are still not entirely sure, we may give you a work to residence visa or permit. This will give you time to find a skilled job offer. If you are able to get this offer we will approve your residence application. Otherwise, your application will be declined.
I'm accepted – what's next?
Step 6
Now that you are in New Zealand, you will need to get settled in. You will be given a contact person, and we have a dedicated settlement support structure in place. There is a lot of information about New Zealand and settling in available, and we’re always eager to hear from you about how it’s going.
Further information on applying for a visa or permit.