Your Path to New Zealand Permanent Residency
Navigate New Zealand's skilled migration pathways with expert guidance. From the Skilled Migrant Category to regional pathways, we provide comprehensive support to help you achieve your permanent residency goals.
Why Choose New Zealand for Permanent Residency?
New Zealand offers an attractive skilled migration program combining career opportunities with an exceptional lifestyle in one of the world's most beautiful countries.
Straightforward Immigration System
Clear points-based system with transparent criteria. New Zealand actively welcomes skilled migrants with streamlined application processes and regular selection draws.
Outstanding Quality of Life
Stunning natural beauty, safe communities, excellent work-life balance, and consistently ranked among the world's best countries for quality of life and happiness.
Growing Economy
Strong job market with demand for skilled workers in IT, healthcare, engineering, and trades. Competitive salaries and excellent worker protections.
Excellent Education System
World-class education system with free public schooling for PR holders' children. New Zealand qualifications recognized internationally.
Comprehensive Healthcare
Public healthcare system providing free or subsidized medical care for residents. Strong social support systems and safety nets.
Fast Track to Citizenship
Permanent residents can apply for citizenship after 5 years of residence. New Zealand allows dual citizenship.
Did you know? New Zealand permanent residents have the right to live, work, and study anywhere in New Zealand indefinitely. You can also travel to and from New Zealand for up to 2 years on your resident visa.
Available PR Pathways
Choose the pathway that best matches your profile, experience, and immigration goals.
General Eligibility Requirements
While specific requirements vary by program, here are the common criteria for New Zealand permanent residency applications.
Skilled Employment
SMC, Work to ResidenceJob or job offer in skilled occupation (ANZSCO skill levels 1-3). Must be genuine full-time position paying at least median wage (NZD $31.61/hour). Employer verification required.
English Proficiency
All ProgramsIELTS 6.5 overall (no band less than 6.0) or equivalent. Alternative tests: TOEFL iBT 79, PTE Academic 58, OET Grade B. Test results valid for 2 years.
Qualifications
SMCRecognized qualification relevant to occupation. Bachelor = 40 points, Master = 50 points, PhD = 70 points. NZ qualifications receive bonus points.
Points Score
SMCMinimum 160 points to submit EOI. Competitive selection at 180+ points. Points for age, qualifications, work experience, job offer, and NZ experience.
Age Requirement
SMCAge 20-39 receives maximum 30 points. Age 40-44 = 20 points, 45-49 = 10 points, 50-55 = 5 points. Must be under 56 at time of application.
Health & Character
All ProgramsMedical examination required. Police certificates from all countries lived in 12+ months. Good health and character essential. No serious criminal convictions.
Skilled Migrant Category Points
Minimum 160 points to submit EOI. Competitive selection typically at 180+ points.
Age (20-39)
30 points
PhD
70 points
Skilled Job in NZ
50-60 points
Partner Points
Up to 20 points
Note: Points requirements and selection criteria change based on immigration targets. We assess your profile against current requirements and recommend the best pathway for your situation.
Standard Processing Timelines
Understanding the typical timeline for each pathway helps you plan your immigration journey effectively.
Skilled Migrant Category
Submit Expression of Interest (EOI)
1-2 weeksComplete online EOI with all details and supporting evidence
EOI Selection from Pool
VariesWait for selection based on points score (typically 2-4 weeks between selections)
Invitation to Apply (ITA)
4 monthsReceive ITA and gather all required documents within 4 months
Lodge Residence Application
Within 4 monthsSubmit complete application with all supporting documents
Application Processing
6-12 monthsImmigration NZ processes application including verification
Residence Visa Grant
1-2 weeksReceive residence visa and make initial entry to NZ
Work to Residence
Secure Job with Accredited Employer
VariesObtain job offer from Immigration NZ accredited employer
Work Visa Application
2-4 monthsApply for work visa (30 months duration)
Work in New Zealand
24 monthsWork for accredited employer for minimum 24 months
Residence Application
1-2 monthsApply for residence after meeting work requirements
Application Processing
6-9 monthsImmigration NZ processes residence application
Residence Visa Grant
1-2 weeksReceive residence visa approval
Partnership Residence
Gather Relationship Evidence
2-4 weeksCompile evidence of genuine and stable relationship
Lodge Application
1-2 weeksSubmit partnership residence application with all documents
Initial Assessment
3-6 monthsImmigration NZ reviews application and may request additional info
Interview (if required)
VariesAttend interview if requested by Immigration NZ
Application Processing
12-18 monthsFull processing including verification checks
Residence Visa Grant
1-2 weeksReceive residence visa (initially temporary for 2 years)
Processing Time Factors
- Completeness and accuracy of application
- Points score and occupation demand
- Immigration NZ workload and priorities
- Additional verification requirements
How We Help
- Maximize your points score for SMC
- Ensure complete and accurate documentation
- Monitor EOI selections and application status
- Respond promptly to Immigration NZ requests
PR Application Support Pricing
New Zealand Permanent Residency Application Support
Our comprehensive PR support service covers all aspects of your New Zealand permanent residency application, from initial assessment to final submission.
Our PR application support includes:
Initial eligibility assessment and pathway recommendation
Points calculation and optimization for SMC
EOI preparation and submission support
Document checklist and preparation guidance
Visa application form completion and review
Supporting document review and verification
Post-submission follow-up and status monitoring
Response to Immigration NZ requests
Service Fee
PR Application Support
Complete application preparation and submission support
$399
Note: This fee covers our professional services for one PR application pathway. Partner/dependent applications may have separate fees.
Final pricing is confirmed after consultation based on your specific pathway and requirements.
Important notes:
• Government visa application fees are paid directly to Immigration New Zealand
• Notapaths does not collect government fees
• English test fees (IELTS, PTE, TOEFL) are paid directly to test providers
• Medical examination fees are paid directly to panel physicians
• Final PR decisions are made by Immigration New Zealand, not Notapaths. However, 98% of those who follow our guidelines and use our application support succeed. We work closely with immigration requirements to align your application with Immigration NZ standards, hence our exceptional success rate.
Government Fees (Paid Directly to Immigration New Zealand)
• Skilled Migrant Category: NZD $4,290 (main applicant)
• Work to Residence: NZD $4,290 (main applicant)
• Partnership Residence: NZD $1,958 (main applicant)
• Additional applicant 18+: NZD $2,145
• Additional applicant under 18: NZD $1,073
Note: Government fees are subject to change. Visit the official Immigration New Zealand website for current fee schedules.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about New Zealand permanent residency applications
Still have questions? Book a free consultation with our immigration experts to discuss your specific situation and get personalized guidance on your New Zealand PR journey.
Ready to Start Your New Zealand PR Journey?
Let our experienced team guide you through every step of your New Zealand permanent residency application.
Book a Consultation
Schedule a free consultation to discuss your New Zealand PR pathway and eligibility
98%
Success Rate
500+
Applications Processed
8-18
Months Processing Time