1. What is the New Zealand Long Term Skill Shortage List Visa?

The New Zealand Long Term Skill Shortage List Visa is a type of visa that allows individuals with skills in high demand in New Zealand to live and work in the country for an extended period. This visa is designed to address specific skill shortages in the New Zealand labor market by allowing foreigners with expertise in certain occupations to fill those gaps. To be eligible for this visa, individuals must have qualifications and work experience in occupations listed on the Long Term Skill Shortage List, which is regularly updated by Immigration New Zealand to reflect current market demands. Holders of this visa can work for any employer in New Zealand in the designated occupation without the need for a separate job offer. This visa typically grants temporary or long-term residency status in New Zealand, providing a pathway to permanent residency for individuals who meet the requirements.

2. How do I know if my occupation is on the Long Term Skill Shortage List in New Zealand?

To determine if your occupation is on the Long Term Skill Shortage List (LTSSL) in New Zealand, you can follow these steps:

1. Visit the official Immigration New Zealand website and navigate to the LTSSL section. The website provides an updated list of occupations that are in high demand in New Zealand and are facing a long-term skill shortage.

2. Search for your occupation in the list provided. The LTSSL is categorized by occupation codes and job titles, making it relatively easy to identify if your profession is listed.

3. If your occupation is included on the LTSSL, it means that there is a shortage of skilled workers in that particular field in New Zealand, which could potentially make you eligible for certain work visas and residency pathways.

By checking the LTSSL, you can determine if your occupation qualifies for certain visa categories and explore opportunities to work and live in New Zealand based on your skillset and the country’s workforce needs.

3. What are the benefits of applying for a visa under the Long Term Skill Shortage List?

Applying for a visa under the New Zealand Long Term Skill Shortage List offers several benefits:

1. Priority Processing: Applications under the Long Term Skill Shortage List are often processed more quickly due to the immediate need for skilled workers in those particular sectors.

2. Pathway to Residency: Many roles on the Long Term Skill Shortage List may lead to residency options in New Zealand, providing long-term stability and the opportunity to settle in the country permanently.

3. Employer Sponsorship: Employers seeking to fill positions on the Long Term Skill Shortage List may be more willing to sponsor your visa application, making it easier to secure a job in your desired field.

4. Job Security: Occupations listed on the Long Term Skill Shortage List are deemed essential to the country’s economy, increasing the likelihood of job stability and security in those roles.

Overall, applying for a visa under the Long Term Skill Shortage List can open up various opportunities for skilled workers looking to migrate to New Zealand and establish a rewarding career in a high-demand field.

4. Are there any specific requirements for applying for the New Zealand Long Term Skill Shortage List Visa?

Yes, there are specific requirements for applying for the New Zealand Long Term Skill Shortage List Visa. These requirements typically include:

1. Qualification assessment: Applicants must have qualifications that are relevant to occupations listed on the Long Term Skill Shortage List (LTSSL) in New Zealand.
2. Work experience: Applicants are usually required to have relevant work experience in the specific occupation identified on the LTSSL.
3. Job offer: A genuine job offer for full-time employment from a New Zealand employer in the occupation found on the LTSSL is often necessary.
4. Registration or licensing: Some occupations may require registration or licensing in New Zealand, which the applicant must obtain before applying for the visa.
5. English language proficiency: Meeting certain English language requirements may also be necessary to be eligible for the visa.

It is essential for applicants to carefully review and meet all the specific requirements outlined by Immigration New Zealand to ensure a successful application for the New Zealand Long Term Skill Shortage List Visa.

5. How long is the visa validity for applicants on the Long Term Skill Shortage List?

The visa validity for applicants on the New Zealand Long Term Skill Shortage List varies depending on the specific visa type granted. Generally, skilled migrants seeking to work in New Zealand under the Long Term Skill Shortage List may be eligible for the Essential Skills Work Visa, which typically has a validity period of up to 3 years. However, it’s important to note that visa durations can differ based on individual circumstances, such as the applicant’s job offer and the specific skill shortage category they fall under. Applicants should carefully review the visa conditions provided by Immigration New Zealand to understand the exact validity period granted for their particular visa application.

6. Can I bring my family members with me when applying for this visa?

Yes, when applying for a New Zealand Long Term Skill Shortage List Visa, you can bring your family members with you. This visa allows the primary applicant, as well as their partner and dependent children, to accompany them to New Zealand. In order for your family members to be included in your visa application, you will need to provide the necessary documentation to prove your relationship with them, such as marriage certificates or birth certificates. It’s important to note that each family member included in the application will need to meet the eligibility criteria set out by Immigration New Zealand. Additionally, they may also have the opportunity to study and work in New Zealand depending on the visa conditions.

7. What are the pathways to permanent residency for applicants on the Long Term Skill Shortage List Visa?

Applicants on the New Zealand Long Term Skill Shortage List Visa have various pathways to permanent residency.

1. Skilled Migrant Category Residence Visa: This is a points-based visa for skilled workers who meet the criteria including age, English language proficiency, work experience, and offer of skilled employment in New Zealand.

2. Work to Residence Visa: This pathway allows individuals who have been in employment in New Zealand for at least 24 months on a Work Visa to apply for residency under the Work to Residence category, provided they meet health and character requirements.

3. Entrepreneur Resident Visa: For individuals who have successfully operated a business in New Zealand for at least two years on an Entrepreneur Work Visa and can demonstrate they have created significant benefits for the country, this visa allows for permanent residency.

4. Investor Resident Visa: Investors who have held funds in an acceptable investment in New Zealand for a specified period may be eligible to apply for permanent residency under the Investor category.

These pathways offer different routes for skilled workers to obtain permanent residency in New Zealand while contributing to the country’s economy and meeting the demand for key skills in various industries.

8. Is there a minimum salary requirement for jobs listed on the Long Term Skill Shortage List?

Yes, there is no minimum salary requirement for jobs listed on the New Zealand Long Term Skill Shortage List (LTSSL). However, it is important to note that the salary offered for a particular position should align with industry standards and be fair and reasonable based on the specific job role and the qualifications and experience of the candidate. Employers are encouraged to offer competitive salaries to attract skilled workers to fill the positions on the LTSSL and to comply with all relevant employment laws and regulations in New Zealand. It is also advisable for employers to conduct market research to determine appropriate salary ranges for the roles listed on the LTSSL to remain competitive in the job market.

9. How can I find a job that is on the Long Term Skill Shortage List in New Zealand?

To find a job that is on the Long Term Skill Shortage List in New Zealand, you can follow these steps:

1. Research the Long Term Skill Shortage List: Familiarize yourself with the various occupations listed on the Long Term Skill Shortage List published by Immigration New Zealand. This list is regularly updated and outlines the specific skills and occupations that are in high demand in New Zealand.

2. Assess your qualifications and experience: Evaluate your own qualifications, skills, and experience to determine if they match with any of the occupations on the Long Term Skill Shortage List. Having relevant experience in a high-demand field can significantly increase your chances of finding a job in New Zealand.

3. Connect with employers in New Zealand: Utilize online job portals, recruitment agencies, and networking platforms to connect with potential employers in New Zealand who are looking to fill roles in occupations listed on the Long Term Skill Shortage List. Many employers actively seek skilled professionals from overseas to address skill shortages in the country.

4. Consider applying for a work visa: If you secure a job offer for a position on the Long Term Skill Shortage List, you may be eligible to apply for a work visa under the Essential Skills Work Visa category. This visa allows skilled workers to live and work in New Zealand temporarily or on a long-term basis, depending on the duration of the job offer.

By following these steps and actively seeking opportunities in occupations listed on the Long Term Skill Shortage List, you can increase your chances of finding a job in New Zealand that aligns with the country’s current skill shortages.

10. Can I apply for a visa under the Long Term Skill Shortage List if I am already in New Zealand on a different visa?

Yes, if you are already in New Zealand on a different visa, you may still be able to apply for a visa under the Long Term Skill Shortage List (LTSSL) category. Here are some key points you should consider:

1. Transitioning visas: Depending on your current visa type, you may be able to apply for a visa under the LTSSL category while in New Zealand. It is important to review the specific requirements and eligibility criteria for the LTSSL visa.

2. Visa conditions: Make sure to check if there are any restrictions or conditions attached to your current visa that may impact your ability to apply for a visa under the LTSSL. It’s imperative to comply with all visa conditions during the application process.

3. Application process: You will need to submit a new visa application under the LTSSL category and meet all the relevant criteria, including qualifications, work experience, and job offer requirements as specified in the LTSSL.

4. Immigration advice: It is recommended to seek guidance from a qualified immigration advisor or lawyer to ensure that you understand the visa options available to you and the implications of transitioning to a visa under the LTSSL while in New Zealand.

Overall, while it is possible to apply for a visa under the LTSSL if you are already in New Zealand on a different visa, careful planning and adherence to the visa requirements are essential to ensuring a successful application process.

11. Are there any restrictions on changing jobs or employers while on the Long Term Skill Shortage List Visa?

On the New Zealand Long Term Skill Shortage List Visa, individuals are allowed to change jobs or employers without needing to inform Immigration New Zealand or apply for a new visa as long as the new job remains within the same skill shortage area for which the original visa was granted. However, there are some important points to consider:

1. The new employment must still meet the requirements for the skill shortage list, and ensure that the individual’s position aligns with the occupation specified in the visa.
2. It is advisable to update Immigration New Zealand with any changes in employment details to avoid potential complications in the future.
3. If the new job is outside the scope of the Long Term Skill Shortage List, the individual may need to apply for a different type of visa that aligns with the new role.

In conclusion, while there are no strict restrictions on changing jobs or employers on the Long Term Skill Shortage List Visa, it is essential to ensure that the new employment complies with the visa conditions to avoid any issues with immigration authorities.

12. What are the English language proficiency requirements for this visa category?

The English language proficiency requirements for the New Zealand Long Term Skill Shortage List Visa vary depending on the level of qualification you hold. Here are the main requirements:

1. For applicants who have a recognized qualification from a country where English is an official language (e.g., Australia, Canada, Ireland, South Africa, UK, USA), no further proof of English proficiency is usually required.
2. For those who have completed at least five years of secondary education (high school) in an English-speaking country, or have completed at least two years of tertiary education in English, may not need to provide additional language evidence.
3. If you do not fall into the above categories, you may be required to provide English proficiency test results from tests like the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) or TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language). The minimum score required typically varies based on the visa category and your occupation.

Overall, it is important to check the specific English language requirements for the New Zealand Long Term Skill Shortage List Visa based on your circumstances to ensure that you meet the necessary criteria.

13. Do I need to have a job offer in order to apply for the Long Term Skill Shortage List Visa?

1. Yes, having a job offer is a key requirement for applying for the New Zealand Long Term Skill Shortage List Visa. This visa is designed for individuals who possess skills and qualifications in occupations that are in high demand in New Zealand. In order to be eligible for this visa, you must have a job offer from a New Zealand employer in an occupation that is listed on the Long Term Skill Shortage List.

2. The job offer must meet certain criteria, including offering a salary that meets the minimum threshold set by Immigration New Zealand and complying with New Zealand employment and immigration laws. Additionally, the employer may need to provide evidence that they have attempted to recruit a New Zealand citizen or resident for the position before offering it to an international candidate.

3. While having a job offer is a crucial requirement for the Long Term Skill Shortage List Visa, there are other criteria that applicants must meet, such as having the necessary skills and qualifications for the listed occupation, meeting health and character requirements, and demonstrating sufficient proficiency in English.

4. It is important to note that the Long Term Skill Shortage List Visa is designed to attract skilled workers to fill shortages in specific occupations in New Zealand. By requiring applicants to have a job offer in one of these high-demand occupations, the visa aims to ensure that new migrants contribute to the country’s economy and workforce in a meaningful way.

14. What is the processing time for applications under this visa category?

The processing time for visa applications under the New Zealand Long Term Skill Shortage List typically varies based on a variety of factors, including the volume of applications being processed at a given time, the completeness of the application submitted, and individual circumstances of the applicant. Generally, Immigration New Zealand aims to process most temporary visa applications within 30 days and most resident visa applications within 6 months. It is important to note that these are just average processing times and actual times may vary. It is advisable to check the Immigration New Zealand website for the most up-to-date information regarding processing times for specific visa categories.

15. Are there any quotas or limits on the number of visas granted under the Long Term Skill Shortage List?

Yes, there are no specific quotas or limits on the number of visas granted under the New Zealand Long Term Skill Shortage List. This visa category is designed to address skill shortages in specific industries in New Zealand by allowing employers to hire skilled workers from overseas in occupations that are in high demand. As long as applicants meet the criteria and qualifications for the specific occupation listed on the Long Term Skill Shortage List, they are generally eligible to apply for a visa without any predetermined cap on the number of visas to be granted. However, meeting all the requirements and providing sufficient evidence to support their application is crucial for successful visa approval.

16. Can I apply for this visa if my occupation is not on the Long Term Skill Shortage List?

No, you cannot apply for a visa under the New Zealand Long Term Skill Shortage List if your occupation is not listed on it. The Long Term Skill Shortage List is created by the New Zealand government to identify occupations that are in high demand and for which there is a shortage of skilled workers in the country. If your occupation is not on the list, it means that there is not a recognized shortage of skilled workers in that field in New Zealand. Therefore, individuals whose occupations are not on the list will not be eligible to apply for this particular visa category. It is important to ensure that your occupation is on the Long Term Skill Shortage List before considering applying for a visa under this category.

17. What is the difference between the Long Term Skill Shortage List Visa and other work visas in New Zealand?

The Long Term Skill Shortage List Visa in New Zealand is specifically designed for individuals who have skills that are in high demand in the country and are listed on the Long Term Skill Shortage List (LTSSL). This visa allows skilled workers to come to New Zealand to fill specific roles for which there is a demonstrated shortage of qualified local candidates. Here are some key differences between the Long Term Skill Shortage List Visa and other work visas in New Zealand:

1. Targeted Skill Shortages: The LTSSL Visa targets occupations that are identified as being in long term shortage in New Zealand. This means that applicants for this visa must have skills and experience in these specific areas to be eligible.

2. Duration and Pathway to Residence: The LTSSL Visa typically offers a longer validity period compared to other work visas in New Zealand. Additionally, holders of this visa may have a pathway to permanent residency in New Zealand based on their skills and work experience.

3. Employer Sponsorship: While some work visas in New Zealand require employer sponsorship, the LTSSL Visa may not always necessitate a job offer from a specific employer. This can provide more flexibility for skilled workers looking to secure employment in New Zealand.

4. Job Search Period: Applicants for the LTSSL Visa may have a longer period to secure employment in their specific field compared to other work visas, giving them more time to find a suitable job that aligns with the skills shortage list.

Overall, the Long Term Skill Shortage List Visa offers a targeted pathway for skilled workers to fill critical roles in New Zealand, with the potential for long-term residency based on their in-demand skills.

18. Do I need to have relevant work experience in order to qualify for this visa?

Yes, relevant work experience is often a key requirement for qualifying for a visa under the New Zealand Long Term Skill Shortage List. This visa category typically targets individuals with skills and experience in occupations where there is a long-term shortage of workers in New Zealand. Having relevant work experience not only increases your chances of meeting the visa criteria but also demonstrates to the authorities that you have the necessary expertise to contribute to the New Zealand workforce.

If you are considering applying for a visa under this category, it is important to carefully review the specific eligibility criteria outlined by Immigration New Zealand. Meeting the work experience requirements, along with other criteria such as qualifications and English language proficiency, will be crucial in determining your eligibility for the visa. Additionally, having relevant work experience can also potentially impact the points you receive in the visa application process, which may further enhance your chances of securing the visa.

19. Can I study in New Zealand while on the Long Term Skill Shortage List Visa?

Yes, individuals on the Long Term Skill Shortage List Visa in New Zealand are typically allowed to study while in the country. Here is some important information to consider:

1. Study Restrictions: While you can undertake some studies on this visa, there may be restrictions regarding the type and duration of the course you can enroll in. Make sure to verify with Immigration New Zealand and your educational institution to ensure compliance with visa conditions.

2. Part-time Work: As a student on this visa, you may be permitted to work part-time during the academic year and full-time during scheduled breaks. This can provide additional financial support while studying.

3. Further Opportunities: Studying in New Zealand can also open up opportunities for further skilled employment or applying for another visa category post-graduation, leveraging the skills and knowledge gained during your studies.

4. Visa Compliance: It is crucial to maintain compliance with visa regulations while studying, including meeting attendance requirements and updating your status if there are any changes in your educational program.

Overall, studying in New Zealand while on the Long Term Skill Shortage List Visa can be a valuable opportunity to enhance your skills and qualifications, potentially leading to long-term career prospects in the country.

20. How can I maximize my chances of success when applying for the New Zealand Long Term Skill Shortage List Visa?

To maximize your chances of success when applying for the New Zealand Long Term Skill Shortage List Visa, consider the following strategies:

1. Research Eligibility Criteria: Thoroughly review the requirements and eligibility criteria for the visa category you are applying for. Ensure that you meet the minimum qualifications, experience, and skill level specified by Immigration New Zealand.

2. Skills Assessment: If required, undergo a skills assessment by the relevant New Zealand industry body or professional organization to validate your qualifications and experience in the nominated occupation.

3. Secure a Job Offer: Having a job offer from a New Zealand employer in an occupation listed on the Long Term Skill Shortage List significantly boosts your application. This demonstrates your value to the local labor market.

4. English Language Proficiency: Meet the required level of English language proficiency by undertaking an approved test such as IELTS or TOEFL. Good communication skills are essential for living and working in New Zealand.

5. Gather Supporting Documents: Prepare a strong application package with all necessary supporting documents, including educational certificates, work experience letters, CV, and any other relevant documentation to substantiate your claims.

6. Complete a Comprehensive Application: Ensure that your visa application form is accurately filled out and all sections are completed. Double-check for any errors or missing information before submitting.

7. Seek Professional Advice: Consider seeking guidance from an immigration consultant or lawyer specializing in New Zealand visas to help navigate the application process and address any potential concerns.

By following these tips and presenting a well-prepared application that meets all the necessary criteria, you can increase your chances of a successful outcome when applying for the New Zealand Long Term Skill Shortage List Visa.