Visa Guides

New Zealand Skilled Independent Visa 2025 – Subclass 189

New Zealand citizens granted this changeless visa, in addition to holding an Extraordinary Category visa for five consecutive years, will be eligible to petition for Australian citizenship after 12 months. If you are not a citizen of New Zealand, you will be eligible to apply for the Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) in the points-tested stream.

This may be a temporary halt for modern applications, as the government is currently considering future migration and citizenship pathways for unused New Zealand citizens in Australia, which is indicative of the close relationship between our two countries.

The Department of Domestic Issues has established a dedicated task force to oversee the management of this caseload and is committed to completing the preponderance of online applications within the New Zealand stream during this period.

The majority of New Zealand stream candidates have been waiting for an extended period to complete their visa applications as a result of the limited number of spots allocated to this group in subsequent years.

Eligibility:

The 189 New Zealand visa pathway does not require a specific age. It would be advantageous for you to possess an Extraordinary Category Visa (subclass 444); however, your family members may possess any type of visa. You must have been a consistent resident of Australia for a minimum of five years prior to your application, and you must have commenced that period of residence on or before February 19, 2016.

You must:

  • A specialized occupation that is eligible for this subclass of visa has been assigned (refer to the list of qualified occupations).
  • Have undergone a reasonable aptitude assessment within the designated gifted occupation;
  • Must be at least 18 years old and under the age of 45 for an extended period;
  • Possess a minimum of competent English dialect skills;
  • Comply with the focus test success stamp of at least 65 points.
  • Satisfy particular standards of character and well-being.

Applicants are evaluated based on the following criteria:

  • Age
  • proficiency in the English language
  • Talented work experience in Australia and internationally
  • Universal and Australian qualifications
  • Australians consider their needs.
  • Specialized qualifications.
  • Community dialect qualifications that are credentialed
  • A study of regional Australia
  • Qualifications for spouse aptitude
  • One year of professional experience in Australia

Benefits of New Zealand Skilled Independent Visa:

  • Permanent Residence: This visa offers a route to permanent residency in New Zealand, enabling its holders to remain in the country indefinitely and enjoy the same privileges as permanent residents.
  • Work Freedom: Visa holders are granted the freedom to work for any employer in New Zealand, regardless of location, which offers a diverse array of employment opportunities.
  • High-Quality Healthcare Accessibility: The public healthcare system of New Zealand is available to permanent residents, providing them with affordable medical services.
  • Education Benefits: The children of visa holders are eligible for free or subsidized education in New Zealand’s public institutions, which guarantees a high-quality education.
  • Citizenship Pathway: Following a specific period of holding a permanent residency visa, individuals are eligible to petition for New Zealand citizenship, which confers additional rights and benefits.
  • Family Sponsorship: Skilled Independent Visa holders have the option to sponsor eligible family members for residence in New Zealand, thereby facilitating family reunification.
  • High Quality of Life: New Zealand is renowned for its exceptional quality of life, which is characterized by a strong sense of community, low crime rates, and pristine environments.
  • Job Market Robustness: The demand for competent workers is substantial in a variety of sectors, such as healthcare, engineering, IT, and trade, resulting in a plethora of job opportunities.
  • Diverse Work Environment: The multicultural society of New Zealand promotes an inclusive work environment, which enables professionals to interact with a variety of communities.
  • Integration Assistance: The government and a variety of organizations provide resources and assistance to newcomers to facilitate their integration into society and residency.
  • Social Security Benefits: Permanent residents may be eligible for social security benefits and support services, which can provide supplementary financial security.
  • Work-Life Balance: New Zealand is renowned for its emphasis on work-life balance, which is characterized by the promotion of a healthy lifestyle and the allocation of time for leisure activities.
  • Networking Opportunities: The local workforce provides visa holders with the opportunity to establish professional networks, which can be advantageous for career advancement.
  • Qualification Recognition: New Zealand acknowledges numerous foreign qualifications, which facilitate the entry of skilled workers into their respective fields.
  • Retirement Benefits Accessibility: Upon satisfying specific criteria, permanent residents may be granted access to pension schemes and retirement benefits.
  • Opportunities for Adventure and Travel: Residing in New Zealand provides convenient access to breathtaking landscapes, outdoor activities, and travel destinations throughout the country and neighboring regions.
  • Contributing to the Economy: Skilled laborers are essential to the economy, as they apply their knowledge and abilities to a variety of sectors.

Application Process:

You may be located within or outside of Australia at the time of our decision regarding your visa application. We will inform you of our decision in writing.

We will inform you if your visa is approved:

  • The number is provided on your visa.
  • the commencement date of your visa
  • your visa conditions, if applicable
  • Retain a duplicate of the decision.

We will inform you if your visa is denied:

  • the reason for the visa’s rejection
  • whether you are entitled to a review of the decision
  • The application charge will not be refunded if your application is denied.

More Info

Visa Cost:

The primary applicant for a Subclass 189 Visa under the New Zealand Stream is required to pay AUD 4,240. If you include other family members in your visa application, you will incur additional expenses.

Conclusion:

New Zealand, an archipelago nation in the South Pacific with a population of 5.1 million, is renowned for its picturesque landscapes. Additionally, it is an appealing location for commerce due to its consistently high quality of life rankings and robust economy.

  1. What is the easiest way to get PR in New Zealand?

    The most common pathway to permanent residency in New Zealand is through the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC). To be eligible for the SMC, you must meet several criteria: Skilled Occupation: Your occupation must be on the New Zealand Skills Shortage List.

  2. Can I get a NZ work visa without a job offer? 

    An ‘open’ work visa allows the holder to work for any employer in New Zealand. These types of work visas do not require an offer of employment at the application stage, but they are only available to specific applicants applying under the following categories: Working Holiday Visa schemes.

  3. Is a skilled independent visa permanent? 

    For individuals who possess the necessary qualifications and skills to address Australia’s skill shortages and lack sponsorship from an employer, family member, or state or territory government, the Skilled Independent Visa serves as a permanent residence visa.

Related Articles

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Back to top button