Work Permit - New Zealand
Oct 20th 2002, 6:47 pm
#1
Forum Regular
Thread Starter
Joined: Jul 2002
Location: Kerikeri, Bay of Islands, NZ (was Broadstairs, Kent, UK)
Posts: 112
Work Permit - New Zealand
My husband has been offered a couple of interviews in NZ and we are going over soon to see if he can secure a position with one of them.
Our PR application is on hold until the points drop.
My question is, if he goes over to visit and he gets one of the jobs, can he apply for a Work Visa while he is in NZ and what restrictions/rules etc apply to him and how long would it be valid for ??
Thanks for your help.
Pippa xx
Our PR application is on hold until the points drop.
My question is, if he goes over to visit and he gets one of the jobs, can he apply for a Work Visa while he is in NZ and what restrictions/rules etc apply to him and how long would it be valid for ??
Thanks for your help.
Pippa xx
Oct 20th 2002, 10:42 pm
#2
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: Work Permit - New Zealand
New Zealand does have a work permit system. Information is at
http://www.immigration.govt.nz
If your husband finds an employer keen to take him on, they should
really hire an NZ immigration consultant to guide them through the
process.
Once he has a job in NZ, that should give you 8 points in the general
skilled points test (based on a pass mark of >28), so you'd have a
good chance of getting through. Or you could try for PR through the
work to residence policy.
If your husband is entering as a tourist he should not give any
indication that he's going for a job interview - this would risk him
being refused entry. Similarly, I wouldn't carry any CVs or similar
in your luggage. Your intention should be to visit NZ for a holiday,
although there's nothing illegal about attending job interviews while
there, immigration officers at the airport can get tetchy about things
like that.
Jeremy
>On Sun, 20 Oct 2002 18:47:42 +0000, Pippa wrote:
>My husband has been offered a couple of interviews in NZ and we are
>going over soon to see if he can secure a position with one of them.
>Our PR application is on hold until the points drop.
>My question is, if he goes over to visit and he gets one of the
>jobs, can he apply for a Work Visa while he is in NZ and what
>restrictions/rules etc apply to him and how long would it be
>valid for ??
>Thanks for your help.
>Pippa xx
>--
http://www.immigration.govt.nz
If your husband finds an employer keen to take him on, they should
really hire an NZ immigration consultant to guide them through the
process.
Once he has a job in NZ, that should give you 8 points in the general
skilled points test (based on a pass mark of >28), so you'd have a
good chance of getting through. Or you could try for PR through the
work to residence policy.
If your husband is entering as a tourist he should not give any
indication that he's going for a job interview - this would risk him
being refused entry. Similarly, I wouldn't carry any CVs or similar
in your luggage. Your intention should be to visit NZ for a holiday,
although there's nothing illegal about attending job interviews while
there, immigration officers at the airport can get tetchy about things
like that.
Jeremy
>On Sun, 20 Oct 2002 18:47:42 +0000, Pippa wrote:
>My husband has been offered a couple of interviews in NZ and we are
>going over soon to see if he can secure a position with one of them.
>Our PR application is on hold until the points drop.
>My question is, if he goes over to visit and he gets one of the
>jobs, can he apply for a Work Visa while he is in NZ and what
>restrictions/rules etc apply to him and how long would it be
>valid for ??
>Thanks for your help.
>Pippa xx
>--
Oct 21st 2002, 12:32 am
#3
BE Enthusiast
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 405
Re: Work Permit - New Zealand
[QUOTE][SIZE=1]Originally posted by Jaj:
If your husband is entering as a tourist he should not give any
indication that he's going for a job interview - this would risk him
being refused entry. Similarly, I wouldn't carry any CVs or similar
in your luggage. Your intention should be to visit NZ for a holiday,
although there's nothing illegal about attending job interviews while
there, immigration officers at the airport can get tetchy about things
like that.
Jeremy
So, if one enters NZ on a visitor visa with intention of attending interviews, what exactly IS one supposed to say to immigration officials when asked " what's the purpose of your visit to New Zealand?"
Like Pippa & spouse, my husband will hopefully be going to NZ in next few weeks for interviews. It's unlikely we'll have had an answer back by then on our PR application (expect to send it in next few days), but he can't wait for the job search visa. I was advised by 4 different imm. officers that he could enter on a visitor visa for this purpose, yet when I mentioned to them that on their website it clearly states that one cannot enter NZ on visitor visa for any purpose other than 'visiting', they told me just what you have said above " don't tell them you're there for interviews, they're funny about that, just say you're on business". Great!! Well, quite frankly this makes us a bit apprehensive. What if they ask for details? One would have to lie then wouldn't one? I just cringe at the possibility of having to tell untruths, especially when the consequences could be quite, well, um, CONSEQUENTIAL! Any comments on that Jeremy?
So what about this Single Purpose visa then (is that what it's called, can't remember)? Why does no one ever mention or suggest it, not even NZIS? Get the feeling it's avoided for some reason, can anyone tell me why?
Meanwhile - Pippa, have been meaning to ask you: how many points do you two have now?
Cheers and best of luck, TA
If your husband is entering as a tourist he should not give any
indication that he's going for a job interview - this would risk him
being refused entry. Similarly, I wouldn't carry any CVs or similar
in your luggage. Your intention should be to visit NZ for a holiday,
although there's nothing illegal about attending job interviews while
there, immigration officers at the airport can get tetchy about things
like that.
Jeremy
So, if one enters NZ on a visitor visa with intention of attending interviews, what exactly IS one supposed to say to immigration officials when asked " what's the purpose of your visit to New Zealand?"
Like Pippa & spouse, my husband will hopefully be going to NZ in next few weeks for interviews. It's unlikely we'll have had an answer back by then on our PR application (expect to send it in next few days), but he can't wait for the job search visa. I was advised by 4 different imm. officers that he could enter on a visitor visa for this purpose, yet when I mentioned to them that on their website it clearly states that one cannot enter NZ on visitor visa for any purpose other than 'visiting', they told me just what you have said above " don't tell them you're there for interviews, they're funny about that, just say you're on business". Great!! Well, quite frankly this makes us a bit apprehensive. What if they ask for details? One would have to lie then wouldn't one? I just cringe at the possibility of having to tell untruths, especially when the consequences could be quite, well, um, CONSEQUENTIAL! Any comments on that Jeremy?
So what about this Single Purpose visa then (is that what it's called, can't remember)? Why does no one ever mention or suggest it, not even NZIS? Get the feeling it's avoided for some reason, can anyone tell me why?
Meanwhile - Pippa, have been meaning to ask you: how many points do you two have now?
Cheers and best of luck, TA
Oct 21st 2002, 6:38 pm
#4
Forum Regular
Thread Starter
Joined: Jul 2002
Location: Kerikeri, Bay of Islands, NZ (was Broadstairs, Kent, UK)
Posts: 112
Re: Work Permit - New Zealand
Dear American
We currently have 23 points, so are just below the current minimum of 25 (for a work deferal visa).
We went to the New Zealand Expo in London last weekend which had stands from job agencies, NZIS, banks etc etc. The head of the UK NZIS office was there and she advised along with the Editor of 'Working In New Zealand' that it was quite legitimate for people to visit NZ on a Visitors Permit ie for an extended holiday and if offered a job whilst there to apply for a Work Permit from the local NZIS office in NZ. She said nothing about being careful what you say at the Airport. She did say however before you apply for PR it is a good idea to go out and check out locations and the job market and if ofered a job there is no reason why you cannot apply for a Work Visa in NZ while you make up your mind, she then went on to say that you could apply for PR at the end of your 2 year visa while you are in NZ, the Editor endorsed this action as good practice as a lot of people in their experience sell up everything they own at home and then go through PR arrive in NZ and cant settle, dont like it etc etc.
It does sound dodgy this 'lying' to the Immigration Officer thing though.
I hope some other people reply to our postings and maybe things will become clearer for us both.
Best Wishes
We currently have 23 points, so are just below the current minimum of 25 (for a work deferal visa).
We went to the New Zealand Expo in London last weekend which had stands from job agencies, NZIS, banks etc etc. The head of the UK NZIS office was there and she advised along with the Editor of 'Working In New Zealand' that it was quite legitimate for people to visit NZ on a Visitors Permit ie for an extended holiday and if offered a job whilst there to apply for a Work Permit from the local NZIS office in NZ. She said nothing about being careful what you say at the Airport. She did say however before you apply for PR it is a good idea to go out and check out locations and the job market and if ofered a job there is no reason why you cannot apply for a Work Visa in NZ while you make up your mind, she then went on to say that you could apply for PR at the end of your 2 year visa while you are in NZ, the Editor endorsed this action as good practice as a lot of people in their experience sell up everything they own at home and then go through PR arrive in NZ and cant settle, dont like it etc etc.
It does sound dodgy this 'lying' to the Immigration Officer thing though.
I hope some other people reply to our postings and maybe things will become clearer for us both.
Best Wishes
Oct 21st 2002, 11:35 pm
#5
BE Enthusiast
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 405
Re: Work Permit - New Zealand
Hi again -
First, just wanted to make it clear that NZIS has never suggested anything like lying. It's just me who's concerned that if one WAS asked for details about one's "business" in NZ, and one was hoping to look for jobs, well... I just don't know, makes me feel uneasy, and I would rather be on a visa that actually specifically allowed that...
Everyone is in agreement that you CAN apply for PR or work permit in NZ while on a visitor visa without having to leave at all.
Anyway, Pippa, you are aware aren't you that a 'relevant job' offer is worth 8 points at the moment? We discussed this in another thread some weeks ago. With 23 points now, if your husband gets a relevant job offer on your trip, you can immediately apply for PR, you don't have to get a work permit. This should make you more attractive to potential employers as they won't have to go through all the hassle involved with hiring on a non-resident (they have to prove no New Zealander can do the job, etc. etc. -). Far as I know, a PR visa would take less time too than a work permit, if all your documentation is ready to go... and if I remember right, the application fee is cheaper there too than in UK or USA (we pay NZ$1200
but I believe it's only NZ$500 in NZ!)
Just keep watching the NZIS website for any changes in passmark - if it goes above 31 pts, you'll have to go for the work permit...
Cheers!
TA
First, just wanted to make it clear that NZIS has never suggested anything like lying. It's just me who's concerned that if one WAS asked for details about one's "business" in NZ, and one was hoping to look for jobs, well... I just don't know, makes me feel uneasy, and I would rather be on a visa that actually specifically allowed that...
Everyone is in agreement that you CAN apply for PR or work permit in NZ while on a visitor visa without having to leave at all.
Anyway, Pippa, you are aware aren't you that a 'relevant job' offer is worth 8 points at the moment? We discussed this in another thread some weeks ago. With 23 points now, if your husband gets a relevant job offer on your trip, you can immediately apply for PR, you don't have to get a work permit. This should make you more attractive to potential employers as they won't have to go through all the hassle involved with hiring on a non-resident (they have to prove no New Zealander can do the job, etc. etc. -). Far as I know, a PR visa would take less time too than a work permit, if all your documentation is ready to go... and if I remember right, the application fee is cheaper there too than in UK or USA (we pay NZ$1200
but I believe it's only NZ$500 in NZ!)Just keep watching the NZIS website for any changes in passmark - if it goes above 31 pts, you'll have to go for the work permit...
Cheers!
TA
Oct 22nd 2002, 8:29 am
#6
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: Work Permit - New Zealand
Two points:
1. Yes, you can only get the 6 month work visa if you're within 5
points of the pass mark. But the job offer itself is worth 8 points
(based on a pass mark of 28+) and people who find jobs from overseas,
or who are already working in NZ on work permits can benefit this way
if they are within 8 points of the pass mark.
2. As for 'lying' to an immigration officer, that's not advisable at
all. But that does not mean you have to volunteer information if it
is not specifically asked for. The main purpose of your visit to NZ
should be a holiday - you're not breaking any law by going to a job
interview as an incidental part of that. You don't have to advertise
the fact unless you're asked a straight question - in which case, you
then need to give a straight answer.
Jeremy
>On Tue, 22 Oct 2002 21:44:19 +1300, "esther" wrote:
>Hi there
>I thought that you can only get a work deferral visa if you are within 5
>points of the passmark?! Even though a relevent job offer now counts 8
>points, NZIS did not change the rules regarding being within 5 points ie you
>now need 25 points without a job offer to come to NZ on a work deferral
>visa.
>Regards
>Esther
>"The American" wrote in message
>news:450774.1035243317@britishexpat-
>s.com ...
>> Hi again -
>> First, just wanted to make it clear that NZIS has never suggested
>> anything like lying. It's just me who's concerned that if one WAS asked
>> for details about one's "business" in NZ, and one was hoping to look for
>> jobs, well... I just don't know, makes me feel uneasy, and I would
>> rather be on a visa that actually specifically allowed that...
>> Everyone is in agreement that you CAN apply for PR or work permit in NZ
>> while on a visitor visa without having to leave at all.
>> Anyway, Pippa, you are aware aren't you that a 'relevant job' offer is
>> worth 8 points at the moment? We discussed this in another thread some
>> weeks ago. With 23 points now, if your husband gets a relevant job offer
>> on your trip, you can immediately apply for PR, you don't have to get a
>> work permit. This should make you more attractive to potential employers
>> as they won't have to go through all the hassle involved with hiring on
>> a non-resident (they have to prove no New Zealander can do the job, etc.
>> etc. -). Far as I know, a PR visa would take less time too than a work
>> permit, if all your documentation is ready to go... and if I remember
>> right, the application fee is cheaper there too than in UK or USA (we
>> pay NZ$1200 but I believe it's only NZ$500 in NZ!)
>> Just keep watching the NZIS website for any changes in passmark - if it
>> goes above 31 pts, you'll have to go for the work permit...
>> Cheers!
>> TA
>> --
1. Yes, you can only get the 6 month work visa if you're within 5
points of the pass mark. But the job offer itself is worth 8 points
(based on a pass mark of 28+) and people who find jobs from overseas,
or who are already working in NZ on work permits can benefit this way
if they are within 8 points of the pass mark.
2. As for 'lying' to an immigration officer, that's not advisable at
all. But that does not mean you have to volunteer information if it
is not specifically asked for. The main purpose of your visit to NZ
should be a holiday - you're not breaking any law by going to a job
interview as an incidental part of that. You don't have to advertise
the fact unless you're asked a straight question - in which case, you
then need to give a straight answer.
Jeremy
>On Tue, 22 Oct 2002 21:44:19 +1300, "esther" wrote:
>Hi there
>I thought that you can only get a work deferral visa if you are within 5
>points of the passmark?! Even though a relevent job offer now counts 8
>points, NZIS did not change the rules regarding being within 5 points ie you
>now need 25 points without a job offer to come to NZ on a work deferral
>visa.
>Regards
>Esther
>"The American" wrote in message
>news:450774.1035243317@britishexpat-
>s.com ...
>> Hi again -
>> First, just wanted to make it clear that NZIS has never suggested
>> anything like lying. It's just me who's concerned that if one WAS asked
>> for details about one's "business" in NZ, and one was hoping to look for
>> jobs, well... I just don't know, makes me feel uneasy, and I would
>> rather be on a visa that actually specifically allowed that...
>> Everyone is in agreement that you CAN apply for PR or work permit in NZ
>> while on a visitor visa without having to leave at all.
>> Anyway, Pippa, you are aware aren't you that a 'relevant job' offer is
>> worth 8 points at the moment? We discussed this in another thread some
>> weeks ago. With 23 points now, if your husband gets a relevant job offer
>> on your trip, you can immediately apply for PR, you don't have to get a
>> work permit. This should make you more attractive to potential employers
>> as they won't have to go through all the hassle involved with hiring on
>> a non-resident (they have to prove no New Zealander can do the job, etc.
>> etc. -). Far as I know, a PR visa would take less time too than a work
>> permit, if all your documentation is ready to go... and if I remember
>> right, the application fee is cheaper there too than in UK or USA (we
>> pay NZ$1200
but I believe it's only NZ$500 in NZ!)>> Just keep watching the NZIS website for any changes in passmark - if it
>> goes above 31 pts, you'll have to go for the work permit...
>> Cheers!
>> TA
>> --
Oct 22nd 2002, 8:44 am
#7
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: Work Permit - New Zealand
Hi there
I thought that you can only get a work deferral visa if you are within 5
points of the passmark?! Even though a relevent job offer now counts 8
points, NZIS did not change the rules regarding being within 5 points ie you
now need 25 points without a job offer to come to NZ on a work deferral
visa.
Regards
Esther
"The American" wrote in message
news:450774.1035243317@britishexpats-
.com...
> Hi again -
> First, just wanted to make it clear that NZIS has never suggested
> anything like lying. It's just me who's concerned that if one WAS asked
> for details about one's "business" in NZ, and one was hoping to look for
> jobs, well... I just don't know, makes me feel uneasy, and I would
> rather be on a visa that actually specifically allowed that...
> Everyone is in agreement that you CAN apply for PR or work permit in NZ
> while on a visitor visa without having to leave at all.
> Anyway, Pippa, you are aware aren't you that a 'relevant job' offer is
> worth 8 points at the moment? We discussed this in another thread some
> weeks ago. With 23 points now, if your husband gets a relevant job offer
> on your trip, you can immediately apply for PR, you don't have to get a
> work permit. This should make you more attractive to potential employers
> as they won't have to go through all the hassle involved with hiring on
> a non-resident (they have to prove no New Zealander can do the job, etc.
> etc. -). Far as I know, a PR visa would take less time too than a work
> permit, if all your documentation is ready to go... and if I remember
> right, the application fee is cheaper there too than in UK or USA (we
> pay NZ$1200 but I believe it's only NZ$500 in NZ!)
> Just keep watching the NZIS website for any changes in passmark - if it
> goes above 31 pts, you'll have to go for the work permit...
> Cheers!
> TA
> --
I thought that you can only get a work deferral visa if you are within 5
points of the passmark?! Even though a relevent job offer now counts 8
points, NZIS did not change the rules regarding being within 5 points ie you
now need 25 points without a job offer to come to NZ on a work deferral
visa.
Regards
Esther
"The American" wrote in message
news:450774.1035243317@britishexpats-
.com...
> Hi again -
> First, just wanted to make it clear that NZIS has never suggested
> anything like lying. It's just me who's concerned that if one WAS asked
> for details about one's "business" in NZ, and one was hoping to look for
> jobs, well... I just don't know, makes me feel uneasy, and I would
> rather be on a visa that actually specifically allowed that...
> Everyone is in agreement that you CAN apply for PR or work permit in NZ
> while on a visitor visa without having to leave at all.
> Anyway, Pippa, you are aware aren't you that a 'relevant job' offer is
> worth 8 points at the moment? We discussed this in another thread some
> weeks ago. With 23 points now, if your husband gets a relevant job offer
> on your trip, you can immediately apply for PR, you don't have to get a
> work permit. This should make you more attractive to potential employers
> as they won't have to go through all the hassle involved with hiring on
> a non-resident (they have to prove no New Zealander can do the job, etc.
> etc. -). Far as I know, a PR visa would take less time too than a work
> permit, if all your documentation is ready to go... and if I remember
> right, the application fee is cheaper there too than in UK or USA (we
> pay NZ$1200
but I believe it's only NZ$500 in NZ!)> Just keep watching the NZIS website for any changes in passmark - if it
> goes above 31 pts, you'll have to go for the work permit...
> Cheers!
> TA
> --
Oct 22nd 2002, 1:54 pm
#8
Banned
Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 7,613
Re: Work Permit - New Zealand
Originally posted by Esther:
Hi there
I thought that you can only get a work deferral visa if you are within 5
points of the passmark?! Even though a relevent job offer now counts 8
points, NZIS did not change the rules regarding being within 5 points ie you
now need 25 points without a job offer to come to NZ on a work deferral
visa.
Regards
Esther
Hi there
I thought that you can only get a work deferral visa if you are within 5
points of the passmark?! Even though a relevent job offer now counts 8
points, NZIS did not change the rules regarding being within 5 points ie you
now need 25 points without a job offer to come to NZ on a work deferral
visa.
Regards
Esther
Oct 23rd 2002, 3:12 pm
#9
Forum Regular
Joined: Mar 2002
Location: lancashire
Posts: 236
Re: Work Permit - New Zealand
Originally posted by pleasancefamily:
Correct Esther. So you need to have 25 points (or is it 26 - my maths is screwy?! What is meant by 'within 5 points of 30' - I think 25 is 6 points under, no?!!!)
Correct Esther. So you need to have 25 points (or is it 26 - my maths is screwy?! What is meant by 'within 5 points of 30' - I think 25 is 6 points under, no?!!!)
Lizzie
Oct 23rd 2002, 5:29 pm
#10
Banned
Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 7,613
Re: Work Permit - New Zealand
Originally posted by lizzie:
No, 25 + 5 = 30 points - within 5 points means either 5 points or less away from target.
Lizzie
No, 25 + 5 = 30 points - within 5 points means either 5 points or less away from target.
Lizzie
True, 25 + 5 = 30. So there are 5 whole points above 25. 26, 27, 28, 29, 30. To be within 1 point of 30, you'd have to get more than 29.0000000000000000(etc)1 points, geddit? So 29 wouldn't count as within 1 point of 30. 29 is actually only within 1 point of 29.9999999999(recurring).
So you'd technically need a little bit more than 25 (eg 25.00000000000001) to be within 5 points of 30.
I rest my case, 25 is not within 5 points of 30.
Cheers - Don
Oct 23rd 2002, 7:42 pm
#11
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: Work Permit - New Zealand
OH MY GOD you have to be a computer man!!!!! 25 + 5 = 30 its simple maths
(except for you computer boffs : ) you always make the simplest of thing
complicated).
Emily
--
"There Are No Stupid Questions, But There Are A Lot Of Inquisitive Idiots."
Please remove "NOSPAM" when emailing.
"pleasancefamily" wrote in message
news:452987.1035394188@britishexpats-
.com...
> Originally posted by lizzie:
> >
> >
> > No, 25 + 5 = 30 points - within 5 points means either 5 points or less
> > away from target.
> >
> > Lizzie
> But don't you think 'within 5 points' is open to literal/ mathematical
> misinterpretation? (Maybe depends on whether you are a Millenium in 2000
> or in 2001 person?)
> True, 25 + 5 = 30. So there are 5 whole points above 25. 26, 27, 28, 29,
> 30. To be within 1 point of 30, you'd have to get more than
> 29.0000000000000000(etc)1 points, geddit? So 29 wouldn't count as within
> 1 point of 30. 29 is actually only within 1 point of
> 29.9999999999(recurring).
> So you'd technically need a little bit more than 25 (eg
> 25.00000000000001) to be within 5 points of 30.
> I rest my case, 25 is not within 5 points of 30.
> Cheers - Don
> --
(except for you computer boffs : ) you always make the simplest of thing
complicated).
Emily
--
"There Are No Stupid Questions, But There Are A Lot Of Inquisitive Idiots."
Please remove "NOSPAM" when emailing.
"pleasancefamily" wrote in message
news:452987.1035394188@britishexpats-
.com...
> Originally posted by lizzie:
> >
> >
> > No, 25 + 5 = 30 points - within 5 points means either 5 points or less
> > away from target.
> >
> > Lizzie
> But don't you think 'within 5 points' is open to literal/ mathematical
> misinterpretation? (Maybe depends on whether you are a Millenium in 2000
> or in 2001 person?)
> True, 25 + 5 = 30. So there are 5 whole points above 25. 26, 27, 28, 29,
> 30. To be within 1 point of 30, you'd have to get more than
> 29.0000000000000000(etc)1 points, geddit? So 29 wouldn't count as within
> 1 point of 30. 29 is actually only within 1 point of
> 29.9999999999(recurring).
> So you'd technically need a little bit more than 25 (eg
> 25.00000000000001) to be within 5 points of 30.
> I rest my case, 25 is not within 5 points of 30.
> Cheers - Don
> --
Aug 14th 2003, 10:29 pm
#12
Forum Regular
Joined: Jan 2003
Location: Hurrah! Auckland at last!!!!!!
Posts: 184
I'm worried about going thru NZ immigration...
[QUOTE]Originally posted by The American
I'm probably being paranoid and I have touched on this question before, but thought I'd double check...
I've got an interview lined up in NZ in 3 weeks and I'm going out on a visitors visa with a return ticket (Lodged PR app in March). I wouldn't worry, but husband is following 3 weeks after me with the kids and he's worried he'll get asked dodgy questions like why is he travelling with 3 kids and NOT with Mum too? And why am I going out 3 weeks before him etc. For such a big extended holiday it will seem odd that we're not travelling together!
What should we both say to immigration if it's queried?
Have already booked tickets and Husband had to stay behind to clear everything up here while I have the interview. (don't intend coming back!) NZIS have said that I can go out for an interview, but have read conflicting reports on this forum.
Has anyone else had the same worry? Can someone put my mind at rest. If either of us was turned away at the airport...well, it's too horrible to think about!!!!
Karen
[SIZE=1]Originally posted by Jaj:
If your husband is entering as a tourist he should not give any
indication that he's going for a job interview - this would risk him
being refused entry. Similarly, I wouldn't carry any CVs or similar
in your luggage. Your intention should be to visit NZ for a holiday,
although there's nothing illegal about attending job interviews while
there, immigration officers at the airport can get tetchy about things
like that.
Jeremy
So, if one enters NZ on a visitor visa with intention of attending interviews, what exactly IS one supposed to say to immigration officials when asked " what's the purpose of your visit to New Zealand?"
Like Pippa & spouse, my husband will hopefully be going to NZ in next few weeks for interviews. It's unlikely we'll have had an answer back by then on our PR application (expect to send it in next few days), but he can't wait for the job search visa. I was advised by 4 different imm. officers that he could enter on a visitor visa for this purpose, yet when I mentioned to them that on their website it clearly states that one cannot enter NZ on visitor visa for any purpose other than 'visiting', they told me just what you have said above " don't tell them you're there for interviews, they're funny about that, just say you're on business". Great!! Well, quite frankly this makes us a bit apprehensive. What if they ask for details? One would have to lie then wouldn't one? I just cringe at the possibility of having to tell untruths, especially when the consequences could be quite, well, um, CONSEQUENTIAL! Any comments on that Jeremy?
So what about this Single Purpose visa then (is that what it's called, can't remember)? Why does no one ever mention or suggest it, not even NZIS? Get the feeling it's avoided for some reason, can anyone tell me why?
Meanwhile - Pippa, have been meaning to ask you: how many points do you two have now?
Cheers and best of luck, TA
If your husband is entering as a tourist he should not give any
indication that he's going for a job interview - this would risk him
being refused entry. Similarly, I wouldn't carry any CVs or similar
in your luggage. Your intention should be to visit NZ for a holiday,
although there's nothing illegal about attending job interviews while
there, immigration officers at the airport can get tetchy about things
like that.
Jeremy
So, if one enters NZ on a visitor visa with intention of attending interviews, what exactly IS one supposed to say to immigration officials when asked " what's the purpose of your visit to New Zealand?"
Like Pippa & spouse, my husband will hopefully be going to NZ in next few weeks for interviews. It's unlikely we'll have had an answer back by then on our PR application (expect to send it in next few days), but he can't wait for the job search visa. I was advised by 4 different imm. officers that he could enter on a visitor visa for this purpose, yet when I mentioned to them that on their website it clearly states that one cannot enter NZ on visitor visa for any purpose other than 'visiting', they told me just what you have said above " don't tell them you're there for interviews, they're funny about that, just say you're on business". Great!! Well, quite frankly this makes us a bit apprehensive. What if they ask for details? One would have to lie then wouldn't one? I just cringe at the possibility of having to tell untruths, especially when the consequences could be quite, well, um, CONSEQUENTIAL! Any comments on that Jeremy?
So what about this Single Purpose visa then (is that what it's called, can't remember)? Why does no one ever mention or suggest it, not even NZIS? Get the feeling it's avoided for some reason, can anyone tell me why?
Meanwhile - Pippa, have been meaning to ask you: how many points do you two have now?
Cheers and best of luck, TA
I'm probably being paranoid and I have touched on this question before, but thought I'd double check...
I've got an interview lined up in NZ in 3 weeks and I'm going out on a visitors visa with a return ticket (Lodged PR app in March). I wouldn't worry, but husband is following 3 weeks after me with the kids and he's worried he'll get asked dodgy questions like why is he travelling with 3 kids and NOT with Mum too? And why am I going out 3 weeks before him etc. For such a big extended holiday it will seem odd that we're not travelling together!
What should we both say to immigration if it's queried?
Have already booked tickets and Husband had to stay behind to clear everything up here while I have the interview. (don't intend coming back!) NZIS have said that I can go out for an interview, but have read conflicting reports on this forum.
Has anyone else had the same worry? Can someone put my mind at rest. If either of us was turned away at the airport...well, it's too horrible to think about!!!!
Karen
Aug 15th 2003, 4:47 am
#13
Banned
Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 7,613
First you, Karen: travelling alone, you are unlikely to be suspected of anything! Just say 'tourism' if asked the purpose of your visit (this is true, anyway), and don't mention the job interview, it is incidental.
Husband and 3 kids: I don't think it is at all likely they will be asked 'where's mum?' They all presumably have return tickets (can't get into NZ without one unless you have appropriate visa) and so will not elicit any kind of worry from the Immigration Officer. Father could just be taking kids for a holiday. I suggest that he/ they are instructed to say the mimimum (quite difficult after a 30 hour journey), ie 'tourism/ holiday' and not mention meeting you at all. In any case, by this time you'll be in NZ with a valid visa - they are not suddenly going to throw you out because you went for a job interview.
On the Immigration forum there were several reports of NZIS London telling people it was perfectly acceptable to go to NZ on a visitor's visa then do some job hunting. Don't worry.
Husband and 3 kids: I don't think it is at all likely they will be asked 'where's mum?' They all presumably have return tickets (can't get into NZ without one unless you have appropriate visa) and so will not elicit any kind of worry from the Immigration Officer. Father could just be taking kids for a holiday. I suggest that he/ they are instructed to say the mimimum (quite difficult after a 30 hour journey), ie 'tourism/ holiday' and not mention meeting you at all. In any case, by this time you'll be in NZ with a valid visa - they are not suddenly going to throw you out because you went for a job interview.
On the Immigration forum there were several reports of NZIS London telling people it was perfectly acceptable to go to NZ on a visitor's visa then do some job hunting. Don't worry.
Aug 15th 2003, 9:17 am
#14
Forum Regular
Joined: Jan 2003
Location: Hurrah! Auckland at last!!!!!!
Posts: 184
Originally posted by pleasancefamily
First you, Karen: travelling alone, you are unlikely to be suspected of anything! Just say 'tourism' if asked the purpose of your visit (this is true, anyway), and don't mention the job interview, it is incidental.
Husband and 3 kids: I don't think it is at all likely they will be asked 'where's mum?' They all presumably have return tickets (can't get into NZ without one unless you have appropriate visa) and so will not elicit any kind of worry from the Immigration Officer. Father could just be taking kids for a holiday. I suggest that he/ they are instructed to say the mimimum (quite difficult after a 30 hour journey), ie 'tourism/ holiday' and not mention meeting you at all. In any case, by this time you'll be in NZ with a valid visa - they are not suddenly going to throw you out because you went for a job interview.
On the Immigration forum there were several reports of NZIS London telling people it was perfectly acceptable to go to NZ on a visitor's visa then do some job hunting. Don't worry.
First you, Karen: travelling alone, you are unlikely to be suspected of anything! Just say 'tourism' if asked the purpose of your visit (this is true, anyway), and don't mention the job interview, it is incidental.
Husband and 3 kids: I don't think it is at all likely they will be asked 'where's mum?' They all presumably have return tickets (can't get into NZ without one unless you have appropriate visa) and so will not elicit any kind of worry from the Immigration Officer. Father could just be taking kids for a holiday. I suggest that he/ they are instructed to say the mimimum (quite difficult after a 30 hour journey), ie 'tourism/ holiday' and not mention meeting you at all. In any case, by this time you'll be in NZ with a valid visa - they are not suddenly going to throw you out because you went for a job interview.
On the Immigration forum there were several reports of NZIS London telling people it was perfectly acceptable to go to NZ on a visitor's visa then do some job hunting. Don't worry.
We actually intended waiting for our JSV to come thru in the new year but was offered this opportunity and had to go for it with a weeks notice!! Luckily we complete on the house next Friday and I fly two weeks later. I've got more lists of things to do than I've ever had before!
Thanks again, and good luck with you journey over!
Karen
Aug 15th 2003, 12:50 pm
#15
BE Enthusiast
Joined: Apr 2003
Location: Melbourne, Australia
Posts: 425
Hi all
I had an opportunity to manage the Q&A session with the Minister at NZAMI conference last week, and the question of coming to NZ on a visitor visa but looking for work came up.
Observartion was that they've just done away with Job Search Visa, so only possible route now is Visitor Visa.
I then mentioned that people have reported being stopped at Immigration when copies of CVs were found in the luggage, giving "clear evidence" that someone wasn't a tourist.
Both the Minister and her policy people rolled their eyes and agreed that of course you can now only come on Visitor Visa, that any intrusion at Immigration is merely an overzealous officer who is misinterpreting policy.
I think best way to handle this is to escalate and ask for the most senior NZIS official present at the time.
If necessary refer them to NZIS website with the Q&A sessions of 1 July!
Better still, before visiting NZ, write to the Minister of Immigration, Parliament Building, Wellington (no stamp required) and ask her to confirm that you don't need a special visa to find a job. Of course write early and give your travel date so they can get a reply to you.
The senior policy managers present at Conference then did said that work is being done on new visas for business research (after all, if you want to migrate permanently, well you can't be visitor, can you?!)
And then they said that after 8 years it was time that they revisited the tempoirary visas again.
In light of the total reliance by many countries on visitor visas for job search or business research under new policies, this review is now urgently required lest more overzealous officers undermine the intention of policy.
Don't accept the word of the first NZIS officer you meet, make sure you keep going until you get satisfaction even if the senior officer has to telephone the GM of NZIS at 2am to help you avoid spending the night being questioned in a room at the airport.
Noli illegitimi carborundum (I think...)
I had an opportunity to manage the Q&A session with the Minister at NZAMI conference last week, and the question of coming to NZ on a visitor visa but looking for work came up.
Observartion was that they've just done away with Job Search Visa, so only possible route now is Visitor Visa.
I then mentioned that people have reported being stopped at Immigration when copies of CVs were found in the luggage, giving "clear evidence" that someone wasn't a tourist.
Both the Minister and her policy people rolled their eyes and agreed that of course you can now only come on Visitor Visa, that any intrusion at Immigration is merely an overzealous officer who is misinterpreting policy.
I think best way to handle this is to escalate and ask for the most senior NZIS official present at the time.
If necessary refer them to NZIS website with the Q&A sessions of 1 July!
Better still, before visiting NZ, write to the Minister of Immigration, Parliament Building, Wellington (no stamp required) and ask her to confirm that you don't need a special visa to find a job. Of course write early and give your travel date so they can get a reply to you.
The senior policy managers present at Conference then did said that work is being done on new visas for business research (after all, if you want to migrate permanently, well you can't be visitor, can you?!)
And then they said that after 8 years it was time that they revisited the tempoirary visas again.
In light of the total reliance by many countries on visitor visas for job search or business research under new policies, this review is now urgently required lest more overzealous officers undermine the intention of policy.
Don't accept the word of the first NZIS officer you meet, make sure you keep going until you get satisfaction even if the senior officer has to telephone the GM of NZIS at 2am to help you avoid spending the night being questioned in a room at the airport.
Noli illegitimi carborundum (I think...)
Originally posted by The Simpsons
Thanks Don, I know you're right, but with all the stress of everything I let these things get to me!
We actually intended waiting for our JSV to come thru in the new year but was offered this opportunity and had to go for it with a weeks notice!! Luckily we complete on the house next Friday and I fly two weeks later. I've got more lists of things to do than I've ever had before!
Thanks again, and good luck with you journey over!
Karen
Thanks Don, I know you're right, but with all the stress of everything I let these things get to me!
We actually intended waiting for our JSV to come thru in the new year but was offered this opportunity and had to go for it with a weeks notice!! Luckily we complete on the house next Friday and I fly two weeks later. I've got more lists of things to do than I've ever had before!
Thanks again, and good luck with you journey over!
Karen