uk-based or nz-based immigration agents
 

We believe that in our case we would be best employing a migration agent to help us through the process.

Does anyone have an opinion on whether it is best to use a uk-based or nz-based agent?


Steve

Re: uk=based or nz-based immigration agents
 

Can I ask why you think you need an agent, we employed one and he went bust and we lost all our money see 'immigration agent in receivership' which in itself tells the story.

You can probably tell i'm now not a 'fan'.

Re: uk=based or nz-based immigration agents
 

we started out looking at using an agent but after miss information we decided we would do it ourselves and anything we were unsure of we just rang or went up to NZ House and asked them there. lot less money and less hassle and not having to double check what the useless agent told us. ARE you sure you need an agent?

Re: uk=based or nz-based immigration agents
 

Not many of us have used an agent on here so you may not get a definite answer to this. Most of us would suggest doing it yourself with help from on here or NZIS if needed. Please have a look at your visa options and your personal circumstances and make an informed decision on this. Agents cost a lot and realistically all they can do is fill in the forms for you, tell you what to do and what information they need.
If you do decide to use an agent then make sure they are licensed here: http://www.iaa.govt.nz/

Re: uk=based or nz-based immigration agents
 

I asked, just as a matter of interest and got quoted about £2300 for SMC from start to finish. That also didn't include:
o EOI Fee – NZ$440
o Residence Application - £1,090
o Migrant Levy - £165 per person
o Work Visa (if required) - £125
- Medicals – approx £300 per adult
- UK Police Check - £35
- & SA police checks (in our case) £10

Re: uk=based or nz-based immigration agents
 

Thanks for all your replies.
Much Food for thought.

The reason I am looking at agents is so as to help me with ensuring my qualifications etc fit the bill since I don't hold a degree (but do have bags of experience in IT) and need a job offer in order to get the points necessary for submitting an EOI.

Steve

Re: uk=based or nz-based immigration agents
 

Hi Ellena
I did see that story.

I believe I may even have left a comment.
Sorry it didn't go well for you.

Steve

Re: uk=based or nz-based immigration agents
 

Thanks, if you look at our signature we are actually on our way, husband got a job himself.

Re: uk=based or nz-based immigration agents
 

Stephen - my husband is in IT and no diploma relating to it, he just needed to show experience. Mind you might of helped the fact he had a job offer. Agents will not help with getting you a job you need to be actively seeking one yourself. Have you contacted any NZ job agencies. I will say that my husband found it extremely frustrating with the agents and in the end bite the bullet and came over for a break and just happened to obtain an offer of work whilst he was here

Re: uk=based or nz-based immigration agents
 

That looks similar to the amounts people normally quote on here.
You've got to wonder how it costs that much given the amount of work involved in doing a SMC application. Thinking I may look at a change of career...:rofl:

Stephen, have you looked at doing a sample EOI and getting a feel for the thing?

Re: uk=based or nz-based immigration agents
 

Hi Steve

I came across on a vistors visa and applied for jobs once here. After I had a job offer I had to apply for a work permit. I had not been to uni, but I did have a handful of IT qualifications, but it was experience that got me over the line. Make sure you have your CV up to date and reference letters from previous employers, stating the period of employment.

So my advice to you is if you can, apply for a work permit first, it's easier and quicker. Then it's a good idea to submit your EOI with all those lovely extra points for being in skilled employment.

Re: uk=based or nz-based immigration agents
 

Just checked you profile. 49years old? Better get your skates on! You will lose 5 points when you turn 50.

Re: uk=based or nz-based immigration agents
 

Well done. Been there done that. Employment agencies are, mostly, useless :thumbdown: It takes a special brand of shamelessness to be an employment agent.

Re: uk=based or nz-based immigration agents
 

I know, I know...

but thanks for reminding me

Re: uk=based or nz-based immigration agents
 

"and in the end bite the bullet and came over for a break and just happened to obtain an offer of work whilst he was here"...

That's what I am looking to do.

How long did it take all the paperwork etc to go through after the job offer?

Sorry..forgot to ask: what does your husband do?

S.