Frequently Asked Questions

You can apply for most New Zealand visas yourself. But immigration law is complex, instructions change frequently, and a poorly prepared application can result in a decline, delays, or, in some cases, a ban from reapplying. A licensed immigration adviser gives you the best chance of approval and handles all the paperwork for you.

Check the Immigration Advisers Authority public register at iaa.govt.nz. Harminder Singh's licence number is 200902530. It is illegal in New Zealand for an unlicensed person to provide immigration advice for payment.

Fees vary depending on the visa type and complexity of your case. We always discuss fees upfront before you commit to anything. Contact us for a quote.

Processing times vary by visa type and current INZ workload. We will give you realistic timeframes when we assess your case. Where possible, we help you prepare a complete application to minimise delays.

The AEWV replaced the Essential Skills Work Visa in 2022. It is the main work visa for people who have a job offer from a New Zealand employer. The employer must be accredited by Immigration New Zealand, the job must pass a Job Check, and then you apply for your work visa. Visa duration is up to 3 years (or up to 5 years for some occupations).

The employer must apply for and receive Immigration New Zealand accreditation before they can hire anyone on an AEWV. If they are not yet accredited, we can assist them through the process.

Yes. Your partner may be eligible for a Partnership Work Visa, and dependent children can be included on a Dependent Child Visitor Visa or may be eligible for a domestic school education.

If you hold a student visa, you can usually work up to 25 hours per week during term time and full-time during scheduled holidays, provided your visa has work rights attached.

Yes, if you have completed a qualification at a New Zealand institution, you may be eligible for a Post-Study Work Visa. The duration depends on your qualification level and where you studied: generally 1–3 years.

The SMC is New Zealand's points-based residence pathway. You need at least 160 points (based on your age, job offer, skill level, qualifications, and work experience). INZ issues Invitations to Apply (ITAs) periodically to those with the highest scores. We assess your points and help you plan the best time to submit your Expression of Interest.

SMC applications currently take up to 6 months to process once you have submitted. You must submit within 4 months of receiving your Invitation to Apply.

Yes. Your parents can come as visitors on a Parents Category Visitor Visa (up to 3 years), or if they meet the financial requirements (NZ$1 million in transferable funds), they may be eligible for the Parent Retirement Resident Visa.

If you are a New Zealand citizen, resident, or work visa holder, your partner may be eligible for a Partnership Work Visa, Partnership Visitor Visa, or ultimately Partnership Residence. We handle these applications regularly.