[lee]

Hello,

Can anyone give me some advice which method to apply for a visa under the skilled migrant category?

Just curious what the pro's and the con's may be, if any?

Also, any benefits of using an agency that is based in New Zealand (I am in the UK)

Thank you
Lee

[Trigirl]

To apply for the skilled migrant category you first check to see if you have enough points. Then if you do you can apply online on a form called an Expression of Interest (EOI). The main immigration page for skilled migrants is here http://www.immigration.govt.nz/migrant/stream/work/workandlivepermanently/ you’ll find links to both a points indicator and the online EOI on the right hand side.

My personal opinion is that unless you have a really complex case an agency offers you no benefits over DIY. An expensive waste of money. You still have to get the paperwork together and answer all the questions – you just have the agency asking them instead of the immigration service. The paperwork is long and detailed but not difficult. However, I’m aware that there are other people on here who’ve used them and been happy.

Beware by the way of any agency offering to find you a job in return for payment. Reputable recruitment agencies in NZ are paid by the employer with their services free to potential recruits.

[zardell]

Hi Lee.

This question has been posed many times on this forum and I think you'll find that the general consensus is to go it alone and save your hard earned cash.

Use the search facility and you'll find many posts I'm sure.

Anything specific that you need to know just ask - there are plenty here (me included) that came to NZ via the D.I.Y SMC route and would be more than pleased to help you.

Good luck with you plans,

Julie

xx

[gil]

Defo DIY!

Gil

[Kim39]

Yep go the DIY route. Saves a good amount of cash will/can be used for more important things down here.

Good luck with it all Lee.

Kim

[Sam B]

It's really not as hard as it all seems at first and you save loads of money - do it yourself!

[marcia]

Definately DIY!

It looks pretty daunting at first, but all the information you have to provide, you would have to give an agency anyway just for them to do a bit of form filling. :no

Use the wealth of knowledge on here to assist you and save yourself some money whilst making friends too! :nice1

[lee]

What a response!
Thank you for everyone's input. Looks like the DIY option will be the route I will take.
Regards,
Lee