[dilanium]

Hi everyone!
I'm Liz and my husband (Chris) and I have dreamed since before we were married about moving to New Zealand. I'll be graduating from a University in the US in Dec with my bachellors in Biology, and if all goes according to plan, I will be going to Massey (PN) for my BVSc. I've been in contact with the international liason there for a couple of years, and from what I've been I have a very good chance of getting directly into the programme.

We're hoping to come under my student visa (for 4.5 years) and then continue to stay in NZ for work (thankfully veterinarians are currently on the long term shortage list).

I would like to bring my cat along (I could never leave him) but otherwise I will be leaving most of my belongings behind.

I have a question for those who have imported animals from the US, how difficult is it to find the necessary microchip? I know the microchips used in the US are different than the one I'll need.

Thanks!
Liz :raebanana

[IanW99]

Hi, and welcome to the forum.

This thread might be useful microchipping cat in USA for NZ (http://www.emigratenz.org/forum/showthread.php?t=11291)

Ian

[constablechuck]

Welcome, we lived in western PA about 90 miles from Cleveland, the winters in NZ are very mild compared to the Northern U.S., here in Christchurch it's winter and the temp has normally been around 50 FH.

We didn't bring any animals so I don't have any experiences to share, however I have heard that it's expensive because you have to pay to have the animal in quarantine for a months or so after it arrives.

You may want to check www.customs.govt.nz and http://www.biosecurity.govt.nz/commercial-imports/animal-imports/introduction

Also if your under 30 you may want to look into getting a work holiday visa (WHV), it's good for one year and allows you to work full or part time, if you decide you want to stay then you can apply for a regular work permit and eventually apply for residency under the work to residency scheme. My wife had a WHV, she applied online and was approved the same day.

http://www.immigration.govt.nz/migrant/stream/work/workingholiday/unitedstatesofamericaworkingholidayscheme.htm

[jen]

Hello & welcome to the forum!

It's not that hard to find the right kind of chip - the links people gave you have lots of good information. I know Home Again is one common brand in the US that is ISO compliant.

Good luck with your plans!

Jen

[dilanium]

Thank you for all of your responses. :) They were very helpful.

[StevieD]

Just want to welcome you to the forum!!!

Steve

[dilanium]

Thanks Steve! I love your avatar!