[Kerry and David]

We met with a guy last night who is going to handle all our visas, paperwork etc on our behalf.
As neither myself or my husband are listed on the skills list we have been advised for my husband to get a job offer before we start the full process, he currently works as a Commercial Manager in retail so we are hopeful that he should find 'something'.
I think I was a little naive before last nights meeting as I thought we would get the process started now as we want to be out in NZ this time next year, it now appears that we will have to wait until my husband flies out for job hunting (the earliest he can do this is Apr08).
So I think we just have to wait which seems strange.
Has anyone experienced the same situation? Any advice would be great.

Thank you!

[tigerlily]

I think many here have been in just your situation. Going out and getting a job offer before applying seems to work for many people. But I'm wondering if you've looked into doing the application yourself (once the job offer is in hand)? It's really an easy online process, and the people on this board can help clarify anything that might be confusing. My impression is that the agencies that "help you" by doing the paperwork actually do very little other than take your money- since you still have to come up with all the papers that the application needs (like evidence of job experience) and do the medicals. If you haven't signed any agreement with him yet, I'd seriously consider doing it on your own. Take a look at http://www.immigration.govt.nz/
Best of luck to you!

[Angelonthemove]

I agree we were going to use an agency and everyone on this board said do not bother waste of money. If you feel bad telling him, then use my excuse that you have changed your mind and are not going to NZ. Mine did not even bother replying to it. They will cost you the price of a flight for an interview.

Have you also considered apply for jobs online and then having a telephone interview if you are succesful. You never know retail find it hard to get people these days in most countries. Plus if they are an approved employer they will help you with the process. Some companies even pay for relocation, now that would have been nice

[Ashby]

I. Plus if they are an approved employer they will help you with the process.

Where is the list of approved employers??? I saw it once and can't find it again.
Does anyone have a link????

Thanks

[Angelonthemove]

http://www.immigration.govt.nz/migrant/stream/work/worktoresidence/LinkAdministration/ToolboxLinks/AccreditedEmployersList.htm

just googled it, its accredited not approved.

[Ashby]

Thanks a million

I have spent literally hours looking for that list!!

Is it just me or does that immigration site seem to get LESS clear over time???

[jess]

I would just second the advice about not paying an agent. As they said, you will still need to do most of the work. Though it looks daunting at first, unless you have unusual circumstances or health issues, it's pretty straight forward. And this forum was great for us when we had lots of questions.

The NZIS points indicator is here (http://www.immigration.govt.nz/pointsindicator)to see if your score over 100 and can enter the pool for the Skilled Migrant Category without a job offer.

If you need a job offer to have enough points, you might want to look at seek.co.nz (http://www.seek.co.nz).

A good overview of the Skilled Migrant Category process is here (http://www.immigration.govt.nz/migrant/stream/work/skilledmigrant/apply/default.htm)
An overview of the Work to Residency process is here. (http://www.immigration.govt.nz/migrant/stream/work/worktoresidence/caniworkinnz/)


From NZIS:
Skilled Migrant Category
The Skilled Migrant Category is for people who have the skills, qualifications and experience we need, and who want to live and work permanently in New Zealand.

Work to Residence
The Work to Residence category allows you to get a temporary work visa and/or permit as a step towards gaining permanent residence. Applicants may be qualified in occupations that are in demand in New Zealand, or may have exceptional talent in sports or the arts.

[Kerry and David]

Thanks to everyone for your responses. I will have a look at the links you have provided. I think having read all the excellent information on this forum we could do it ourselves.
We are going to get booking some flights to get out in April for a look around, thinking of Wellington as we have a great age range of children to please - 17,15,13,10 & 3 my husband and I want a great beach but close enough to town for the teenagers.
Exciting times ahead!: