[limeo]

I searched for an answer (or hint to one) on the NZ Immigration site and through searching these forums... but was wondering if someone can provide a straightforward response.

What exactly is the difference between WTR and SM? Which one gets you to NZ quicker? Can you go on a work visa then transfer to WTR or SM? I can't imagine doing the EOI, then applying for residency via SM - that seems to take forever, and I don't want to stay here any longer than I have to!!! :uhoh

Thanks!
Abby

[BkyMonster]

WTR is for if you don't have enough points for the EOI or is awarded instead of PR if they doubt your ability to integrate and settle in NZ.
You can get a work visa and then apply for PR via the SMC if you have enough points yes. I think it takes a bit longer if you are in NZ than if you had a job offer and were overseas, but both are generally quicker than SMC with no job offer (takes about a year with minimal complications).

[elleann]

Abby, from my experience this is what I have learned:

I got my NZ registration, got a job offer and then applied for a work visa, saying I wanted a multiple entry one as we'd be applying for PR once in NZ. The visa was approved within two weeks and when it came back, I had been given a WTR visa, valid for 30 months. This was probably due to my job offer being for a permanent position and not for a limited contract position.

Research then showed that I could arrive in NZ and from there, initiate my PR application immediately OR I could wait and work for two years and THEN initiate PR application. The difference would be in the costs and timing, obviously - WTR after two years is cheaper than direct PR application. But both are definitely possible and WTR (or any work visa) will get you here quicker.

Good luck!
Linda