hello, 'just something to contribute to fellow migrators.
What is WTR?
Work to Residency, this is a visa allowing you to work temporarily in New Zealand with the goal of gaining residency. Official information can be found here. The requirement differs on each applications but most often, a job offer is necessary.
Then, what kind of WTR is the one offered for Skilled Migrant Applicants?
Skilled migrants applicants without a job offer have the tendency (not all applicants) to be given a WTR offer, and have their residency applications deferred for 12 months. This WTR, is a bit different from the normal WTR visa as the requirements are very minimal. This is because bulk of requirements have been submitted along with the ITA already.
What are the requirements for this WTR?
First, this WTR must be filed within 3 months upon receipt of offer (email). I believe the reason for this short time is because your personal profile could have change a lot if the deadline is longer. The offer is made based on the ITA you filed, hence, application must be submitted immediately.
Requirements:
- Fill-up 2 documents. 1) "Additional Information Documents" (similar to the one submitted in the ITA), and 2) WTR Application Form, which I suppose is different than the WTR application form not coming from a deferred Skilled Migrant Application.
- Proof of funds to stay in NZ for 3 months. This is $1000 (NZD) per month per individual if accommodation hasn't been arranged, or $400 (NZD) per month per individual if there's accomodation set already. This is officially stated here.
- Original Valid Passport
- Courier Fee of $25(USD) payable to New Zealand Immigration Service, add $10 (USD) if bankdraft was made in USD
There is no need to pay any processing fee.
How quick is the processing time?
Now, this is a debatable item as NZIS is either hit or miss. However, I bet it won't be a long wait as they won't be assigning a new case officer for your application. it would be the same case officer as the one who received your ITA.
What is the expiry date of this WTR?
WTR visa must be used within 3 months upon issue.
Is it specified which job is allowed to perform in thisWTR?
Location and nature of work are unspecified in the visa. Hence, any kind of work, at least legal , is fine.
How long is this WTR valid?
The visa will allow you to work for up to a period of 9 months in NZ.
What will happen to my deferred residency application?
After moving to NZ by WTR, securing a skilled job, and keeping it for atleast 3 months, you can have your residency reassessed. The additional requirements will be submitted in nearest immigration office in NZ, or unless specified. You will not be submitting it to the branch where you had your original ITA assessed.
What if i find job within my 9-month WTR permit but it falls short of the 3-month requirement to have my residency reassessed?
You could request for extension of another 3 months of your current WTR.
What are the additional requirements for my residency to be reassessed?
Proof of work such as certificate of employment detailing job description and responsibilities, pay slips, your passport of course, among others.
Do I need to exit NZ before my 9-month WTR expires even if I have my residency approved already within the WTR validity?
No, you don't need to exit NZ in this case.
Hope this makes sense. 'Might add some more if I can think of anything relevant. This might be limited to NZIS Beijing branch though.
Cheers!