Dear everyone,
I was a bit late to find out my ability to qualify for SMC application (long term shortage + level 7 degree + >8 years of relevant experience + level 7 degree for spouse -> 140+ points with no job offer). So right now I’m waiting for my student visa to study the Master program in NZ in Mar 2014 as planned and, meanwhile, I’m collecting papers to start IQA process in a couple of weeks.
I had a brief talk on phone with a certified immigration adviser and he mentioned that if I go to NZ under a Student Visa, applying for Residency Visa under SMC then it would be “complicated” because I express to NZ Immigration that I go to NZ for studying then it turns out that I want to migrate. However, I have a doubt on his argument since I thought 1 year staying/ studying in NZ would add much advantage for me since it help me understand about NZ much better before the interview at the end of the Visa application process. Ideally, I would like to find job in NZ with a residency visa in hand after finishing my Master program by end of 2014
So, I would like to hear your thought/ advice/ compliment on my situation. If applying for Residency Visa under SMC while being a student would really bring any harm to my application then what alternative could I choose? I really don’t want to delay the Master program since I’ve prepared for it, adjusted my life plan for it, and even paid my tuition in advance.
Many thanks for your help and I look forward to hearing from you