Hi guys,
New to the forum and as stated in the introductions will hopefully be submitting an EOI (leading to skilled migrant residency) by early next year. However ive still got quite a few questions before proceeding. At one point was considering an immigration lawyer until they dropped the $4000 bomb quote of fees alone on me. The problem ive been having is finding information on the internet about people emigrating with experience in the hospitality industry.
I am currently employed as bar manager at a restaurant in town renowned for its high quality in food and service. Ive been working there over a year already and was offered sponsorship which was approved as a work visa in May and valid for one year. My work experience extends over 7 years across the UK, Australia and NZ, with the majority being in Award winning places with very high standards. However, because ive spent the last 4 years travelling, the only management experience i have is just over 2 years back in the UK and 1 year here in NZ. I also just recently completed an LCQ certificate (Level 4 NZQA).
So my first question is would my additional experience (non management) be counted as relevant experience even if it was cocktail bartending or waiting on to meet the 5 year work experience requirement? Also would the recent qualification count towards the total, reducing the amount of experience needed?
I know i can meet the minimum 100points to submit an EOI but im wondering if they will discount my experience in the industry, even though it was all valuable.
Thanks for any help and replies in advance!
Also anyone who is also working in the hospitality industry i would really like to hear your story when its comes to applying for visas (we seem to be a rare breed!)