Faster processing of SMC applications - a tip

[Karen Phillips]

Since the beginning of 2015 the new system for processing SMC applications is really beginning to make a positive difference. For example, two very similar SMC applications, both including a job offer for a job on the LTSSL, both applicants single and already on work visas in NZ. Both lodged in Henderson. No complications. One was lodged in July 2014 and got a Case Officer in January 2015 (and finally got the stamp in his passport yesterday). The other was lodged in late February 2015 and got a case officer within two weeks.

One of the new factors is that there are very tight time-frames to provide additional information - usually about 3 days. One of the most common requests is for IRD statements. So, if you are in NZ already and have an IRD number, make sure you register online, make the required phone call and then if you are asked to provide this information you can do it more or less instantly.

Other common requests are for the last 3 months' wage slips and bank statements and updated partnership evidence. This applies particularly if your application has been waiting in the system for a while.

I hope that helps!

[Sun777]

Nice tips Karen, I'm sure these are handy and much useful like your posts

[swearwolves]

So, what happens if you don't meet this tight 3-day deadline?

[Karen Phillips]

I have never put this to the test. If I felt the deadline was not feasible I would ask for an extension. If not, then I guess the application either goes to the bottom of the pile or the decision is made on the basis of information already supplied. If I find out more I will post the answer.

[harmon]

Thanks Karen... this is indeed a good tip

[nms.sun3]

Is this new system applicable for SMC files from overseas ??

[Karen Phillips]

It should be happening in all INZ Offices - but some may have caught up with the queue before others. London is very quick right now for applications that include a job offer!

[nms.sun3]

Thanks Karen. I hope it's not only applicable for EOI with job offer.

[nathanm]

Hi,

I'm hoping I can get some help in here urgently. Firstly this came as a great relief as I am someone who submitted residency application in February and have been assigned a case officer today : ) For those that are interested submitted to Auckland Central with a job offer and a partner.

I have two problems though. Firstly the CO has requested a transcript for my degree. I don't have this document, in the application I sent off it said a transcript would be helpful not that it is a necessity (application checklist).

Secondly partnership evidence issue - My partner and I have been teaching English in China living together in total for over 2 years but all paperwork is in the name of the school we worked for. We sent our contracts with this information in and she is not accepting this as evidence. The problem is our passports and driving licenses are registered to separate UK addresses. Is there anything we can do about that?

I'd really like help with the first issue though pretty please : )

[Karen Phillips]

Hi. Is your degree on the List of Qualifications Exempt from Assessment (http://www.immigration.govt.nz/opsmanual/35171.htm) or did you obtain an IQA from NZQA? The Case Officer may need to check that the degree content is indeed relevant to the job you have been offered if you need those points to reach 100. I had never had an academic transcript because my first UK degree and post-grad diploma were so long ago that this was just not the way it happened. However, I managed to obtain a transcript very quickly from two different universities. I am sure you could obtain this quickly.

In terms of the partnership evidence though, this could be tricky. You can show simultaneous flights to and from China, I imagine, maybe a letter from the school, confirming that you are a couple and lived together in China. Do you have a joint bank account? You will really need to think about what evidence you can find of living at the same address, sharing your household expenses and socialising together - trip to see the Great Wall??? Photos there? Hope it goes well for you.