SMC Visa and EOI points - no job offer

[SFahy]

Hi all, I am hoping somebody can advise? Planning our move to NZ and just been advised not to apply for our EOI for SMC visa until we have a job offer. Current points are up to 135 and with a job offer could potentially go up another 80 points. The problem I have is engaging with NZ employers while offshore. I am in the IT industry and my husband is in construction. Seriously considering doing a visitor visa and try look for work while there on that. We reckon my husband will pick up work quicker than me but it is a risk. Also if we did that - could we then apply for a SMC as myself being the primary applicant with the degree and the job offer coming from my husband?
Thanks and look forward to any suggestions

[ChrisMwn]

A couple of points:

Unless you have 140 points (without a job offer) you wont be selected.
With a job offer you only require 100 points.

There is no advantage in claiming more points that you need to, to be selected.

A "look see decide" visit is always useful and will put you (both) in a better position with potential employers.

Whoever had the job offer would normally be the principal applicant.

[SFahy]

Thanks for the reply ChrisMwn, I did not know you only require 100 points with a job offer. Yep I think my husband might do the "look see decide" visit. On that point, if he manages to get a job offer while on the visitor visa - can he then apply to change the visa?

[ChrisMwn]

yes he can. he'd be wise to then submit EOI, and on the basis that its then selected apply for an essential skills work visa without having to worry about a labour market test.

[SFahy]

cheers for the info
I definitely think this is the way forward for us