Hi guys,
please keep in mind that my request is very hypothetical and I am making couple of assumptions in those unclear times. However, I would like to get an idea about SMC processing times/priorisation before the Covid pandemic, I know this might change significantly in the forseeable future.
Our current situation:
family with 3 kids, we would like to immigrate to NZ in the next 2 years, we spent 6 years in NZ (2010-16) back then on a work visa.
I have already received a job offer from my former employer (position senior manager, retirement replacement), they are willing to wait until we can make the move
my job is on the long term skill shortage list
EOI points indicator: 235
my income will be above the current remuneration threshold
Our objective:
Our aim is preferably to have an approved residency application prior to our arrival in NZ. Based on the current boarder restrictions we would like to avoid a path via a temporary work visa to have the opportunity to travel back to Europe and being able to re-enter NZ again in case of a family emergency, holidays etc. (assumption: similar future lockdown situations)
My question:
I am aware about the backlog and long processing times of SMC applications (up to 18months+)
Would we qualify for a priorisation even if we are offshore applicants but with a job offer and income above the remuneration threshold? How long does the approval process approximately take if it is prioritised?
Please also feel free to share any experiences from the past matching our situation.
Thanks in advance for your support
Best Regards
Martin