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For Individuals

Relocations

Do I need a visa to come to New Zealand?

Most people will require a visa to enter New Zealand.  Those only entering as a visitor for less than 3 months (6 months for UK citizens) and if you are a citizen of a visa waiver country, then you do not need to apply for a visa and instead you can apply for a New Zealand electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA).

You can find a list of visa waiver countries here. You can apply for an NZeTA online or by downloading the free app.

Can you help me to obtain a New Zealand work visa?

Yes, we can help you with any visa requirements as we also have a dedicated legal Immigration Advisor team here at Woburn International. With this, we can arrange all your requirements in-house and you do not have to worry about handling separate consultancies.

What is the process of obtaining a visa for New Zealand?

There are many different visa types, and each has its own processes and requirements.  Please get in touch and we can determine the best visa type for your situation and guide you through the process.

Can I bring my family with me to New Zealand when I am offered a job?

Yes, in most cases you can support your family on visas. Depending on various factors such as income and position these can determine what kind of visas your family can obtain. For example, not all partners are eligible for work visas and would only be granted a visitor visa.

How do I know if I am offered a job by a genuine employer?

There are many job offer scams currently. Please be aware that a New Zealand employer cannot ask for any payment for a job offer. If you are being asked for payment this is a warning sign. Fake job offers usually have different formatting, spelling errors and typos. Please be careful and if you have a job offer you are concerned about get in touch with us.

Can anyone give Immigration advice for New Zealand?

Only people who are licensed can provide advice on New Zealand immigration matters, unless they are exempt under the Immigration Advisers Licensing Act 2007. People who are exempt include New Zealand lawyers and Citizens Advice Bureau staff.

What is a Licenced Immigration Adviser?

Licensed immigration advisers (LIAs) have been issued a licence by the NZ Government through Immigration Advisers Authority. They have specialist expertise, have met the competency standards and follow a professional Code of Conduct. 

The code requires advisers to: 

  • Be honest, professional and respectful.
  • Enter into a contract with you that sets out clearly what services they will provide and what they will cost.
  • Provide you with ongoing timely updates.
  • Charge fees that are fair and reasonable. 

What is the difference between a Licensed Immigration Adviser and an Immigration Lawyer?

a)            A Licensed Immigration Advisor must hold a degree or previous immigration industry experience and then undertake study for a graduate diploma in New Zealand Immigration.

b)            New Zealand lawyers do not need a qualification in New Zealand immigration to practice but they must hold a current Practising Certificate – no specialisation required.

What are the risks of applying for my own Visa?

The immigration system for New Zealand is complex and can be overwhelming. Mistakes can have serious consequences. The consequences may not necessarily be picked up on your initial application but can further down the track when applying for residence. Working with a licensed immigration adviser can avoid these issues, so it is better to reach out to start your process rather than when mistakes have already been made and need correcting.

Can you help me with finding a suitable job in New Zealand?

If you need any assistance with finding a job, we may be able to help.  For over 30 years we have been working in immigration and relocation, assisting companies worldwide with their needs, and because of our reputation we are regularly being approached for assistance.  Please reach out to our office for more information.

What areas in New Zealand do you cover?

We cover all locations in New Zealand.

Why should I use a Relocation Company to help me with my move to New Zealand?

We are experts in relocating people from all countries to New Zealand. We have the know-how and expertise to make your relocation as stress-free as possible. We have been in the business for over 30 years and we have the experience to provide you with a well-planned destination programme and service that will enrich your relocation experience for your whole family. We know that a move to another country is challenging for all involved and we understand the needs of transferees. We are here to make your move as stress free as possible.

Can you book temporary accommodation before we get to New Zealand?

Yes, we will book suitable temporary accommodation as per your instructions. We have a wide selection of options available in all major cities for all budgets and requirements.

Can I bring my pets with me to New Zealand?

New Zealand has extremely strict animal import regulations, all requirements and timelines for vaccinations and blood tests, etc. must be met for importing your pets.  We suggest contacting a pet transport agency in your home country to establish the exact requirements for bringing your pet to New Zealand.

Which services do you offer?

We offer help with your Settlement in New Zealand.   This may include:

  • Area Orientation
  • Home Finding Assistance
  • Temporary Accommodation
  • Longer term accommodation through Home finding
  • School / pre-school / kindergarten search
  • Settling-In assistance

We also offer tailored services for your individual needs. In most cases, the most beneficial approach we recommend is a bundled approach. This enables you to receive a combination of tailor-made services within a set budget of hours.

Will you be able to find work in New Zealand for my partner?

If you need any assistance with finding a job, we may be able to help.  For over 30 years we have been working in immigration and relocation, assisting companies worldwide with their needs, and because of our reputation we are regularly being approached for assistance.  Please reach out to our office for more information.

We will arrive in New Zealand but our furniture arrival is taken longer than expected to get here – can you help with arranging rental furniture?

Yes, we work with rental furniture providers of a very high standard. We will arrange for quotations, organise the delivery and also the pickup once your furniture has arrived.

Why should I use a Relocation Company to help me with my move to New Zealand?

We are experts in relocating people from all countries to New Zealand. We have the know-how and expertise to make your relocation as stress-free as possible. We have been in the business for over 30 years and we have the experience to provide you with a well-planned destination programme and service that will enrich your relocation experience for your whole family. We know that a move to another country is challenging for all involved and we understand the needs of transferees. We are here to make your move as stress free as possible.

Can you book temporary accommodation before we get to New Zealand?

Yes, we will book suitable temporary accommodation as per your instructions. We have a wide selection of options available in all major cities for all budgets and requirements.

Is there an International School in New Zealand?

No, there are no International Schools available in New Zealand as the curriculum is taught in English. There is a large variety of excellent public and private schools available in New Zealand. We will guide you through the process of finding a school that suits your children’s needs with our accompanied school search programme. This will give you an overview and in-depth information of the New Zealand Education system and will enable you to make an informed decision.

What is the standard of housing like in New Zealand?

New Zealand is an incredibly beautiful country; however, our standard of housing is different to many countries around the world. More money may be required to rent a property to the standard you may be used to, particularly in Auckland and Wellington.

I am only staying for one year - Do I need to apply for an IRD number?

Yes, you will have to apply for an IRD number in New Zealand. Everyone working and earning income here must have one.  You need an IRD number for any tax related obligations you have or entitlements you get in NZ. Common examples of when you need an IRD number include:

  • Earning income, for example from a job, benefit, or investment.
  • Opening a bank account.
  • Buying, selling, or transferring property in New Zealand.

Can I bring my pets with me to New Zealand?

New Zealand has extremely strict animal import regulations, all requirements and timelines for vaccinations and blood tests, etc. must be met for importing your pets.  We suggest contacting a pet transport agency in your home country to establish the exact requirements for bringing your pet to New Zealand.

I have 2 dogs – will it be difficult to find a rental home?

We love our pets here in New Zealand, however unlike some countries it is VERY hard to rent in New Zealand with pets – especially dogs. But our experienced relocation consultants will make finding a home for you and your furry friends as easy and smooth as possible. We have lots of practice in finding suitable properties where pets are allowed.

For Businesses

What is a Licenced Immigration Adviser?

Licensed immigration advisers (LIAs) have been issued a licence by the NZ Government through Immigration Advisers Authority. They have specialist expertise, have met the competency standards and follow a professional Code of Conduct.

The code requires advisers to:

  • Be honest, professional and respectful.
  • Enter into a contract with you that sets out clearly what services they will provide and what they will cost.
  • Provide you with ongoing timely updates.
  • Charge fees that are fair and reasonable.

What is the difference between a Licensed Immigration Adviser and an Immigration Lawyer?

a)            A Licensed Immigration Advisor must hold a degree or previous immigration industry experience and then undertake study for a graduate diploma in New Zealand Immigration.

b)            New Zealand lawyers do not need a qualification in New Zealand immigration to practice but they must hold a current Practising Certificate – no specialisation required.