Converting from Work to Residency Visa to PR

[Lara]

My Husband and I are both here on Work to Residency visas. They expire in Sept 2008 (so have almost completed the two year requirement). We are now wanting to obtain PR status. On visiting Queen Street we were informed that we needed to complete the SAME paperwork to convert to PR. Why? This information is already on file. Surely immigration is interested in our two year experience ie we now own property, community membership, work experience etc. We are both employed in the Education sector. My husband specifically recruited to the position. My position was advertised for more than a year! I am very confused and not certain what to do. There is no one to speak to, no advice available from HR. Could someone out there please help.

[MotherBear]

Hi Lara and .

I'm afraid you do have to do the paperwork again and, I believe, the medical and police certificates, which would have expired by now. It does seem annoying and pointless to have to repeat all this. I guess the first lot of documentation is for the WTR application and when your PR application goes in you jump in at the ITA stage where it's all needed again.

If I'm wrong about this, I hope someone will correct me.

[Alison]

I'm afraid yes there is a load more paperwork, we have another 11 months before we can apply for PR from our WTR visa but out of curiosity I looked into what we would have to do and you will have to complete all the 'Residency from work' forms, plus as MB says get all new Police certs (I am presuming from both NZ and the UK now) and medicals and x rays Plus to top it of you need to get some form of document from the IRD stating your wages meet the required amount i.e $45,000 for our circumstances.

Here is a link with all the details if it helps Talent (Accredited Employers) – how to apply It costs $700 for the application, but I dont know if that covers both of you or whether you would have to do an application each, plus there is then the migrant levy on top of that once your PR is approved ..... Money, Money, Money

Good luck with your application and I would be interested to hear how it goes for you

[Cliff]

They want the latest and greatest info on you. Things can change a lot in 2 years. You have done it before so it will be easier this time.

[Lara]

Hi Mother Bear
Do we need to get police clearance certificates for the time that we have been in NZ?

[MotherBear]

I have it in my mind that INZ will do the necessary for your time in NZ. I think they carry out the checks themselves, which is one thing less for you to do.

If anyone knows any different, I'm sure they'll let us know.