Does "Immediate Skill Shortage List"= Skilled Migrant?

[Ideabaker]

I've been informed that as a schoolteacher, I am on the "Immediate Skill Shortage" list... does that mean that I am considered a "Skilled Migrant"? And hence can do an EOI?

Thanks for any help you can provide!

[MotherBear]

There are a couple of categories on the LTSSL that involve teaching. Have you check for yourself that your job title isn't on there?

The ISSL can't be used for submitting an EOI, only occupations on the Long Term Skill Shortage List allow this. You can, however, apply for a Work Permit or a Work to Residence visa under the Talent (Accredited Employers) Work Policy, but would need a job offer first.

[Ideabaker]

Thanks again, M Bear; no primary school teachers on the long term shortage list, only the immediate shortage list. I was thinking of taking a job with the work to residency as a primary school teacher while completing a pre-school (on the LTSS list) certification, then switching over while in NZ. Does it take longer to do work to residency if my position is only on the ISSL?

Again, thank you!

[MotherBear]

You need to work for 2 years on a WTR visa before you can apply for PR. In this case your job offer needs to be for at least 2 years. I've heard of some people applying earlier though, if they have managed to get their points up. It can be quicker to apply for a WTR visa than PR so that's one bonus but you need to have a job offer with an accredited employer and a salary of $55,000 or over.