New Zealand Immigration Checklist

Moving to any country may be a daunting adventure, to help with the move we have compiled a list of must dos’s before you arrive.

18 months to go

Firstly make a visit to New Zealand, get some understanding of the local climate, desirable cities and possibly take a look at the working environment.

If this is not an option, start researching on the web, and contact other migrants Emigratenz.org has a forum which is perfect for advice.

Take a look at the different regions and cities, and investigate house prices.

Attend expos to find out more about New Zealand and potential employment.

Take a look at your finances and plan how you can best pay for the move.

Select a migration agent and investigate what type of visa you would be most suitable for.

12 months to go

Check your passports. They should be valid for at least two years before they expire.

Collect all your personal papers, including driver’s license, birth, marriage and adoption, references for employment and qualifications.

Start the visa application process

Put your house on the market.

Start job hunting and contact companies that match your skills and qualifications. Seek.co.nz and Trademe.co.nz are great places to start.

6 months to go

Inform schools that your child will be moving to give them time and help them adjust.

Book your flights to New Zealand.

Review your pension and research opportunity of transferring to NZ.

Talk to a specialist relocation company about assistance in setting up your new life.

Ask several freight companies for quotes for moving personal effects and furniture.

Research schools in New Zealand and read their websites.

Find out what you need to do to ship your pets successfully, or find a new home for them. Go for your medicals and apply for police checks for visas.

Open a New Zealand bank account.

Request credit references from your bank/lending institute.

Find temporary UK accommodation to bridge the gap between selling your house and leaving.

2 months to go

Book temporary accommodation in New Zealand and look at properties for sale.

Setup your NZ Postal address to receive your post. PrivateBox.co.nz provide a perfect service, wherever you move to you can have access to your post.

Give this address to all official contacts including your bank, passport office, DVLA, Inland Revenue and accountants.

Arrange for your post to be redirected to your Private Box address.

1 month to go

Cancel accounts for TV, Internet, phone and insurance.

Bring all your utilities and council tax up-to-date.

Give away or sell any remaining personal effects.

Pay off any outstanding debts.

Transfer funds to your New Zealand bank account.

Confirm bookings with travel agents and freight companies.

Cancel direct debits coming from your account.

Ask for a copy of your no claims bonus form from your insurance agency.

1 week to go

Say goodbye to friends and family, leave some breathing space.

Finalize packing and ensure your possessions are ready to be sent.

Change money into dollars for spending when you first arrive

Purchase little treats for children to keep them entertained on the flight.

1 day to go

Confirm transport to airport.

Double check your hand luggage has everything you need.

Try to have an early night!

With help from the above guide, moving to New Zealand should be much easier. Everyone no matter where they have been before should take on some advice. We often deal with clients who are ill prepared with canceling their bills and subscriptions. If these are not addressed prior to leaving your home you may be in for a nasty surprise.