My spouse and I are considering moving from the US to NZ (we just need a change) and was wondering what kind of advice you would have for someone considering this.

Go to the NZ immigration website and see if you qualify first.

Lee Ann

Sorry, I have no special knowledge. The first thing I'd do would be to check the website of the NZ immigration department (by whatever name it goes under) to see whether you qualify for residency. Or you could contact your nearest NZ consulate. You should not assume that New Zealand would grant you residency.

I know that quite a few Americans have migrated to NZ and established businesses such as wineries there - but obviously they've brought investment capital with them, which makes a difference. Are you in a position to do that, or do you have marketable job skills that are in demand in NZ? I would think that "just need a change" would be unconvincing on an application for permanent residency.

Have you ever visited NZ, or are you basing this idea on impressions of the country from afar? Remember the old saying - the grass is always greener on the other side.

The website is http://www.immigration.govt.nz/

Lee Ann

Although New Zealand is lovely, the cost of living there
would be quite shocking to most North Americans
(consider gas is $1.70 a litre) . Clothing and accomodations are very expensive.