Hi Pop_Kid_Wolf,

Excellent!
1. We (family of 5) have done some calculations. In the end, you'll pay more if you apply for AEWV first and then "Straight to Residence", at least in my case as a non-native English speaker and non English speaking country. However, I would say that if you are not sure if you will be staying in NZ for more than 2 years, AEWV may be the better option.

2. You can find the answer on the internet. All visas that allow you to stay for 2 years or more are eligible for health care and public/government schools (primary and secondary).

3. It took me about 8 weeks or more. The NCQA process took longer until you told them you had a job offer and wanted to apply for a visa.

4. If you have a residence class visa (e.g. Straight to Residence), you can apply for a consent (about NZD 1k) to buy a property for less than a year. Otherwise, you must first be a New Zealand taxpayer for one year (183 days). AEWV holders are not eligible to buy a property.

5. Negative: You must have all papers/requirements in place before submitting your visa application. Reqs are: NZQA, job offer, medical examination + x-rays, English test, police certificates. All documents must be translated if they are not in English.

Hope this helps.

Thanks,
WW

 

Pop Kid Wolf:
Did you ever find definitive answers to your questions?
I am currently facing the same choice & share exactly your concerns.
Interested to hear what you found out
Cheers

 

Re-posting:

Pop Kid Wolf:
Did you ever find definitive answers to your questions?
I am currently facing the same choice & share exactly your concerns.
Interested to hear what you found out
Cheers

 

Hi! Im currently facing the same problem. Can you share what you did? Thank you very much.