Working online is easier in New Zealand
The NZ Government adopts online systems quite happily and for most of the time they work well. Having an online platform for visa applications adds a lot of value to the work we do as things can be managed better and more efficiently.
There is a misconception that because the form is online, it is easier to fill out. This is not true and only really applies to the fact that there are drop down menus for dates or country, which I can't see how that is any different from actually writing it on the paper form. Personally, I prefer to type than to write by hand, so online is good in this respect. However the biggest advantages to online application compared to paper based aplications are:
- You can manage the application easier after submission
- It is safer not to have to send in original documents which may get lost
- We can check exactly what was or was not written or uploaded if INZ challenge us on that later
The application process is not really about what is on the application form, but what documents are provided as evidence of meeting the specifc requirements of each visa. The application form acts as a guide to the case officer so they know what evidence they need to see and be satisfied about. Doing all this online means all the file documents are neatly in one place on the computer rather than on a desk, mistakes can quickly be fixed before they become a problem, and so on.
All applications will eventually be online, and we think that is a very good thing.