Good morning America. As a New Zealand born naturalized American, I’ve woken up this morning wanting to believe it was all just a nightmare. But it’s not, so rather than tell you how I’m feeling about this devastating election outcome (because if you’re reading this blog on moving from the U.S., then we share the same feelings) I thought I’d give you some uplifting news.

New Zealand welcomes you! If you’re Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual or Transgender, New Zealand is a great country to live in. Ok, we’re not perfect, nowhere is, but the majority of New Zealanders believe in our basic human and civil rights. They believe we deserve equal rights and protections under the law. We were the first country to have women vote, in 1893! First to have a transgender mayor and member of parliament. We have gay marriage and no one is trying to take it away! And we’ve had two female Prime Ministers. We’ve been ranked best country in the world to live in, four years in a row!

wide opne spaces

In addition to civil rights for LGBT people, what else makes us best? Obviously our scenery and natural landscapes – just stunning. Which makes our lifestyle pretty awesome – we love being outdoors and enjoying our own back yard. Our economy is strong and there are plenty of work opportunities. As a Kiwi, I’m probably biased, but here are my reasons why I think New Zealand is a pretty fantastic place to live. But don’t just take my word for it, ‘New Zealand Now’ has a page just for American’s who are considering moving here.

Beauty and serenity

I’m by no means an immigration expert, but already many LGBT and straight friends have contacted me asking how they can move to New Zealand. So here are a few links that can get you on your way.

First off you can visit us to check us out without a visa under our visa waiver program. You may also be able to stay up to 9 months as a visitor if you can prove you have the money to support yourself. It’s a great way to be in New Zealand to see if our little piece of paradise at the bottom of the world is for you.

Escape to peace

If you think you’re ready to make the leap without visiting first, here are the options for working in New Zealand. Click on the number ‘2: Explore Visa Options to Work’ link and enter details of your own circumstances and it will lead you through your options.

Younger Americans (18 -30yrs) with NZ $4,200 in your pocket can pretty easily get a working holiday visa and under certain circumstances if can even be extended once you’re here.

Those of you in the 30 – 55 yr age range need to look at other visas. The skilled migrant category is one option, and it can lead to permanent residence here. Check out our skilled shortage list to see if your skills are needed here. If so, getting a work or residence visa may be easier. Securing a visa to work in New Zealand is a complex process, so you’re best to work with an immigration advisor to ensure you greatest chance of success.

If money is no obstacle, then age isn’t either, and you may want to consider an investor visa.  Entrepreneurs and successful business people also have visa options for starting of buying a business in New Zealand.

Of course, if you have a Kiwi partner, regardless of gender (yep, hetero or same-sex) then that’s a much easier way to go. If you don’t, maybe it’s time to visit and charm the pants off (figuratively or literally) some Kiwi guy or girl!

Beautiful Scenery

These options above are not the only options. New Zealand immigration has an excellent, easy to use website that can guide you through all the various visa options.

So if you’re seriously considering living in a more welcoming and safe country, consider us! New Zealand Awaits!