Visa changes to benefit migrants to New Zealand

Temporary migrants to New Zealand who are seeking longer-term work visas will soon be able continue working legally while awaiting the outcome of their visa applications.

Such migrants will be able to obtain interim work visas, allowing them to continue to work lawfully while applying for new, longer-term visas.

New Zealand’s Minister of Immigration Jonathan Coleman announced the changes yesterday and they will be introduced in March next year.

“For some time temporary migrants have been falling through the gaps because in the period between applying for a new permit and receiving that permit, their legal immigration status has lapsed.  Knowing they can maintain lawful status while applying for a new visa will provide peace of mind for migrants,” he said.

Dr Coleman also confirmed new sponsorship provisions will be introduced in November.  Those provisions will allow organisations and government departments to sponsor migrants when previously only individuals could.

‘'Allowing organisations and government agencies to sponsor under the Talent and Visitor policies better reflects the sponsorship needs of stakeholders, such as community and sporting groups,'' Dr Coleman said.

‘'Sponsorship is also key to protecting the Crown from the costs of people accessing New Zealand's publicly-funded services without entitlement.  Those who sponsor the entry of the foreign national can be held liable for debts the person incurs.''

More information on obtaining a New Zealand visa can be found here