The New Zealand government has introduced several updates to its visa and immigration system over recent months, impacting various migrant categories. These changes incorporate increased visa fees, a new temporary work visa, work rights for migrant school leavers, and relaxed visa rules for specific foreign applicants.
Higher Visa Fees Starting October 1
One of the major changes includes an increase in visa fees, effective from October 1, 2024. This will impact almost all migrant categories. According to Erica Stanford, New Zealand’s Immigration Minister, this decision aims to establish a more sustainable immigration framework. However, this move has faced criticism from the Green Party, labelling it as “irresponsible.”
Work Rights for Migrant School Leavers Effective October 1
From October 1, 2024, foreign school leavers awaiting the approval of their family residency visa application in New Zealand will be granted work rights. Qualified applicants can engage in work for up to 20 hours per week during the school term (February 1 – November 30) and full-time up to 40 hours per week during school holidays (December 1 – January 31). Applicants must fulfill specific requirements such as eligibility for a Child of a Worker Visitor Visa or a New Zealander Visitor Visa.
Updates on Student Visa Applications
Changes also affect international students applying for visas. Starting from October 1, the fee for student visa applications will rise from NZD 375 to NZD 750. Alongside this fee hike are some updates concerning post-study work visas and new stipulations regarding application submission timelines.
These updates signify significant shifts in New Zealand’s approach to immigration, aimed at creating a more robust and well-regulated system.
New Temporary Visa to Address Demand for Seasonal Workers
The New Zealand government has introduced a new temporary work visa to meet the increasing demand for seasonal workers during peak periods. This visa will cater to roles directly influenced by weather conditions, such as harvesting, ski instruction, or tree planting.
Applicants can secure this temporary visa for up to nine months, with submissions required on or before May 31, 2025. Additionally, the government is exploring the potential for a longer-term visa option for migrant seasonal workers.
Seasonal Worker Cap Increased by 1,250
Reflecting New Zealand’s growing need for foreign seasonal workers, the government has raised the Recognised Seasonal Employer Scheme (RSE) cap by 1,250.
This cap increase comes alongside new immigration regulations affecting both migrant workers and employers.
Relaxed Immigration Rules for Certain Migrant Categories
In a move to ease work visa requirements, New Zealand relaxed rules in August 2024 for spouses of specific foreign students. Under this policy, partners of students pursuing level 7 or 8 qualifications on the Green List can now apply for an open-condition work visa.
New Zealand had previously simplified visa rules for foreign secondary school teachers due to sectoral shortages. Effective May 1, 2024, school teachers have been moved to the Straight to Residence pathway on the Green List of in-demand occupations.
Stricter Regulations Implemented for Certain Worker Categories
While some categories enjoy relaxed immigration rules, others face tightened regulations. Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) holders in certain Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO) levels 4 and 5 without a residency pathway are now restricted from sponsoring work, visitor, or student visas for their partners and dependent children.
Authorities implemented this policy to address unsustainable migration levels but clarified that it would not affect individuals already holding visas as partners or dependent children.
New Zealand to Enforce NZeTA for Cargo Ship Crew and Passengers from April 2025
Starting April 1, 2025, foreign cargo ship crew and passengers entering New Zealand must obtain a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA). This new regulation is in line with the current requirement for cruise ship passengers and crew that has been in place since 2019.
The mandate also extends to foreign vessel crews involved in transporting coastal cargo within New Zealand. In 2023, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) processed approximately 1.4 million NZeTAs, achieving a remarkable approval rate of 99.89%.
