From October 1, 2024, New Zealand will implement significant visa fee increases, affecting tourists, students, and workers alike. The move is part of the New Zealand government’s strategy to create a sustainable immigration system.
Doubling Visa Fees: A Strategy for Sustainability
Immigration Minister Erica Stanford mentioned that the new fees aim to make the immigration system financially independent. “Our adjustments are aimed at transferring the expenses to those who benefit from the system. We’re ensuring it sustains itself and operates efficiently ” Stanford explained.
According to reports, from ICEF Monitor this rise in fees is expected to reduce the pressure on funds by NZ$563 million (around $338 million) in the next four years. Despite this increase visa costs in New Zealand remain competitive when compared with those of countries, like Australia and the UK.
Impact on Indian Students
Indian students, who make up the group of international students, in New Zealand will face a notable impact from this adjustment. The student visa fees are set to rise from NZ$375 to NZ$750 (Rs 38,191). Despite this increase, the fees remain lower than those in Australia, where student visa expenses have surged to AUD$1,600.
New Zealand has consistently been a favoured choice for students as shown by a 67% rise in student enrollments in 2023 reported by Education New Zealand (ENZ). Indians represent 17% of these enrollments contributing to a total of 69,135 international students – signalling a substantial recovery, towards pre-pandemic levels.
However, the increased costs could deter future enrolments. The already troubling visa rejection rates compound this issue. Anuj Gupta, CEO of Youngrads, noted that rejection rates spiked from 28% in 2022 to 40% in 2023. “This has led to many students missing out on opportunities and even losing a year of studies,” Gupta said.
Tourist Visas Become Pricier
For prospective Indian tourists, the new visa fees will make trips to New Zealand more expensive. Tourist visa fees will increase from NZ$190 to NZ$300 (approx Rs 15,276).
Changes to New Zealand’s Work Visa Requirements
For those interested in securing work visas for New Zealand, it’s important to note that the changes are much more extensive than just financial aspects. The New Zealand government has introduced stricter regulations governing work visas.
In June, adjustments were made that affected some foreign workers’ ability to bring their families. Specifically, individuals holding an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) at ANZSCO skill levels 4 and 5, who lack a clear path to residency, will no longer be able to sponsor their partners and dependent children for work, visitor, or student visas.
ANZSCO skill levels serve as a classification system for jobs based on the required skills. Skill levels 1 to 3 generally necessitate higher qualifications or considerable work experience. In contrast, skill levels 4 and 5 include occupations requiring less formal education, such as personal care assistants or bicycle mechanics.
For Indian workers in these lower-skilled roles, these new work visa changes mean their families will face added challenges if they wish to join them in New Zealand. However, it’s important for those already holding visas to know they will remain unaffected. Families can also still apply for their visas, provided they meet the required criteria.
If you’re planning to apply for work visas in New Zealand, especially at ANZSCO skill levels 4 and 5, understanding these new regulations is crucial.
