The New Zealand government has announced a series of key adjustments to its visa and immigration policies over the last few months, with several new regulations taking effect on October 1, 2024. These changes, aimed at addressing labor shortages and streamlining immigration processes, include increased visa fees, a new temporary work visa, and work rights for migrant school leavers.

Visa Fee Increase from October 1, 2024

One of the most impactful changes is the increase in visa application fees. From October 1 onwards, nearly all visa categories will see a rise in their application costs. International applicants seeking to visit or reside in New Zealand will need to budget for these additional expenses as part of their immigration process.

Work Rights for Migrant School Leavers

Starting October 1, 2024, migrant school leavers waiting for the outcome of their family residency visa applications will be granted the right to work part-time. Qualifying students can work up to 20 hours per week from February through November, and up to 40 hours per week during the summer months of December and January. This policy applies to those eligible for a Child of a Worker Visitor Visa or a New Zealander Visitor Visa. This change is expected to offer more financial stability for young migrants as they await their residency outcomes.

Increased Costs for Student Visas

Another major update is the increase in fees for student visa applications. From October 1, the cost will jump from NZD 375 to NZD 750. This move, coupled with new guidelines on post-study work visas, is part of New Zealand’s broader strategy to clarify immigration rules for international students, ensuring a smooth transition for those looking to work after their studies.

New Temporary Work Visa to Address Seasonal Labor Demand

To address seasonal labor shortages, particularly in sectors affected by weather conditions like agriculture, ski instruction, and tree planting, New Zealand is introducing a new temporary work visa. This visa, valid for up to nine months, is designed to allow foreign workers to meet the seasonal demand for labor. Applications for this visa must be submitted by May 31, 2025, after which the government may consider a longer-term solution for migrant seasonal workers.

Increase in Seasonal Worker Quota

New Zealand’s Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme is also undergoing changes. The government has increased the cap for seasonal workers by 1,250 for the 2024/25 season, allowing more foreign workers to fill labor shortages in critical sectors like agriculture. This move underscores New Zealand’s growing reliance on seasonal labor to support its agricultural economy.

Easing of Immigration Rules for Certain Migrants

New Zealand has also relaxed work visa requirements for specific migrant groups. Partners of foreign students enrolled in level 7 or 8 Green List qualifications can now apply for open work visas. Similarly, secondary school teachers were moved to the Straight to Residence pathway in May 2024, making it easier for them to obtain residency. These changes are aimed at attracting skilled migrants and addressing shortages in key sectors like education.

Stricter Rules for Accredited Employer Work Visa Holders

On the other hand, certain categories of Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) holders are now subject to stricter regulations. Those working in occupations classified under the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO) levels 4 and 5 without a residency pathway will no longer be able to sponsor visas for their partners or dependent children. This policy is designed to control unsustainable migration levels while not affecting those who already hold partner or dependent visas.

New Electronic Travel Requirement for Cargo Ship Crew and Passengers in 2025

Looking ahead to 2025, New Zealand will introduce a new Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) requirement for foreign cargo ship crew and passengers starting from April 1, 2025. This requirement mirrors the NZeTA system already in place for cruise ship passengers and crew since 2019. The new policy is expected to streamline immigration procedures for maritime workers, enhancing security and efficiency.

With over 1.4 million NZeTA applications processed in 2023 and a 99.89% approval rate, New Zealand continues to refine its immigration systems to support the growing demand for international travel and labor, while maintaining stringent border controls.

New Zealand’s latest immigration updates reflect the government’s commitment to balancing labor needs with sustainable migration, ensuring the country remains an attractive destination for skilled workers, students, and travelers.

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