October 2024 introduced a number of vital updates from Immigration New Zealand (INZ) that have an effect on visa candidates, present visa holders, and employers alike. Right here’s a breakdown of those modifications and what they imply.
1. Elevated visa charges and Worldwide Customer Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL)
From 1 October, INZ launched greater visa software charges throughout varied classes to raised replicate processing prices. Moreover, the Worldwide Customer Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) elevated from NZD $35 to $100. This levy now applies to most customer visas, the New Zealand Digital Journey Authority (NZeTA), pupil visas (excluding dependent kids), and a few work visas, together with working vacation visas.
Learn our detailed breakdown of payment will increase.
2. Migrant Exploitation Safety Work Visa (MEPV) modifications
On 31 October, INZ made a number of updates to the Migrant Exploitation Safety Work Visa (MEPV). Modifications embody the elimination of the choice to use for a second MEPV, clarified definitions of exploitation, and restrictions on eligibility for instances of lawful terminations or redundancies.
Learn our article on the MEPV modifications right here.
3. Work rights for companions of Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) holders
Efficient 2 December 2024, companions of AEWV holders working in high-skilled roles (ANZSCO Ranges 1–3) shall be eligible for open work rights in New Zealand. In the meantime, companions of employees in roles categorised as Ranges 4–5 may have employment restricted to particular industries, akin to tourism, hospitality, and residential care. This adjustment gives flexibility for companions of expert AEWV holders whereas addressing industry-specific workforce wants.
For extra info, see our article on AEWV accomplice work rights.
4. Three-year visa choice for companions of New Zealand residents or residents
From 1 October 2024, companions of New Zealand residents or residence class visa holders are eligible for a piece or customer visa with a most length of three years, prolonged from the earlier two-year restrict. This new three-year length applies to new purposes and pending purposes submitted earlier than 1 October. Present visa holders might want to apply anew in the event that they want to profit from the longer length. This modification goals to supply extra stability for {couples} whereas they plan for residency purposes.
Study extra in regards to the partnership visa extension right here.
5. Alternative of ANZSCO with the Nationwide Occupation Record (NOL)
INZ is transitioning from the Australian and New Zealand Normal Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO) system to a brand new, NZ-specific Nationwide Occupation Record (NOL). This shift aligns with NZ’s distinctive employment wants, providing a extra tailor-made strategy to assessing occupations and roles crucial to New Zealand’s labour market.
Learn our in-depth article on the NOL transition right here.
6. Vietnam Working Vacation Scheme expands
The Vietnam Working Vacation Scheme reopened on 24 October, with an elevated cap of 200 visas—double the earlier restrict of 100. This growth permits extra younger Vietnamese residents to expertise residing and dealing in New Zealand, supporting cultural trade and workforce wants.
7. China Particular Work Visa enhancements
From 14 October 2024, the China Particular Work Visa was expanded as a part of the New Zealand-China Free Commerce Settlement (FTA). The up to date visa now consists of broader {qualifications} for Chinese language cooks and tourism specialists, aiming to strengthen {industry} ties between New Zealand and China by attracting expert professionals in these sectors.
8. New work rights for migrant college leavers awaiting residence
Beginning 1 October 2024, sure migrant highschool leavers awaiting a choice on their household residence purposes can apply for part-time work rights. Eligible people, aged 17–24, can now work as much as 20 hours per week throughout the college time period and as much as 40 hours per week throughout vacation breaks. This modification gives younger migrants a beneficial alternative to assist themselves whereas ready for his or her residence purposes to be processed.
