A roundup of the latest immigration changes

Immigration policy and rules are constantly reviewed and changed. The Malcolm Pacific Immigration team keeps ahead of any changes. Here are the latest headlines.

• Increased government application fees went live on 1 October 2024. The increases are substantial. Planning to apply for a visa? Take advice to avoid wasting money.

• The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) scheme is under review. Expect more changes to the scheme in 2025.

• The Skilled Migrant Category (points system) and Green List (occupations/skills in short supply/high demand) are going to be reviewed in 2025. Expect change.

• The deadline to apply for a visitor visa for anyone wanting to be in New Zealand by Christmas is 15 October 2024.

• From late October 2024, children aged 17 to 24 who are included in their parent's skilled residence application, or their own dependent child residence application will gain work rights. The residence application must be lodged, the child needs to hold an eligible visitor visa and be the child of a NZ citizen/resident or work visa holder and have completed high school (if 17 years old) or be aged 18 to 24 years old. Work rights will be granted for 20 hours a week or 40 hours a week over the summer holidays. More information in our next newsletter.

• Want to study in New Zealand as an international student? Malcolm Pacific Immigration has a dedicated team of student experts who can help find a suitable course of study and manage the student visa application. Student Visa applications should be lodged 3 months before a course of study is due to start. Get in touch with our student team today.