Visa categories about to close and visas that expire

Anyone in New Zealand needs to keep their visa valid at all times. This includes work, student, visitor, and resident visa holders.

Why?

Anyone holding a temporary visa (work, student, or visitor) is at risk of deportation liability if their visa expires. Immigration NZ is still deporting people despite the pandemic. Applying for residence does not waive the responsibility to keep your visa valid. In fact, immigration law requires Immigration NZ to stop processing a residence application when a temporary visa expires.

For people holding Resident Visas, they do need to keep travel conditions valid. In the event of urgent overseas travel (e.g. family illness, death) knowing you can get back to New Zealand will give you peace of mind. Trying to renew travel conditions after you leave New Zealand takes a long time. Be prepared – apply now.

The Accredited Employer Work to Residence (WTR) and Long Term Skill Shortage List (LTSSL) visa categories close on Sunday, 31 October 2021. If you already hold one of these visas you can continue on a pathway to residence if the 2021 Resident Visa is not right for you. If you applied for one of these visas before 31 October 2021 Immigration NZ will still process your application. You cannot apply for one of these visas after the categories close this weekend.

Anyone holding a work visa who wants to change employers (whether the new employer is accredited or not) or change jobs should take advice before committing to a new employment offer.

Keeping up with all the visa changes rolling out in 2021 can be confusing. Talk to the friendly team at Malcolm Pacific Immigration who will be happy to discuss in confidence your personal visa situation and offer solutions.