Spring 2021 Newsletter

Spring 2021 has seen several immigration and visa announcements.

❤️️ 2021 Residence Visa:

Logistics for the first of the two phase application processes has been released by INZ. Opening date for the first phase is 1 December 2021. This is for folk who have already submitted an application for residence under either the SMC or Residence from Work options, as well as those with dependent children 17 years and older who have submitted an Expression of Interest.

❤️️ Covid-19 Vaccinations Requirement for New Arrivals:

Travellers other than New Zealand citizens under 17 years or those with a medical exemption must be vaccinated against Covid-19 prior to their arrival in New Zealand.

❤️️ Employer Accreditation:

Accredited Employer Work Visas (AEWV) applications will open 9 May 2022 and be mandatory from 4 July 2022. Engage us now to act for you if you employ migrant staff and sign up before the end of 2021. We’ll take care of the GST component of our professions fee bringing that down to $1,739.13. To request terms either email or call us today.

❤️️ Long Term Skill Shortage List Work Visa and Talent (Accredited Employer) Work Visa:

No new applications are able to be submitted to Immigration New Zealand (INZ). The pathway for existing holders of these work visas to gain residence remains; however, the new 2021 Residence Visa may be a better option.

❤️️ Migrant Exploitation:

A new visa and 0800 number has been introduced to support migrant workers who have been mistreated within the workforce.

❤️️ Online Enhancement at INZ:

A more advanced computer system will be introduced later this year with additional enhancements and, finally, allowing all visa types to be lodged online.

❤️️ Working Holiday & Seasonal Work Visa Holders:

Are to receive another automatic six-month renewal for visas expiring between 21 December 2021 and 30 June 2022.

All positive announcements, although none can be termed timely. With employer accreditation a reality in 2022, employers do ensure your immigration and employment activities are fully compliant.

Finally, a general reminder, even with numerous special Covid-19 directions: Do not allow, in any circumstances, temporary visas to expire before the grant of another visa or departure from New Zealand.

If Heartland Immigration can be of service please don’t hesitate to contact us. We are here to help.

Keep safe.

Mary Noonan

Managing Director

Heartland Immigration

Disclaimer: Mary Noonan is Heartland Immigration Ltd Managing Director, her views expressed in this article are not intended to replace the professional service provided to individual migrants by a Licensed or Registered Immigration Adviser or Migration Agent.

*Subject to terms and conditions.