Emotional reunions
After allowing highly skilled workers and Working Holiday visa makers a few weeks ago, this week marks another major step towards a complete reopening of New Zealand, as the borders reopen to visitors from 60 visa waiver countries. The countries permitted that are known as 'visa waiver countries' include most of Europe and the Americas, as well as parts of Asia and the Middle East. Monday 2nd May saw Auckland and Christchurch airports welcome the reunion of many families who had not been able to see each other for over 2 years.
From 2 May 2022, NZ borders reopen to visitors from 60 visa waiver countries
People who hold a valid visitor visa, perhaps granted before the pandemic, and which has not expired, may also now travel to New Zealand.
A boost to the New Zealand economy
The sudden, large influx of visitors and tourists is expected to rapidly boost the New Zealand economy as tourism picks up. This will generate further employment opportunities for prospective migrants who intend to move to New Zealand long term, as the tourism and hospitality sectors are finally seeing a light at the end of the tunnel.
NZ HeraldEmployment tipped at a record low
This new milestone is part of step 3 of the Government's plan to Reconnect New Zealand with the world. The next step is 4 July, when a new Accredited Employer Work visa will allow skilled migrant to secure work rights on the basis of a job offer at median wage.
