New Eligibility criteria for partners of international students

Good news for families moving via study pathway We are thrilled to announce a significant amendment to the immigration instructions that will bring clarity and excitement to many current and prospective students and their families. Partners of students undertaking a level 9 or 10 programme (Masters of PhD) may obtain a work visa to accompany their spouse or partner. But until this morning, programmes below level 9 were less straightforward: there was considerable confusion regarding the eligibility criteria for a …

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New Zealand Voted best for work life balance. Again

New Zealand takes the top spot, again New Zealand frequently tops the ranking of the best countries for work-life balance and was already featuring as number 1 last year as announced by Newshub. A 2024 report detailed in Remote, and relayed by Conde Nast, and BBC websites reveals that we’ve kept our top spot this year! As explained by the NZ Herald, the appeals of “heart-stopping scenery, rich Māori culture, and always-welcoming locals” made it top of the wish-list for …

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Franchisee accreditation disestablished

Franchise type of accreditation no longer in place As advised previously, the franchisee type of employer accreditation is now obsolete. Starting 16 June 2024, franchisees will be treated the same as other employers. The rationale behind the change comes from the Ministry: “there is no compelling evidence to suggest franchisee employers are more likely to be non-compliant and in need of additional accreditation requirements.” This is a welcome change for franchisee businesses who felt discriminated against since the policy was …

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Major Immigration updates for Accredited Employers

Immigration New Zealand has released important changes that affect Accredited Employers and their migrant workers. Quick links to changes Additional declarations and compliance checks Franchisee accreditation Changes to job checks Changes to AEWV This article discusses changes for employers. Click here for a summary of changes for work visa holders. WATCH OUR ADVISERS DETAIL THE CHANGES IN THIS WEBINAR VIEW ON YOUTUBE What changes for Accredited Employers? There are now more requirements at the accreditation stage and during the accreditation period …

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Major Immigration updates on Green list and AEWV policy

This April 2024, Immigration New Zealand is releasing major changes to various visa categories and pathways. Most are effective immediately. Quick links to changes Green list changes Transport Sector Agreements phased out Changes to AEWV requirements and duration English requirements for AEWV Changes to Variations of Conditions/AEWV This article discusses changes for work visa holders. Click here for a summary of changes for New Zealand employers. WATCH OUR ADVISERS DETAIL THE CHANGES IN THIS WEBINAR VIEW ON YOUTUBE What are …

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Secondary School Teachers now eligible under Straight to residence pathway

What is the Straight to Residency pathway? Migrant workers whose role features on the Green List category can seek residence immediately upon securing a job offer (Tier 1, Straight To Residence) or after working for 2 years in New Zealand (Tier 2, Work to Residence)). This list is reviewed on a regular basis and the latest update benefits Secondary School teachers. More on Green list pathways What is the change for teachers? Secondary school teachers will transition from the Green …

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Permanent Resident visa – process now online

What is a Permanent Resident visa A New Zealand Permanent Resident visa is valid for life. It allows you to travel in and out of New Zealand unrestricted, is not subject to travel conditions, and does not expire. In most cases, people first hold a Resident visa for 2 years, before they are able to remove their travel conditions and obtain Permanent Residency. Who is eligible for Permanent Residency You are eligible if you have held a resident visa for …

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2024 Opening dates for capped working holiday visa schemes

Capped Working Holiday visa schemes New Zealand has bilateral agreements with a number of countries to allow young travellers to come and experience New Zealand while working. Most of these schemes allow for a 12 months visa but a handful allow for a longer stay (up to 3 years). What you can do on a Working Holiday Visa In most cases you may travel around New Zealand and work for up to 12 months, and study for up to 6 …

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Christmas in New Zealand

Merry Christmas and a happy New Year! Christmas in summer can be an unusual phenomenon to get used to. However, Christmas at the warmest time of year brings us some awesome traditions you cannot get anywhere else at the world. Check out our team’s top picks for a summer Christmas: Summer at the beach It goes without saying that the best place to spend Christmas is at the beach. Nothing beats a picnic lunch, sand and some beach games to …

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Christmas Closing Dates 2023-2024

Merry Christmas and a happy New Year! New Zealand Shores offices will be closed from Friday 22nd December and will reopen on Monday 8th January 2024.Only urgent emails and visa approvals will be addressed over the break, via [email protected]. Immigration New Zealand branches will generally close from 24 December and reopen on 3rd January. We wish you all a safe holiday!