IMPACT – MEDIUM

The government of New Zealand has announced that it will accelerate is reopening plan and will lift all border measures by July 2022.

Key Points:

  • Beginning May 17, individuals from Pacific Island Forum countries, except Australia, will be allowed to apply for visas through this website.
  • Beginning July 4, the New Zealand government will open all work visa categories to new applications, including the Accredited Employer Work Visa.
  • Beginning July 31, students and visitor visa categories will reopen to all travelers. More information for students intending to travel to New Zealand is available here.

Additional Information: Several changes have been announced including the introduction of new residence pathways that use a “Green List” and an extension on most Work-to-Residence visa holders who were in New Zealand on May 9 and whose visas expire before Dec. 31 have received an automatic six-month extension. More information regarding the border reopening and visa extensions is available here.

BAL Analysis: While the border reopening signals that traveling to New Zealand will be easier in the coming months, entry restrictions and health protocols can change with little or no notice. The response to the COVID-19 pandemic continues to develop, and BAL will provide additional updates as information becomes available.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice Group. For additional information, please contact berryapplemanleiden@bal.com.

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