Background
As a result of COVID-19, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has suspended the processing of most offshore visa applications. Despite this, individuals have still been able to submit visa applications through the INZ online portal to secure a place in the queue, for when offshore processing resumes.
Update
Visa applications temporarily suspended
INZ will no longer be accepting applications from outside of New Zealand, unless an individual has been granted one of the limited exceptions to the border closure. This suspension will be in place until 10 November 2020.
Several application types will not be impacted by this update. These include:
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Relationship-based visas for dependants of NZ citizens or residents;
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Visas for diplomats, consular and official staff, and their dependent family members;
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Antarctic work and traveller visitor visas; and
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Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) limited visas.
Our advice
Those wanting to submit visa applications while outside New Zealand, but who do not meet the requirements for a border exemption, will need to wait until 10 November 2020 before submitting their application.
Applicants can use this time to ensure that their application is ready to be submitted to INZ for assessment on 10 November 2020, to avoid further delays. We would be happy to advise applicants who are unsure of the time frames for submission, or who just need someone to walk them through the application process.
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.