Immigration New Zealand adapts to operating under Alert Level 3
Border updates
Immigration New Zealand has now received over 5,000 expressions of interest from people who believe they meet exceptions to the border closure. Of that number it has been decided 1,231 meet the criteria and have been invited to apply for a visa.
The New Zealand border currently remains closed to all but New Zealand citizens and residents.
Find out more about traveller exceptions here.
INZ operations under Alert Level 3
While onshore visa offices are not yet open, staff at INZ are working out the details of when and how they will be able to reopen onshore offices.
Some staff are currently working remotely, however INZ’s ability to process visa applications is significantly reduced. We will keep you updated with any further announcements as we receive more information.
All offshore offices remain closed.
Visa processing
INZ continue to process urgent COVID-19 related applications including applications from individuals who have a critical purpose for coming to New Zealand.
On top of COVID-19 related applications, INZ is prioritising the following visa categories:
- Temporary visa applications for Victims of Domestic Violence
- Partnership category temporary visas (including reassessments)
- Full fee paying student visas
- Post study work visas
- Exceptions to border restrictions
These are applications that can be done remotely without unforeseen difficulties and where the applicant’s eligibility is unlikely to have been significantly impacted by COVID-19.
INZ is not currently processing any applications from people who are offshore unless they meet the strict criteria to be granted an exception to the Border closure. INZ is not currently processing any paper applications from people onshore but this will change over the coming weeks as our staff are able to re-enter offices.