19 February 2021 at 3:33 pm
Government announcement allows longer stays for visitor visa holders in NZ
The Government has announced an automatic extension to most onshore visitor visas that expire before 31 March 2021 by two months. It has also temporarily suspended the limit for visitor visa holders, allowing them to stay beyond the previous cap of nine months in an 18-month period
What does this announcement mean for international students currently in New Zealand?
- This announcement is unlikely to have any impact on international students currently in New Zealand, as most students are likely holding student visas.
- Visitor visa holders who have not yet studied, may wish to consider undertaking a short course at an approved education provider.
- Visitor visa holders can study short course/s (or a term at school) of up to three months per 12 month period. The extension of visitor visas does not extend how long visitor visa holders may study for.
- Family members of students currently studying in New Zealand may benefit from the visitor visa extension if they remain in New Zealand due to COVID-19 restrictions, or otherwise choose to stay longer. Under the announcement they will also be able to apply for further visitor visas as the limit of time spent in New Zealand as a visitor has been temporarily suspended.
Immigration New Zealand will email affected visa holders to confirm the visa extension by 5 March 2021.
Where to go for more information:
- If you would like to know more, visit Immigration New Zealand for Information on visa extensions, new visa expiry dates, and changes to visa conditions
- Or see Minister Faafoi’s full press release
