March 31 2008 – NZ Immigration publishes Policy Changes to be effective immediately

A number of policy changes come into effect on 31 March 2008. A brief summary of the key changes follows. Full details are available in Amendment Circular 2008-04 PDF [291KB]. Our website and our Operations Manual have been updated to reflect these changes.

Residence changes

• The minimum income requirement for offers of employment for applicants under the Pacific Access Category and Samoan Quota Scheme has increased from $29,430.96 to $29,897.92.

• Applicants granted residence under the Active Investor Migrant Policy have to pay a migrant levy. Note: this change became effective 20 March 2008.

• Business categories applicants and Skilled Migrant Category applicants who pre-purchase ESOL tuition are entitled to the tuition for up to five years, whether they purchase the tuition in New Zealand or overseas.

• The requirement for applicants to pre-purchase ESOL tuition prior to being granted a Work to Residence visa or permit have been removed.

Temporary entry changes

• Minor amendments will be made to clarify visitor and work policies for partners of New Zealand citizens or residents.

• Clarification to visitor policy for APEC cardholders.

• Changes to Working Holidays Schemes.

• Changes to transit visa policy effective 28 March 2008.

Source from Immigration New Zealand

Contact Ambler Collins should you have further enquiries on immigration to the UK, NZ, Australia or the USA visa, we will undertake a complimentary assessment of your eligibility. Email us at; info@amblercollins.com