25 March 2008

A number of policy changes will come into effect on 31 March 2008. A brief summary of the key changes are as follows;

Residence changes 

• The minimum income requirement for offers of employment for applicants under the Pacific Access Category and Samoan Quota Scheme will increase from $29,430.96 to $29,897.92.
• Applicants granted residence under the Active Investor Migrant Policy will have to pay a migrant levy. Note: this change is effective 20 March 2008.  
• Business categories applicants and Skilled Migrant Category applicants who pre-purchase ESOL tuition will be 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 will be 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.