The Government is reviewing immigration policies for religious workers in light of New Zealand's growing ethnic diversity.

Immigration Minister Jonathan Coleman says it follows a steady stream of feedback from ethnic communities about the difficulties they face in getting religious leaders and workers in to New Zealand long term.

He says as New Zealand becomes more ethnically diverse, it is important communities can have access to the priests, clerics and religious workers they need.

Religious workers make up a small proportion of the county's immigration case load, with about 10 people granted residency each year.

Dr Coleman says many religious leaders are granted only temporary permits.

"We're looking at whether it meets the needs of communities to get these people here for the longer term."

Public submissions close on 16 July.

(Source Radio New Zealand)