Background

Automatic six-month extensions were previously granted to employer supported work visa holders, expiring between 10 July 2020 and 31 December 2020. These extensions did not apply to partners or dependent children.

Update

Immigration New Zealand have reconsidered their approach and are now issuing automatic extensions to partners and dependent child visa holders.

The Government will apply the same extension duration to partners and dependent children, where their visas expire between 17 August 2020 and 31 December 2020.

If a partner or dependent child has already made an application for a dependent visa, they can withdraw this application and request a refund.

Our advice

Visa holders or their advisers will receive an email from Immigration New Zealand confirming their visa extension, by 25 August 2020. If your visa expiry falls within this extension time frame, watch out for an email notification.

Importantly, Immigration New Zealand provide an online Visa Verification Service here.

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.