New round of visa extensions
Current visa holders who were in New Zealand on 9 May and whose visa expires between 9 May and 31 December 2022 (dates inclusive) may be been granted a new open work visa or a 6-months extension on their work to residence visa.
These will be automated and visa holders will be notified from 25 May 2022.
Who qualifies?
Open work visas for...
On 9 May 2022, open work visas are granted to onshore holders of the following work visas expiring between 9 May and 31 December 2022 (inclusive):
- Essential Skills Work Visa
- Post Study Work Visa
- Partner of a New Zealander Work Visa
These new open work visas are valid from 9 May 2022 until two years from the date of expiry of the previous visa. They have open work rights, which means they allow the holder to work for any employer anywhere in New Zealand, and they also allow the holder to leave and re-enter New Zealand.
New visas have also been granted to partners and dependent children of these work visa holders and will also be valid for 2 years with the same conditions as the previous visas.
Work to residence visa extensions
From 9 May 2022, the following visa holders:
- Talent (Accredited Employers)
- Talent (Arts, Culture and Sports)
- Long Term Skill Shortage List
- Skilled Migrant Job Search
- South Island Contribution
will be granted a six months extension on their visas. Their family with them in New Zealand will also benefit from 6-months extensions.
