As expected, we’ve just received an update from Immigration New Zealand (INZ) regarding changes to visa charges.
Taking effect from October 1st 2024 most visa charges will increase. The good news is that these changes will reduce the taxpayer contribution to the immigration system by $563 million over four years.
The not-so-great news is that this will affect your businesses and most of your migrant staff at a time when businesses are having to better manage costs.
If you are considering extending visas for your workforce we highly recommend you start today to lodge your application by Monday September 30th, as the cost of an AEWV will more than double on October 1st.
Our team are prepared for a significant volume of visa applications so please contact us immediately so we can plan how your visas can be lodged before the cut off date.
Below is a snapshot of the charges that will mostly affect businesses.
- A full list of the changes can be found here: https://www.immigration.govt.nz/documents/media/immigration-fee-and-levy-table-rates-from-1-october-2024.pdf
- There will be no increases for Recognised Seasonal Employer, Pacific Access Category, and Samoan Quota visas, in recognition of New Zealand’s ongoing commitment to supporting its Pacific neighbours.
- The Refugee Quota and programmes related to New Zealand’s international and humanitarian obligations will continue to be funded by the government
In the meantime please feel free to contact us to discuss how this may impact your business.
We can help you ensure that your staff are retained for as long as possible before these changes take effect.
