Immigration New Zealand
News & Updates
The latest policy changes and announcements from Immigration New Zealand, summarised in plain language. Always refer to immigration.govt.nz for authoritative requirements.
New Visa Application Centre Opening in Tonga
Immigration New Zealand is opening a new Visa Application Centre in Nuku'alofa, Tonga, launching 14 September 2026, giving residents an in-person option to submit paper visa applications, including Recognised Seasonal Employer visas, without travelling to New Zealand.
- ✓The Visa Application Centre (VAC), managed by VFS Global, opens in Nuku'alofa on 14 September 2026.
- ✓It is located at the General Post Office, Ground Floor, Salote and Taufa'ahau Road.
- ✓From 14 September 2026, all Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) visa applications must be submitted at this VAC.
- ✓Immigration New Zealand staff will support applicants during the centre's initial weeks of operation.
- ✓A general VAC fee of TOP 86 applies, with a reduced TOP 43 fee for RSE applications, in addition to standard visa fees.
- ✓The VAC provides administrative support only and cannot offer immigration advice or influence visa decisions.
Active Investor Plus improvements provide greater certainty for investors
Immigration New Zealand has announced changes to the Active Investor Plus visa aimed at giving investors greater certainty around fund sourcing, gifted funds, managed fund agreements, and secondary applicants.
2026 changes to the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa
Immigration New Zealand has published changes taking effect from 24 August 2026 for the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa, including new pathways, updated points rules, and revised wage threshold settings.
Changes to the Parent Resident Visa Category
From 5 October 2026, the Parent Resident Visa category moves to a hybrid selection model with most EOIs selected in date order while the 2,500 annual visa cap remains unchanged.
Overview of parent visas and application numbers
Immigration New Zealand has published updated figures for parent visa pathways, showing continued demand for Parent Resident Visa places and the way the parent visa process continues to operate. Families should be aware of the current options and limits before applying.
Improvements to the Pathway Student Visa
The Government is making new changes to the Pathway Student Visa (PSV) to give international students more flexibility in their study plans, including options for secondary school students, study pathways at lower levels, and more time for English language studies.
Business Investor Work Visa updates to unlock wider investment opportunities
New changes to the Business Investor Work Visa will expand how and where business people can invest, making it easier to engage with New Zealand businesses.
Update on English language testing for immigration applications
From midnight 12 July 2026 NZST, all parts of the Occupational English Test (OET) must be taken in person at a supervised test centre. Online at-home testing will no longer be accepted for immigration applications.
Final details about changes to the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa and work to residence visas
Immigration New Zealand has announced final details on changes to the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) taking effect on 24 August 2026, including wage threshold clarifications, updated qualification requirements, and aligned Work to Residence visa settings.
Visitor visa fees temporarily reduced for Pacific nationals
From 1 June 2026, eligible Pacific nationals applying for a visitor visa outside New Zealand will pay reduced fees for 12 months, lowering the total cost to NZD $161 from NZD $216.
New and updated post-study work visa options
A new Short-term Graduate Work Visa (from 16 November 2026) and extended Post Study Work Visa eligibility for graduate diplomas at NZQCF Level 7, aligning graduate pathways with New Zealand's skills needs.
Active Investor Plus change enables philanthropy in Growth category
From 1 June 2026, Growth category Active Investor Plus Visa applicants can include philanthropy as part of their investment, capped at 20% and subject to safeguards to keep the focus on economic growth.
English Language Requirements Extended to AEWV Skill Level 3 Roles
From 1 June 2026, Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) applicants in ANZSCO or National Occupation List (NOL) skill level 3 occupations must meet minimum English language requirements, with targeted transitional exemptions for current AEWV holders.
Income Thresholds to Increase for Pacific and Parent Visa Categories
From 30 April 2026, income and sponsorship thresholds will increase for the Pacific Access Category, Samoan Quota, Parent Category Resident Visa, and Parent Boost Visitor Visa as part of routine annual reviews.
Open Work Visa Employment Conditions Changing from 20 April 2026
From 20 April 2026, INZ is introducing two clearer employment conditions for open work visa holders to better define what work is permitted, helping migrants understand their rights and responsibilities.
Family of Temporary Visa Holders Moving to Immigration Online from June 2026
From 1 June 2026, applications for family members of temporary visa holders will move to INZ's enhanced Immigration Online system. Applicants lodging around this date should be aware of the transition.
2026 Samoan Quota and Pacific Access Category Registrations Now Open
Registrations are now open for the 2026 Samoan Quota and Pacific Access Category (PAC). These annual ballots provide a pathway to New Zealand residence for eligible citizens of Samoa, Tonga, Kiribati, and Tuvalu.
47 New Occupations Added to National Occupation List & Median Wage Rises to $35/hr
Immigration New Zealand has expanded the National Occupation List (NOL) with 47 new occupations at skill levels 1–3, including newly reclassified chef roles. The immigration median wage has also increased to NZD $35.00 per hour.
Major Skilled Migrant Category Changes Coming August 2026
INZ has announced significant changes to the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) taking effect in late August 2026, including two new residence pathways, updated points settings, and simplified wage requirements.
2026 Working Holiday Scheme Opening Dates Confirmed
Immigration New Zealand has confirmed the 2026 opening dates for all capped Working Holiday Schemes. Places are limited and fill quickly — applicants should prepare documents in advance.
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