Government announces visa changes for temporary workers in New Zealand:

If you are holding a valid Employer-assisted temporary work visa which is expiring between 1 January 2021 and 30 June 2021 (inclusive), and you are currently in New Zealand, your visa may be automatically extended by another 6 months. This applies to the following visas:

• Essential Skills Visa
• Work to Residence Visa
• Special and Skilled work visas for China, Indonesia, South Korea, Philippines and Vietnam
• Special category work visas for Japanese Interpreters and Thai Chefs
• Employer-specific work visas granted under section 61 of the Immigration Act 2009
• Fishing Crew Visa
• Religious Worker Visa
• Silver Fern Practical Experience Visa

Visas held by their partners and dependent children will also be extended for 6 months.

Visa holders will receive confirmation of the extension from Immigration New Zealand by March 2021 once the visa records are updated in Immigration system.