INZ IMPLEMENTS TIGHTER GUIDELINES FOR VISA APPLICANTS

As we bid farewell to the current year, it's crucial to highlight the significant changes Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has implemented in their assessment approaches across various visa categories. This notable shift encompasses accreditations, job checks, AEWVs, Visitor Visas, student visas, and residencies.

Changes in Visa Category Assessments:

INZ's recent adjustments in assessment styles are creating waves across diverse visa categories. From accreditations and job checks to AEWVs and Visitor Visas, the immigration landscape is witnessing a sharp turn. It's noteworthy that some of these checks, especially for specific roles and industries, are deemed excessive and arguably unnecessary.

Media Reports and Trends:

This transformation in INZ's approach hasn't unfolded in isolation. Media reports from October shed light on this evolving trend, indicating a surge in asylum claims, particularly from India, Malaysia, and China. Reports from stuff.co.nz reveal a substantial increase in claims by nationals from these countries, prompting discussions on potential exploitation of New Zealand's immigration system.

"Rising claim rates from countries such as India (400%), Malaysia (300%), and China (700%) raise INZ staff concerns, prompting closer scrutiny.”

"INZ needs to increase scrutiny on visitor visa applications urgently, says Erica Stanford, National's immigration spokeswoman, in response to the figures."

"According to multiple INZ officers who spoke with Stuff on the condition of anonymity, the rise is perceived not as a genuine increase in claims but as a consequence of New Zealand's system being seen as accommodating, following instructions to speed up visa processing and reduce application scrutiny."

"In December, [Erica] Stanford alerted the Labour government about a leaked document revealing INZ staff being instructed to ease visitor application assessments due to a threefold surge in visa applications surpassing expectations after the border reopening.”

Impact on Specific Groups:

This shift in INZ's assessment methodology has particularly impacted certain groups of individuals.

• People who initially had 6-month multiple entry Visitor visas and now want to study or work are facing some real concerns. This change in their situation makes it necessary to rethink their visa status and requirements, especially when moving toward educational or job opportunities.
• Similarly, those who came on a recovery visa and now want to study are dealing with genuine concerns. Switching from a recovery visa to educational pursuits makes their immigration journey more complicated, requiring careful thought and following the changing rules.
• Additionally, the introduction of job checks for specific roles has added a new aspect to the immigration process. People aiming for certain positions now undergo thorough assessments to make sure these roles meet immigration criteria and positively contribute to New Zealand's workforce.
• Accreditation applications for specific business categories or industries are under closer scrutiny. INZ is carefully examining these applications to ensure businesses seeking accreditation meet required standards and contribute positively to designated sectors. This strict approach shows a commitment to maintaining the integrity of New Zealand's business environment.
• Furthermore, scrutiny extends to Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) applications where registration is mandatory. In cases where it's hard to verify offshore work experience for credibility, additional measures are taken to confirm the authenticity of qualifications and experience presented in the application. This thorough verification process aims to uphold standards and reliability for individuals entering the New Zealand workforce.

As a result of recent modifications to immigration procedures, there has been a noticeable effect with extended application processing times and a significant rise in decline rates. This impact is especially evident in the context of visitor visas, where INZ had initially adopted a more lenient approach. The prolonged processing times and increased decline rates signify a noteworthy departure from the previous, more accommodating stance. Additionally, heightened scrutiny is now applied to individuals who acquired recovery visas through intermediaries motivated by monetary gains, a situation deemed as a potential scam.

It is strongly recommended that individuals belonging to the impacted groups carefully evaluate their options for extended stays in New Zealand, considering the intensified scrutiny imposed by INZ. As the immigration landscape undergoes dynamic shifts, a thorough evaluation of one's circumstances becomes paramount.

Navigating Uncertainty with Expert Advice:

If you find yourself amidst these changes and uncertainties, seeking professional guidance becomes crucial. Derrick Jones Immigration is here to provide honest advice tailored to your unique situation. Understanding your long-term prospects in New Zealand requires careful consideration, and our team is dedicated to assisting you in making informed decisions.

In conclusion, the evolving immigration landscape in New Zealand demands a nuanced understanding of recent changes and their implications. Whether you're navigating job checks, accreditation applications, or visa renewals, staying informed is key. Derrick Jones Immigration stands ready to support you on this journey, ensuring that you are well-prepared for the shifting dynamics of immigration in New Zealand.