Policy changes effective 31 March 2008

A brief summary of the key changes follows. Full details are available in Amendment Circular 2008-04 PDF [291KB]. Our website and our Operations Manual have been updated to reflect these changes.

Residence changes

• The minimum income requirement for offers of employment for applicants under the Pacific Access Category and Samoan Quota Scheme has increased from $29,430.96 to $29,897.92.
• Applicants granted residence under the Active Investor Migrant Policy have to pay a migrant levy. Note: this change became effective 20 March 2008.
• Business categories applicants and Skilled Migrant Category applicants who pre-purchase ESOL tuition are entitled to the tuition for up to five years, whether they purchase the tuition in New Zealand or overseas. 
• The requirement for applicants to pre-purchase ESOL tuition prior to being granted a Work to Residence visa or permit have been removed.

Temporary entry changes

• Minor amendments will be made to clarify visitor and work policies for partners of New Zealand citizens or residents.
• Clarification to visitor policy for APEC cardholders.
• Changes to Working Holidays Schemes.
• Changes to transit visa policy effective 28 March 2008.