NZ employer COVID-19 information
How COVID-19 affects you as an employer of migrants in New Zealand.
Temporary border measures
All affected foreign travellers must have boarded their flight to New Zealand by 23:59 on Thursday 19 March 2020.
Exceptions to the border closure can be made by Immigration New Zealand for exceptional circumstances, including:
- health and other essential workers
- citizens of Samoa and Tonga for essential travel to New Zealand
- visitor, student or work visa holders who normally live in New Zealand, and who are the partner or dependent of a temporary work or student visa holder who is currently in New Zealand
- humanitarian reasons.
People who are outside New Zealand who think they may be eligible for an exception can make a request to Immigration New Zealand.
Border closures and exceptions
Anyone arriving in New Zealand must isolate themselves for 14 days upon arrival.
The starting point for any consideration is that for the protection of New Zealand the border is closed. Exceptions are only in place for extreme circumstances.
COVID-19 countries and areas of concern | Ministry of Health
COVID-19 symptoms | Ministry of Health
New self-isolation health measures for COVID-19
Health Officers are screening all travellers arriving in New Zealand. Travellers deemed high risk will be assessed.
Self-isolation rules and any other government health measures must be followed.
All travellers to New Zealand must isolate themselves for 14 days.
Self-isolation guidance | Ministry of Health
New visa conditions: Visa holders who do not comply with instructions from a Health Officer can be detained and deported.
COVID-19 Economic Response Package
The Government has announced the most significant peace-time economic plan in modern New Zealand history to support people and businesses as we weather the impact of COVID-19.
COVID-19 Economic Response Package | New Zealand Government
We are evaluating migrant employer issues associated with the current Covid-19 outbreak and appreciate feedback from affected sectors.
Your patience is appreciated while cabinet, Immigration New Zealand and other government agencies coordinate to manage this unprecedented situation.
Recognised Seasonal Employers (RSE) COVID-19 information