People in New Zealand on a Special Ukraine Visa will be able to apply for the residency pathway if the principal applicant was granted the visa and travelled to New Zealand before 15 March 2024.

The Special Ukraine Visa was initially established to be open for Expressions of Interest for 12 months from 15 March 2022 as part of the Government’s response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. It was later extended by a further 12 months to 15 March 2024.

The temporary visa allows Ukrainians with close relatives who are New Zealand citizens or residents to come to New Zealand to shelter here for 2 years.

The Ukraine Residence Visa pathway is designed to support people who have since settled here.

Requirements for residency:

• Special Ukraine Visa holders who apply for residency will only be required to provide a Limited Medical Certificate. Normal character checks and identity requirements will apply.
• An NZD $1200 residency visa application fee will apply to those who apply through the Special Ukraine Residency pathway, however, applicants will not be charged the Immigration Levy.
• To maximise accessibility applicants do not need to sit English language tests or have access to suitable funds. There are no sponsorship requirements for the residence pathway.

Applications are open now.

Ukraine Resident Visa