2014-Feb 07: Official Co-Production - WS6

Visa Pak 147: Information for staff on what is considered to be an Official Co-Production - instructions WS6

Visa Paks

7 Feb 2014

Official Co-Production - WS6 Performing Artists, Entertainers and Entertainment Industry workers

Applications under WS6 Performing Artists, Entertainers and Entertainment Industry workers require employers to obtain agreement from the relevant New Zealand Performers’ union or professional association unless the applicant’s engagement in New Zealand:

  • is 14 days or less; or
  • will be undertaken on an official co-production; or
  • is with a company that holds entertainment industry accreditation (see WS6.15)

Note: In the case of ‘Single Purpose Vehicle’ production companies applying for accreditation, the length of the involvement of the parent company in New Zealand will be taken into consideration.
    f. Entertainment Industry Accreditation Application (INZ 1197)

Operations Support has been asked to clarify what an official co-production is and what evidence is required to verify that the production is an official co-production.

Definition of an Official Co-Production

Official co-productions are film and television projects made in accordance with treaties or other formal agreements between New Zealand and other countries. Further clarification, treaties and the assessment criteria can be found on the New Zealand film website: www.nzfilm.co.nz/international-productions/co-productions.

Evidence required

The New Zealand Film Commission issues a provisional co-production certificate as evidence of an official co-production; the producer should have a copy of the certificate also.  This certificate is required as evidence of an official co-production.

Please note not all co-productions meet the criteria of an official co-production. Only official co-productions fall under instructions WS6.5. Immigration Officers will need to sight agreement from the relevant union or professional body in cases where the co-production is not an official co-production.

Please note the definition of an official co-production and the evidence required to verify an official co-production.