WG6.10 General process (16/10/2006)

1. Unlike other applications for work visas and permits, applications for overseas crew members of FCFVs are initiated on the crew's behalf by the FCP or their agent.
2. The NZCP requests approval in principle from Immigration New Zealand (INZ) to recruit a stated number of overseas crew members for a FCFV(s) for a specified period.
3. INZ considers the request and a decision is made by the Minister of Immigration or his delegate whether to give an Approval in Principle, and, if so, for how many crew members.
4. The FCP or their agent then provides INZ with individual visa or permit applications for as many overseas crew members as specified by the Approval in Principle.
5. INZ then considers each individual visa or permit application in the context of the Approval in Principle.
6. Immigration New Zealand issues or declines individual visas or permits.

WG6.10.1 General rules for applicants

Crew of chartered foreign fishing vessels applying for work visas and permits must meet lodgement, bona fide applicant and health and character requirements as set out at W2.10.1.

Effective 16/10/2006