Changes to Some Interim Visa Conditions

New Zealand has updated the conditions for Interim Visas for those waiting on the outcome of their visa applications. The changes reflect the new partnership-based work visa instructions that were implemented in May 2023.
 
Interim Visas are granted automatically to allow migrants to remain lawfully in New Zealand while they wait for the outcome of their visa application. These visas are intended to be temporary measures only and have varying conditions based on the applicant's current visa status and the visa they are applying for.
 
The updated Interim Visa conditions specifically affect partnership-based work visa holders who have applied for another partnership-based work visa. In this case, an Interim Visa will allow them to work for any employer without restrictions on working for an accredited employer or earning a specific wage. However, for partnership-based work visa holders who have applied for a different work visa type, such as an Accredited Employer Work Visa, their Interim Visa will not permit them to work and will have the same conditions as a Visitor Visa. These changes ensure that Interim Visa conditions are consistent across all partnership-based work visas and other work visas.
 
It is important to note that there are no changes to Interim Visa conditions for those applying for non-work visas, such as visitor or student visas. These changes to the Interim Visa conditions came into effect from 11 August 2023.
 
These updates to the Interim Visa conditions provide clarity for migrants who are awaiting the outcome of their visa applications. By aligning the visa conditions across all partnership-based work visas and other work visas, it makes it easier for individuals and their employers to understand their work rights and obligations.