New Zealand introduces "Recovery Visa" after cyclone devastation

In response to Cyclone Gabrielle and other climatic disturbances in the North Island, the Government has introduced a new visa program designed for specialist migrant workers needed to aid recovery efforts. This initiative will help strengthen New Zealand's ability to rebuild from the latest catastrophic events.

The Recovery Visa (a Specific Purpose Work Visa), will allow employers to sponsor migrants to come to New Zealand for a specific event or purpose, including working on an emergency response.

Details about the visa:
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• The goal is to process applications for this visa within a week or quicker.
• The initial visa will last up to 6 months.
• The $700 fee will be refunded for successful applicants.
• The same response pathways have been utilized for the Christchurch and Kaikoura earthquakes, and insurance assessors have already begun applying for specific purpose work visas after the initial Auckland flooding event.

How to apply:

Step 1 - Employer finds migrant worker/s that meet the requirements to assist with the recovery
Step 2 - Employer downloads and completes the Recovery Visa – Employer Supplementary form and provides this to the migrant worker
Step 3 – Migrant worker completes a Specific Purpose Work visa application, uploads/attaches the Recovery Visa – Employer Supplementary Form and specifies length of stay in New Zealand as 6 months or less
Step 4 - Immigration New Zealand (INZ) processes application and provides applicant with a decision

Employers who seek to hire migrant workers for extended periods are advised to utilize the current Accredited Employer Work Visa. Amendments to this visa are being evaluated to expedite the processing of designated positions that will aid in the restoration and reconstruction efforts. These positions will be exempt from the labor market tests.

Migrants who are already in New Zealand and need to switch locations or roles can now do so without worrying about their visa status, as long as they remain employed by the same company. This permission is granted for a period of up to two months.

Source: INZ website

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