Temporary visa applications for applicants based outside New Zealand (including student visa applications) will be suspended for 3 months. INZ advise that they cannot process these as applicants are unlikely to meet entry requirements and will not be able to enter anyway.

The following offshore temporary entry class visa applications are not affected and can still be lodged:

• relationship-based visas for partners and dependent children of New Zealand citizens and residents (not for holders of other visas)
• visas for diplomatic, consular and official staff and accompanying dependants
• Antarctic Traveller Visitor visas and Antarctic Work visas
• Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) Limited visas.

These policy settings reflect New Zealand’s international obligations and special relationship with the Pacific.

Applications and expressions of interest for residence class visas remain open.