11 June 2021
Visa extensions and visa conditions
The Government has announced extensions to Working Holiday visas and Supplementary Seasonal Employment (SSE) visas, and changes to Essential Skills visas, which may affect some of your employees.
Working holiday visas
Working holiday visas that are expiring between 21 June 2021 and 31 December 2021 are being extended for a further six months.
Visa holders must be in New Zealand on 14 June 2021 to qualify.
The conditions of extended Working Holiday visas remain varied to allow holders to work as part of a Working Holiday Scheme in any employment except permanent employment.
Immigration New Zealand will contact visa holders by 25 June 2021 confirming their extension.
Working Holiday visa holders can use the confirmation email from Immigration New Zealand as proof of their right to work when engaging with prospective employers.
If you do not hear from Immigration New Zealand by 25 June and believe you are eligible for an extension you can request an extension check.
Supplementary Seasonal Employer (SSE) work visas
Supplementary Seasonal Employer (SSE) work visas expiring between 30 June 2021 and 31 December 2021 are being extended for six months.
Visa holders must be in New Zealand on 14 June 2021 to qualify.
From 14 June 2021 SSE visa holders will have open work rights allowing them to work in any sector.
Immigration New Zealand will contact visa holders by 25 June 2021 confirming their extension.
If you do not hear from Immigration New Zealand by 25 June and believe you are eligible for an extension you can request an extension check.
Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) visa
If you are a Pacific RSE worker who came to New Zealand through the border exception you can apply for a new visa and will be able to stay beyond the normal maximum period.
Source: NZ Immigration – June 2021