5 Countries with Recently Updated Visa Policies: Impact on Indian Nationals

New Zealand’s Visa Policy Update (June 26, 2024)

On June 26, 2024, New Zealand implemented significant changes to its visa regulations, particularly affecting certain foreign workers and their families. These changes are part of New Zealand’s broader strategy to streamline the visa process and align it with the country’s economic and immigration priorities.

Key Changes:

• Accredited Employer Work Visas (AEWV): Holders of AEWV at ANZSCO skill levels 4 and 5, who do not have a residency pathway, can no longer sponsor their partners or dependent children for work, visitor, or student visas.
• Independent Visa Applications: Partners and dependents of AEWV holders can still apply for their own visas if they meet the eligibility criteria.
• Ongoing Applications: Visa applications that were submitted before the changes will be assessed under the old regulations.

Historical Context: New Zealand’s immigration policies have evolved over the years to address labor market needs and demographic changes. The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) was introduced to ensure that employers could hire skilled workers from abroad while maintaining stringent checks to protect local employment opportunities. The recent changes reflect New Zealand’s ongoing efforts to balance economic growth with sustainable immigration practices.

Summary:

• New Zealand revised visa regulations on June 26, 2024.
• AEWV holders at ANZSCO skill levels 4 and 5 without a residency pathway cannot sponsor partners or dependent children.
• Partners and dependents can apply for their own visas if eligible.
• Ongoing visa applications will be assessed under old regulations.
• Changes aim to streamline the visa process and align with economic and immigration priorities.

This information is crucial for students preparing for competitive exams, as it provides insights into current international visa policies and their implications, particularly for Indian nationals.