Immigration New Zealand released a significant update regarding the Special Ukraine Resident Visa on March 11, 2024. This update outlines the opening of the Ukraine Resident Visa in March 2024, providing an opportunity for permanent residency in New Zealand to holders of the 2022 Special Ukraine Visa and their families. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the critical details:
Ukraine Resident Visa was introduced on March 15, 2022, to support Ukrainians with family ties in New Zealand.
- Ukraine Resident Visa Details:
- Opens: March 16, 2024
- Duration: Open for two years
- Application Deadline: March 16, 2026
- Eligibility Criteria:
- Principal applicants must have arrived in New Zealand on a 2022 Special Ukraine Visa before March 15, 2024.
- Spouses and children (depended) can be included in the Visa application.
- Standard character and identity requirements must be met.
- Submission of a Limited Medical Certificate and chest X-ray certificate is required.
- The English language test is optional.
- Key Features & Updates:
- New applicants ‘ expressions of interest (EOIs) close on March 15, 2024.
- Initially, a 2-year temporary visa will allow work or study.
- Changes in early 2023 extended the EOI deadline to March 15, 2024, and increased the travel window to New Zealand to 12 months.
- As of January 29, 2024, approximately 1,674 Special Ukraine Visas have been granted.
- Residence Pathway for Special Ukraine Visa Holders:
- Established in August 2023 for Special Ukraine Visa holders arriving before March 15, 2024.
- Applicants are exempt from English language tests and need suitable funds.
- There are no sponsorship requirements.
- A $1,200 residency visa application fee is applicable, exempt from the Immigration Levy.
- Applicants must be in New Zealand by March 15, 2024. No new EOIs will be accepted after this date.
- Further application details are to be provided.
- Access to Services:
- Unique Ukraine temporary visa holders retain access to publicly funded healthcare.
- Children are eligible for domestic student status in schools, while adults can access free English-language classes.
- A free one-off health assessment is available through – Health New Zealand- the Ministry of Health and Te Whatu Ora.
Stay informed for further updates on the application process and residency requirements. If you need more information, contact ICL Immigration customer service.
Reference
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ICL Immigration, based in Auckland, is an established licensed immigration adviser with over 20 years of experience and a remarkable 97% approval rate. We’ve helped over 1,000 immigrants realise their New Zealand settlement dreams.
We specialise in various visa services, including student, residency, work visas and business-related services like employer accreditation. We ensure personalised solutions for individuals and businesses aiming to navigate New Zealand’s immigration landscape successfully.
