New Zealand Tightens Visa Regulations for Foreign Workers and Families

New Zealand has implemented changes to its visa regulations, impacting specific groups of foreign workers and their families. These adjustments, designed to streamline the visa application process and align with the country’s economic goals, have introduced restrictions on sponsoring partners and dependents for certain work visa holders. The changes impact those with Accredited Employer Work Visas (AEWV) at ANZSCO skill levels 4 and 5, restricting their ability to sponsor partners and dependent children for work, visitor, or student visas in New Zealand.

Japan and New Zealand Agree on Intelligence Sharing Amid Regional Security Concerns

Japan and New Zealand have reached a basic agreement on intelligence sharing, driven by concerns over growing security challenges in the region, particularly the strengthening ties between North Korea and Russia. The agreement aims to enhance cooperation in addressing issues like China’s assertive actions in the South China Sea and North Korea’s support for Russia’s war in Ukraine.

New Zealand Considers Significant Hike in Tourism Levy to $100

New Zealand’s government is considering a substantial increase in its International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL), potentially tripling the current $35 fee to $100 for international visitors. The proposed hike aims to address rising costs associated with tourism, support sustainable tourism, and align with similar tariffs in other destinations. The IVL has been in place since 2019, requiring most foreign visitors to pay $35 upon entering New Zealand to fund projects benefiting tourism and conservation. The government is seeking public feedback on the proposed increase, which could significantly impact travel decisions for budget-conscious travelers. However, the government argues that the additional revenue is crucial for maintaining and improving New Zealand’s tourism infrastructure and conservation efforts.

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