COVID-19 ministerial powers extended to 2023

Immigration (COVID-19 Response) Amendment Act powers extended to May 2023

In 2020, the Government fast-tracked legislation to respond appropriately and efficiently to immigration issues arising from the COVID-19 outbreak. This legislation provided additional powers to the Minister of Immigration for 12 months. These temporary COVID-19 immigration powers have now been extended to 2023.

The 2021 Immigration (COVID-19 Response) Amendment Act has a few differences to the 2020 Immigration (COVID-19 response) Amendment Act.

• The powers are in place until 15 May 2023.
• Offshore temporary visa applications can be suspended for six months, up from three months currently. Renewing less frequently costs less and provides more certainty.
• This bill progressed through Select Committee.

This extension will provide continued flexibility to support migrants and industries, and help to manage border restrictions.

More information on the official website of New Zealand Government