Some very important changes to immigration instructions to allow holders of a Work to Residence visa, who have a Residence from Work application in progress, to be granted a subsequent Work to Residence visa in order to maintain their eligibility for residence and to provide some flexibility for South Island Contribution work visa holders.

The changes to immigration instructions allow, in cases where a residence from work visa has been lodged:

• a subsequent Work to Residence visa to be granted where the applicant is aged over the 55 year age limit
• a subsequent Work to Residence (Accredited Employer) visa to be granted where the applicant’s employer is no longer accredited
• South Island Contribution work visa holders to vary the industry or region specified on their visa to another industry or region in the south island.

These instructions are effective on and after 28 September 2020.