The New Zealand government introduced a recovery visa NZ under the specific purpose work visa scheme after the devastating cyclone Gabrielle hit New Zealand’s North Island in February 2023. To aid in the recovery process, the government allowed the employers to hire skilled experts who could assist in rebuilding efforts.
This visa permits a stay of up to six months in NZ. At the time of application, a fee of NZ$700 is required, which will be fully refunded upon approval of your application.
The recovery visa is specially designed for capable individuals in various professions who wish to contribute to the country’s recovery after the disaster. It’s a special chance for talented people to help the country and build a thriving career in a beautiful and progressive land of Kiwis.
The application process of the recovery visa usually takes around 6 working days (Monday to Friday) or even less. However, it’s really important to have all the necessary documentation to accelerate the process.
Until August 5, 2023, the government had received 2586 applications for this visa. Among those, 1446 were accepted, and the applicants were granted visas.
According to New Zealand Immigration, migrant workers must be qualified to perform the following tasks to contribute to the North Island’s recovery efforts.
Such employers can still hire labour using other visas like the Accredited Employer NZ Work Visa. But make sure to process the applications faster for the roles that aid in recovery and rebuilding of the NorthShore infrastructure. These roles won’t need to undergo the labour market test.
Employers must confirm that the role they’re offering contributes to the North Island’s recovery from extreme weather events. They need to complete a supplementary form (INZ 1377) called the Recovery Visa Employer Supplementary Form. Migrants should also include this completed form with their application.
Also note that the recovery visa isn’t restricted to roles only in the North Island; industries in the South Island that can offer direct support can also hire migrant workers under the recovery visa category without any accreditation.
To complete the online application form, you’ll need these documents:
Based on the details provided on the New Zealand government’s website, you aren’t required to take an English language proficiency test or show proof of funds for the New Zealand Recovery Visa. However, you should have enough money to support yourself during your time in New Zealand. The specific amount of funds needed may vary according to the time you will stay and your personal situation.
If you are a migrant worker and possess the skills needed for a recovery visa NZ, you can contact us today. As your local immigration consultants, we will assist you in completing the online application and provide guidance on your stay and various aspects of living and working in New Zealand. Our team of experienced consultants Auckland is well-versed in navigating the complexities of the immigration process.
Are people currently able to apply for the recovery visa?
Yes, at present, individuals who meet the criteria can actively apply for the visa to take part in the recovery efforts.
Does the flexibility to change regions or locations apply to the workers coming in and going out of a region to temporarily replace affected staff?
Indeed, the flexibility covers both inbound and outbound movements, as long as the movement is necessary due to the direct impacts of extreme weather events.
Can individuals already present in New Zealand alter their visa to engage in this work?
Not really. The flexibility is exclusively for work visa holders with specific conditions related to their role, region, and employer. It applies when such changes are prompted by circumstances linked to extreme weather events. Otherwise, no changes are being made to instructions regarding this matter, and these instructions cannot modify the visa conditions of existing visa holders.
Is this visa open to onshore applicants, or is it only available for offshore applicants?
Both onshore and offshore individuals are eligible to apply. However, Recognised Seasonal Employer workers are prohibited by the Immigration Act from applying for a different type of visa.
