11. MICHAEL WOODHOUSE (National) Link to this
to the Minister of Immigration
What major changes in immigration legislation are being implemented on 29 November this year?
Hon Dr JONATHAN COLEMAN (Minister of Immigration) Link to this
The Immigration Act 2009 comes into effect on Monday, 29 November. The new Act significantly modernises New Zealand’s immigration laws, and provides us with a robust framework for the future. It will help us improve the efficiency of immigration services and so help encourage the visitors, students, skilled workers, and new residents that New Zealand needs in order to grow our economy.
Hon Dr JONATHAN COLEMAN Link to this
The key aspects of the new Act include the ability to utilise biometrics, a new refugee and protection system, a strengthened framework for sponsorship, and a universal visa system. It is vital we have immigration legislation that allows us to protect the security of New Zealand’s borders and the integrity of our immigration system. At the same time we must manage immigration in a fair and balanced way. This Act allows us to do all of these things.
Michael Woodhouse Link to this
How is Immigration New Zealand assisting employers to meet their requirements under the Immigration Act 2009?
Hon Dr JONATHAN COLEMAN Link to this
To assist employers, Immigration New Zealand has developed an online tool, VisaView, that allows employers to check whether employees are entitled to work in New Zealand for that employer. VisaView is a free online service and will help employers meet their immigration obligations without having to grapple with red tape and overly bureaucratic measures. VisaView has been operating since August and already 920 employers have registered. Feedback from employers has been very positive.