Governments latest response to COVID–19

By the time you read this the New Zealand government’s new border restrictions have taken effect.

From 1am Monday, 16 March 2020 everyone arriving in New Zealand from anywhere (other than some of the Pacific Islands) must self-isolate for 14 days. This includes NZ citizens and residents.

The Prime Minister’s full statement is available at https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/major-steps-taken-protect-new-zealanders-covid-19

The border is NOT closed (except for people travelling direct from mainland China or Iran or onboard a cruise ship).

If you are currently overseas and we are applying for your visa - keep calm. Visa applications are still being processed and you will still be able to travel to New Zealand. On arrival you will need to self-isolate for 14 days. Make sure you have accommodation arranged that will allow for self isolation.

There is clear guidance from the Ministry of Health how to self-isolate at https://www.health.govt.nz/our-work/diseases-and-conditions/covid-19-novel-coronavirus/covid-19-novel-coronavirus-health-advice-general-public/covid-19-novel-coronavirus-staying-home-self-isolation

If you have family overseas applying for visas, they can still travel to New Zealand but must self-isolate for 14 days post arrival.

We have put together some helpful tips to help get through these unprecedented times. Malcolm Pacific Immigration is on standby to answer any questions; just call us on 0800 800 612

Tips

• Follow official advice from the Ministry of Health – go to https://www.health.govt.nz/our-work/diseases-and-conditions/covid-19-novel-coronavirus
• Visa applications will still be processed but expect delays.
• Anyone currently in New Zealand holding a work, student or visitor visa and wanting to remain longer should apply for a new visa 3 months before the current visa expires.
• Defer any non-essential international travel.
• Before starting a journey to New Zealand make sure you can still board flights and transit through countries along the way. Other governments may have different rules, and these could change quickly (e.g. a country may require self-isolation even when transiting). Airlines are reducing the number of flights globally so capacity to book flights may become tight.
• Don’t travel if you feel unwell. Contact your health professional for advice.
• If you hold a New Zealand visa but have not arrived, you can still travel provided the visa is valid (self-isolation rules still apply). If the “must arrive before” date on your visa is going to expire before you will arrive contact us now for advice.
• Be kind – some people will be stressed by these events.