Govt to Adjust Visa Costs to Create Sustainable Immigration System

Stanford expressed confidence that, with further modernization of immigration systems in the future, running costs will decrease and efficiencies will improve.

Immigration Minister Erica Stanford has announced significant changes to New Zealand's immigration system, aimed at creating a more sustainable and self-funding model.

Starting from October 1, new visa charges will be implemented across nearly all visa categories, projected to generate over $563 million for the Crown over the next four years. These adjustments mark a shift from a taxpayer-subsidized system to one where the costs are borne by those benefiting from immigration services.

"The current system has relied heavily on taxpayer subsidies," said Stanford. "The changes we're introducing will ensure that the immigration system becomes self-funding and more efficient."

The new charges will cover various aspects of visa processing, including the costs associated with assessing and managing high-risk applications, addressing migrant exploitation, handling increased asylum claims, and upgrading Immigration New Zealand's ICT systems.

However, the Government has committed to continuing subsidized visa fees for applicants from Pacific countries as part of its ongoing support for the region.

Stanford expressed confidence that, with further modernization of immigration systems in the future, running costs will decrease and efficiencies will improve. She assured that the new charges will remain competitive compared to those in countries like Australia and the United Kingdom, helping New Zealand maintain its appeal as a destination for living, working, studying, and visiting.

"This move is part of our broader effort to restore fiscal discipline and rebuild the economy," Stanford concluded.