Newsflash

We’re thrilled to have participated as a firm in the Round the Bays 2025 event! It was an amazing experience to come together as a team, proudly sporting our firm shirts while supporting a cause that matters. Not only did we have fun on the day, but we were also able to contribute to important […]

Permanent Residence Permanent residence is usually the next step after you became a resident. Obtaining permanent residence means your travel conditions will become indefinite, you can live and work in New Zealand indefinitely. To be eligible for a permanent resident visa, a person normally must: Demonstrate a commitment to New Zealand by meeting one of

On 17 December 2024 Immigration Minister Hon  Erica Stanford announced some major changes. From 27 January  Accredited employers and Work Visa holders will no longer need to complete the Employment New Zealand online modules. Previously these could be audited when it came to renewing employer accreditation. This will come as welcome news. However there are still

We are frequently asked if clients can work remotely on a temporary visa in New Zealand. This is an increasingly popular option which offers the lifestyle advantages of New Zealand without losing overseas income. However there are some important factors to consider. The basic rule Immigration New Zealand’s definition of “work” is any activity undertaken in New

Entrepreneur Visa: Worth a second look for U.S.and other applicants? The Entrepreneur Visa allows applicants with NZD 100,000 – 500,000 to invest in a profitable business for an eventual pathway to residence. This pathway to residence has been called, the “Cinderella” policy of business instructions. What is shown on the Immigration New Zealand website is

Pacific Legal Investor and business client update December 2024 Our last regular on-line meeting with Immigration New Zealand’s Business Team management for 2024 was on 5 December.  There are challenges particularly with categories that require manual processing. We have strong ongoing relationships with Business Team management. We have been able to see exceptions and workarounds for

Immigration application fees to increase on 1 October 2024 On 9 August 2024, the Government announced that immigration application fees will increase effective 1 October 2024. Fees are approximately doubling for most of the applications. This followed speculation since before the election in 2023 that the incoming National led government might increase fees to 90%

Entrepreneur Visa The entrepreneur category allows self-employment and setting up a business here. It involves very small amounts of capital ($100-150,0000) There are some exceptions e.g. in ICT) but strict adherence to a three-year business plan. Normally a work visa is required for two years before applying for residence. There is a fast track provision

Immigration law is a complex field, with changes happening at a rapid pace. With our  insights and updates, you’ll be well-equipped to understand the intricacies of the law. Out with the old… In July 2022 the Investor Plus 1 and 2  categories  closed to new applicants. We’re continuing to assist clients in the “tail” of

In 2022 and 2023, Richard Small and Pacific Legal were proud to partner with leading civil infrastructure and engineering firm Fulton Hogan, and Pacific community leaders including Melina Maka of the Tongan Advisory Council, to support a recruitment programme for machine operators and drivers from Tonga. Fulton Hogan staff visited Tonga to prequalify candidates in