Last Updated on February 23, 2023
Key Points
- Adjustments in pre-departure testing requirements
- Changes to Managed Isolation and Quarantine (MIQ)
- Vaccination requirements updated for border workers and health care workers
Overview
The government of New Zealand will adjust COVID-19 measures and change its re-opening plans. The following changes will take place beginning in 2022:
Pre-Departure Testing Requirements
- Pre-departure test requirements will be shortened from 72 hours to 48 hours prior to departure to New Zealand;
Changes in Managed Isolation and Quarantine (MIQ)
- The stay period for those in MIQ will be increased from seven days to 10 days with all 10 days spent in a MIQ facility for all travelers regardless of vaccination status;
- Non-MIQ travel will be delayed until the end of Feb. 2022
Booster Shot Requirements
- All border and eligible health care workers will be required to have a COVID-19 booster shot by the end of Jan. 2022;
- All other workers under the vaccination mandate will be required to have a COVID-19 booster shot by 1 Mar. 2022;
Risk Level Assessments
- All countries are being removed from the Very High-Risk country list;
- Will initiate more strict internal restrictions if the omicron variant becomes more prevalent
What are the Changes?
The government of New Zealand has announced a number of changes in order to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 and the omicron variant. These changes impact MIQ and the vaccination requirements for workers under the vaccination mandate.
Looking Ahead
Content in this publication is for informational purposes only and not intended as legal advice, nor should it be relied on as such. For additional information on the issues discussed, consult an attorney at one of the two U.S. Law Firms working with the Envoy Platform or another qualified professional. On non-U.S. immigration issues, consult an Envoy global immigration service provider or another qualified representative.
