Last Updated on February 23, 2023
Key Points
- On Sept. 1, 2021 Immigration New Zealand (INZ) announced cessation of consular operations in Beijing
- This change took effect Aug. 31, 2021
- INZ’s Risk and Verification team will remain in Beijing for urgent matters
Overview
The INZ statement says:
“Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has withdrawn visa processing from our Beijing office on 31 August 2021. Alongside closures at Mumbai, Manila and Pretoria offices in March this year, this is a continuation of INZ’s adaptation to the impact of COVID-19. INZ is taking this opportunity to reduce costs, introduce advanced technology to improve efficiency, manage offshore risk more effectively and move visa processing activities onshore. Our Risk and Verification team in Beijing will remain and grow as visa volumes rebound.”
Looking Ahead
These changes reflect continued monitoring of COVID-19, its variants, and all associated risks. Employers with talent transferring between New Zealand and Beijing (or vice versa) should consider all updated closure details. They may need to adjust arrangements for these employees.
______________________________________________________________________________________________________
Content in this publication is for informational purposes only and not intended as legal advice, nor should it be relied on as such. Envoy is not a law firm, and does not provide legal advice. If you would like guidance on how this information may impact your particular situation and you are a client of one of the U.S. Law Firms, consult your attorney. If you are not a client of a U.S. Law Firm working with Envoy, consult another qualified professional. This website does not create an attorney-client relationship with either U.S. Law Firm.