Key Points
- On September 1, 2021, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) announced the cessation of consular operations in Beijing
- This change is effective immediately, August 31, 2021
- INZ’s Risk and Verification team will remain in Beijing for urgent matters
Overview
The INZ Statement follows suit:
“Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has withdrawn visa processing from our Beijing office on 31 August 2021.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.
