(2008-05-09) Charlotte Norman
The New Zealand Government has announced new laws in order to make it easier for immigrants to obtain a visa and ensure that when doing so they receive the best possible service.
The laws which will provide tighter and more stringent rules for immigration advisors are set to be enforced by the recently established Immigration Advisors Authority (IAA). The law hopes to ensure that all New Zealand visa applicants are safely protected from either fraudulent or corrupt advisers.
The new act will ensure that all Immigration Advisors are licensed, both in New Zealand and offshore. Initial plans aim for the IAA to take charge of complaints and the issuing of enforcements for unlicensed agents. In addition they also plan to keep a publicly available register of licensed advisors.
In recent years the issue of immigration advisory has been upon an open playing field with anybody being able to potentially call themselves an immigration adviser. However, after May 2009 for New Zealand based advisors and 2010 for offshore, those which do not have a registered license will face up to seven years in prison or fines of up to NZ$100,000 (£39,490).
With its diverse natural scenery and wealth of opportunities, New Zealand has been growing in recent years as an idealistic destination for people to visit and settle.
In addition to this the news of New Zealand actively seeking skilled migrants to work in the country has been seen by many as a great reason for migrating to the beautiful land. The new laws will help provide such travellers peace of mind and security whilst planning their stay.
Global Visas provides a New Zealand immigration service for the many people immigrating to New Zealand each year
Through Global Visas network of partner organisations, they also offer assistance with Currency Exchange and Planning, Business Planning, Flight Quotes, Flight Search and Holiday Bookings.