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Immigration New Zealand backtrack on visa gaffe decision
Immigration New Zealand has been criticised after backtracking on a decision and allowing all visas approved in error last week to stand. A computer glitch meant that the Silver Fern Visas scheme, which issues 300 visas a year, approved 306 additional visas above the quota.
Despite initially saying that the payments would be refunded and visas cancelled for those issued in error, Immigration New Zealand has now done a u-turn, saying all documents will stand. The decision has, however, been criticised as irresponsible by trade unions that fear that there are not enough jobs to go around.
Immigration minister Nathan Guy has asked for a report into the error that occurred last Friday. He believes that the decision to let the visas stand may have been made due to threats about legal challenges and liability.
The scheme allows skilled workers between the ages of 20 and 35 into the country for nine months in order to seek employment. Once they have a job, they can then stay for another two years and seek permanent residency.
Dennis Maga of the First Union said Silver Fern has been irresponsible, as many people already on the scheme are still to find work. He added that many migrant workers and locals are also unemployed.
Despite initially saying that the payments would be refunded and visas cancelled for those issued in error, Immigration New Zealand has now done a u-turn, saying all documents will stand. The decision has, however, been criticised as irresponsible by trade unions that fear that there are not enough jobs to go around.
Immigration minister Nathan Guy has asked for a report into the error that occurred last Friday. He believes that the decision to let the visas stand may have been made due to threats about legal challenges and liability.
The scheme allows skilled workers between the ages of 20 and 35 into the country for nine months in order to seek employment. Once they have a job, they can then stay for another two years and seek permanent residency.
Dennis Maga of the First Union said Silver Fern has been irresponsible, as many people already on the scheme are still to find work. He added that many migrant workers and locals are also unemployed.
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