Introduction
Despite sharing strong historical and cultural ties, Fijians do not enjoy the same level of free movement as citizens of some other Pacific nations into New Zealand. This article aims to clarify the current visa regulations and opportunities for Fijians to reside in New Zealand.
Free Association and Other Pacific Nations
Unlike Rarotonga and Niue, Fiji is not in a free association relationship with New Zealand. This means that Fijian citizens do not have the automatic right to live in New Zealand, unlike their counterparts in these and other Pacific island nations.
To understand the current situation, it is important to note that the arrangements between New Zealand and certain Pacific nations are governed by the principles of free association. The Cook Islands, Tokelau, Niue, and Rarotonga (which is part of Cook Islands) all enjoy full freedom of movement and work rights in New Zealand. This contrasts with Fijian citizens, who must meet specific criteria to gain residency.
Special Pacific Access Visa Lottery
For Fijians seeking to immigrate to New Zealand, there exists a special opportunity through the Pacific Access Visa lottery program. This annual lottery offers a limited number of residency visas to Pacific Islanders, including Fijians, who meet the eligibility criteria.
Lottery Eligibility Requirements
Eligible applicants must be 45 years old or younger on the date the lottery is held.
A job offer in New Zealand that is sufficient to support the applicant and their family is required.
The applicant's defined family members can be included in the application process.
There is no cost involved in applying for the lottery.
This program serves as a unique avenue for Fijians to migrate to New Zealand, but it is highly competitive. The number of visas offered annually is limited, with no more than 250 Fijian applicants being selected each year.
Alternative Visa Routes
While the Pacific Access Visa lottery is a specific opportunity, Fijians also have the option to apply for New Zealand residency through standard immigration visa routes. These routes include:
Skilled Immigration Visa
Investor Visa
Entrepreneur Visa
These pathways offer more flexibility and detail in terms of requirements, but they may also come with higher costs and longer processing times.
Current Visa Suspension and Future Outlook
Due to the ongoing impact of the global pandemic, the general outlook for immigration to New Zealand is currently suspended. The current situation has led to visa processing being halted, with the general expectation that these procedures will resume in mid-2022.
Given the fluid nature of immigration policies, it is crucial for Fijians interested in living in New Zealand to stay informed about any updates and changes to the visa application process.
Conclusion
The pathway for Fijians to immigrate to New Zealand remains challenging but not entirely impossible. The Pacific Access Visa lottery and other standard immigration routes offer avenues of opportunity, with a renewed optimism for the future as travel restrictions ease and visa processing resumes.