New Zealand will fully reopen its border by the end of July, three months earlier than originally planned.

Visitors applying from Pacific Island Forum countries (excluding Australia) will now be able to apply for visas from 16 May.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern confirmed this on 11 May.

In a statement [2], Immigration New Zealand said that the Government announced this new faster timeline for reopening the border and reconnecting New Zealand with the world.

Visitors applying from Pacific Island Forum countries (excluding Australia) will now be able to apply for visas from 16 May, as entry to New Zealand from the Pacific is a Government priority. 

From 4 July all work visa categories will be open for applications, including the Accredited Employer Work Visa, and from 31 July all student and visitor visa categories will reopen.

The maritime border will also reopen on 31 July.

In addition, most Work to Residence visa holders who were onshore on 9 May and whose visas are expiring on or before 31 December have had their visa extended by six months.

Meanwhile, two-year open work visas have been granted to Essential Skills, Post-Study Work and Partners of New Zealand work visa holders who were also onshore on 9 May and whose visas are expiring on or before 31 December.

The New Zealand Government also announced changes designed to make it easier to attract and hire high-skilled migrants, while supporting some sectors to continue their shift away from relying on lower-skilled migrant workers, among others.

Tongan border restrictions

Meanwhile, Tonga's border remains closed and Government has not yet confirmed a time for its reopening.