Monday, July 7, 2025
Against the backdrop of increased animosity between Israel and Iran, there has been increased offshore visa applications received by Immigration New Zealand (INZ) by Israelis, Iranians, and Palestinians. There have been almost 300 offshore visa applications received between June 1, 2025, and the latest war which kicked off when Israel struck Iranian nuclear installations using an airstrike on June 13. This has occasioned tremendous unease for several families in search of safety, refuge, or clearance to join loved ones.
The ongoing crisis has led to an increase in visa applications as individuals and families affected by the conflict look to New Zealand for a possible escape or temporary stay. Marcelle Foley, Acting Director of Visas at Immigration New Zealand, stated that the agency is keenly aware of the challenges the current situation poses for many applicants and emphasized that the government has sympathy for those facing such stressful circumstances.
Visa Application Breakdown: Iranian Nationals Lead the Surge
As of early July, Immigration New Zealand has processed a total of 277 visa applications from nationals of Israel, Palestine, and Iran. The majority of these applications have come from Iranian nationals, with a total of 230 applications submitted. Of these, 93 applications have been approved, and seven have been declined. The remaining applications are either still under assessment or have been withdrawn by the applicants.
Israeli nationals have also shown significant interest in relocating or temporarily visiting New Zealand, with 41 visa applications received since June 1. Of those, 24 applications have been approved, one has been declined, and the rest are still being processed. Similarly, six visa applications from Palestinian nationals have been submitted, with two approvals thus far, and the remainder of the applications are still under review.
Understanding the Need for Compassionate Measures
This surge in applications is directly linked to the violent conflict between Israel and Iran, which has caused turmoil in the region. The situation has created uncertainty for thousands of families, many of whom are separated by the conflict. Marcelle Foley expressed that Immigration New Zealand recognizes the difficult position that applicants find themselves in and said, “We understand the difficult situation this crisis is causing for many and have great sympathy for those separated from their loved ones during this stressful time.”
The New Zealand government has always demonstrated a commitment to offering support to people facing global crises, and the recent rise in visa applications highlights the urgency with which those affected by the ongoing conflict are seeking refuge or the ability to reunite with family members in a safe environment.
The Role of New Zealand’s Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA)
In addition to the regular visa applications, New Zealand’s Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) system has also been a key part of the country’s immigration process. Since October 7, 2023, New Zealand has granted 8634 NZeTA approvals for Israeli nationals, as Israel is one of the countries whose citizens do not require a traditional visa to enter New Zealand for short stays. Instead, Israeli citizens can obtain an NZeTA for travel, which is a simpler and more streamlined process.
Immigration New Zealand’s Process and Future Expectations
For those applying for regular visas, the process involves several steps, including verification of documents, background checks, and security assessments. The rise in applications has naturally resulted in an increased workload for Immigration New Zealand, which is working diligently to assess applications and expedite approvals where possible.
However, the agency also highlighted that the approval rate for applicants from affected regions may fluctuate, depending on the results of security and background checks. The increased scrutiny is necessary to ensure that the individuals seeking entry into New Zealand meet the country’s immigration requirements while also ensuring that humanitarian considerations are taken into account.
Moving Forward: Supporting Families and Regional Stability
As the conflict between Israel and Iran continues to unfold, New Zealand remains a beacon of stability and safety for those affected. While visa applications continue to be processed, New Zealand’s approach focuses not only on security but also on offering support to those in need, reflecting the country’s compassionate immigration policies.
With the ongoing conflict, it is expected that Immigration New Zealand will continue to receive visa applications from these regions, and the agency remains committed to providing timely and considerate responses to individuals seeking to reunite with loved ones or escape difficult circumstances. As the crisis continues, the demand for such visas is likely to increase, and the government will need to balance between ensuring national security and addressing the humanitarian needs of those seeking refuge.
The Human Impact of Visa Decisions
For many applicants, these visas represent more than just permission to travel; they offer a lifeline to safety and a chance to reunite with family members who have been displaced or affected by violence. As Immigration New Zealand continues to process applications, the agency is mindful of the emotional and personal significance these visas hold for families impacted by the conflict.
In the end, the reaction by humankind to the rise in visa applications shows the greater will by New Zealand to offer refuge for the distressed but ensuring that the process itself be transparent, impartial, and secure. The rise in visa applications by Iranian, Palestinian, and Israeli nationals will serve as proof of the challenges in today’s world and the role that countries like New Zealand play in offering succor during turbulent times. Decisions made today will not simply decide the future for each one of them but will cement the reputation for New Zealand as a destination of receptivity for people in search of refuge during turbulent times in the world.
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