Great news for local residents in Samoa who want to move to New Zealand! The number of places available for registration and permanent residence in New Zealand under the annual Samoa Quota has gone up by 550. Before, there were 1,100 places available each year, but now there are 1,650 spots for Samoan residents.
How to Register:
If you’re a local resident from Samoa and need an immigration visa to enter New Zealand, there’s a new rule in place. Now, you must apply for the visa online. This change came into effect during the Samoa Quota Draw in 2023, and you can register until August 31st, 2023. Link: https://www.immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas/visas/visa/samoan-quota-scheme-resident-visa
Why the Quota Increased?
The increase in registration is meant to make up for the unused places during 2020 and 2021 when the Samoa Quota was suspended due to COVID-19. These unused places will now be reallocated between 2022 and 2025. So, there will be 550 extra spots available every year, making the total annual allocation 1,650 during this period.
Benefits of Online Registration
Since October 2022, the registration process has been moved online. This change happened after the borders opened following the COVID-19 pandemic. The new online system allows for more efficient processing of applications and provides flexibility across the INZ Network. The decision to go online came after successful consultations between Immigration New Zealand (INZ) and Pacific Governments through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT). Stakeholders were comfortable with this change.
Important Dates to Remember
If you want to be part of the Ballot Draw to randomly select successful applications, mark your calendar for October 6th, 2023. After the draw, Letters will be sent to successful applicants from October 16th to 20th. Those who receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) must apply for New Zealand residency within eight months of receiving it.
More Information Available
For more details about the Samoan Quota and the application process, you can find information in both English and Samoan languages. This is a great opportunity for Samoan residents to explore permanent settlement options in New Zealand.
