Archived update: The Ukraine Resident Visa category permanently closed to new applications on 16 March 2026. This page is retained as a dated record.
This is a dated record of a past INZ update. Confirm the current position before making plans.
Immigration New Zealand announced that the time-limited Ukraine Resident Visa category permanently closed to new applications on 16 March 2026. Principal applicants were required to have arrived in New Zealand on or before 15 March 2024 holding a Special Ukraine Visa.
What this means in practice
While the category was open, eligible Special Ukraine Visa holders could transition to permanent residence with partners and dependent children. Applications required verified identity, character checks, and medical or chest X-ray certifications without requiring an English language test. Temporary Special Ukraine Visa renewals remained available while residence applications were processed. Because the deadline has passed, new applications under this humanitarian pathway can no longer be submitted.
Who should check this
This archived notice is relevant for individuals reviewing past humanitarian visa milestones or tracking historical New Zealand residence policies. Current temporary visa holders seeking alternative pathways must review active resident or temporary categories rather than relying on this closed process.
Practical checklist
- Verify past submission status: Confirm whether a residence application was lodged prior to the 16 March 2026 deadline.
- Maintain temporary status: Ensure lawful status is maintained through active temporary visas while legacy decisions are pending.
- Explore active pathways: Review current skilled, family, or investor residence categories if permanent settlement remains your goal.
Important limits or current position
The Ukraine Resident Visa was a targeted pathway established to support individuals displaced by conflict. With the category permanently closed, applicants who missed the deadline cannot apply under these provisions. This article is general information, not individual immigration advice.
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Source note: Based on the official Immigration New Zealand announcement published on 13 January 2026 [1]. Article status: Archived update.
[1] Immigration New Zealand. (2026, January 13). Ukraine Resident Visa category closing in March 2026. Open source on immigration.govt.nz ↗