“The New Zealand government is committed to improving the immigration funding system to ensure it is efficient, self-funding, and sustainable,” said Libby Gerard, manager immigration (border and funding) policy at the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment.

“It’s appropriate that those using and benefiting from the immigration system cover the costs of running it,” she told The PIE.

“MBIE has provided initial advice on potential options for increasing fees and levies so that those using immigration services more fully meet the costs.”

Gerard said that MBIE is undertaking “targeted consultation on proposed fee and levy rates”, and will report back with final options for Cabinet to consider later this year.

“This work supports the New Zealand government’s priority to deliver effective and fiscally sustainable public services,” she added.

Any decision on changes to the immigration funding model will be a decision for the Cabinet, “and no final decisions have been made”.

MBIE is the government ministry in New Zealand that looks after immigration – both for policy and also Immigration New Zealand, the operational agency that processes visas.

Earlier this month, it was reported that 30 jobs within MBIE were at risk of being disestablished, following on from 111 staff members taking voluntary redundancy.

Devina Sivagurunathan, executive director of MABECS, the education agency that helps students from Malaysia on their journeys to New Zealand, among other study destinations, spoke to The PIE about the impact potential hike in fees for international students could have on the country’s attractiveness.

High visa fees in New Zealand compared to similar destinations may deter Malaysian students

“High visa fees in New Zealand compared to similar destinations may deter Malaysian students, particularly due to the weak Malaysian Ringgit,” said Sivagurunathan.

“This financial strain, compounded by limited funding for visa-related costs, affects prospective students’ decision-making,” she continued.

“Policymakers and educational institutions must address these concerns to maintain New Zealand’s status as a premier study destination. Despite challenges, opportunities such as the post-study visa and robust support for international students exist, showcasing New Zealand’s potential.

“Improving visa affordability can sustain its appeal, attracting talented individuals from Malaysia and beyond, thereby enriching the country’s academic and cultural landscape.”

The news comes after Australian stakeholders expressed concerns that its own government could be set to hike visa fees for international students in its May budget.

Numerous reports suggest that Canberra will raise international student visa fees from the current $710 next month, but the Department of Home Affairs could not detail if authorities had plans to hike fees, The PIE reported.