New Zealand decided to keep its border closed for foreigners and non-residents until it feels safe. Once the population of New Zealand gets vaccinated and feels protected, the border will be opened for foreign travelers.
The Prime Minister of New Zealand, Jacinda Ardern addressed a press conference at the post-cabinet media conference at Parliament, in Wellington, New Zealand. Ardern told that the borders of New Zealand would not open again until the people of the country are “vaccinated and protected” – a process which will start in the middle of this year for the general population.
In the announcement, it was said that New Zealand will allow foreigners to enter the country based on one of the two things :
If they feel it is safe only then international students and other people can enter New Zealand. Both possibilities will take some time.
“We can expect our borders to be impacted for much of this year.” Also added, “We will continue to pursue travel bubbles with Australia and the Pacific, but the rest of the world simply poses too great a risk to our health and our economy to take a risk at this stage.”
This means Despite the closure of borders, New Zealand will keep special "tourist bubbles" with Australia and the countries of the Pacific region
Some foreign nationals can re-enter if they have specialized skills that can’t be found locally, or are a family member or spouse of a New Zealand citizen. They can return to New Zealand on the 2 conditions that
The government of New Zealand plans to start a vaccination campaign on large scale against the coronavirus in the second half of 2021. It will give priority to border guards and those most exposed to the coronavirus.
Ardern said that New Zealand will have its house in order so they will be ready to receive. But ultimately it depends on the delivery timelines of the pharmaceutical companies.
So international students who are planning to study in New Zealand this year should keep updating themselves with the news. You can expect to take admission during the September or October intake. Maybe till that time, the situation will be under control.
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Twinkle is an active listener and observer. She has a boundless curiosity to improvise her all-round knowledge. She is always open about her thoughts and her personality is filled with thirst for acquiring knowledge about different fields. Her favourite pastime is to pen down her thoughts and knowledge. Her strength is the simplicity of language yet being artistic.
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Categories: New Zealand
Tags: Study Abroad