Policy Area: Immigration

Statement of General Direction:

The goal is to have an immigration policy that reflects New Zealand's needs in terms of skills, and ability of the community to absorb in relation to infrastructure, and recognising the diversity of the current New Zealand population. Such a policy will take into account the capacity of this nation to meet the general economic and social needs of New Zealanders.

Key Initiatives of Policy:

To maintain current immigration flows as per the last quarter of 1996 until the Population Conference has been held in May 1997.

Introduce a strict four year probationary period.

Introduce a limited overstayer amnesty following agreement upon appropriate definition and objectives of the amnesty.

Health screening of overseas visitors.

Population Conference/strategy.

Clamp down on refugee scams.

Increased resources to policing immigration policies.

Fiscal Implications of this Policy Agreement:

None significant but revenue to New Zealand Immigration Service would be reduced. Could be greater bureaucratic costs.

(All funding proposals subject to being considered within the agreed spending policy parameters.)

Legislative Implications of this Policy Agreement:

Likely to require amendment to the Immigration Act and Health Act.