New Zealand issues 4,000 visas to relatives of citizens of Ukrainian descent

Sydney (Australia), March 15 (EFE) .- In response to the humanitarian crisis, the New Zealand government announced on Tuesday that it will issue two-year visas to about 4,000 relatives of New Zealand residents and Ukrainian citizens. Derived from Russia’s occupation of Ukraine.

Under the measure, which is effective from today and is valid for twelve months, temporary visa holders will be able to work in the maritime country, send their children to school and enjoy other social benefits, the government statement said.

Temporary visas are expected to benefit parents, grandparents, siblings, adult children or immediate relatives of about 1,600 Ukrainians who have become permanent residents or residents of New Zealand.

“This is the largest special visa type that has been in place for decades (in New Zealand) in support of an international humanitarian effort,” New Zealand Immigration Minister Chris Fafoe said in a statement.

New Zealand has previously granted visa extensions to Ukrainians whose visas expire by the end of this year and has allowed New Zealand visa holders to enter the country without having to wait until the border is reopened.

The New Zealand government has announced $ 4 million (US $ 2.7 million or 2.5 2.5 million) in humanitarian aid to Ukraine, displacing two million people since the Russian invasion last month .EFE

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