We are pleased to inform you the recent changes in the CAM (culturally arranged marriage) visas.
These changes made are as follows.
- Evidence of a cultural marriage:
• Substantive evidence must be provided to demonstrate that the marriage follows an identified and recognised cultural tradition.
• Evidence may include:
a) Communication between the parents of the couple, or a person acting as a go-between.
b) other documents indicating public recognition of the arrangement, or ceremony, or both;
c) Confirmation from independent sources that such arrangements or ceremonies, or both, are in accordance with the cultural custom of the parties concerned.
- Application Process:
• CAM visitor visas can be lodged either online or using a paper form.
• For online applications, the form will ask applicants to confirm whether they are applying for a CAM visitor visa.
• The current timeframe to process visitor visa applications is 3-5 months.
• Given current limitations on international travel as a result of COVID-19, successful CAM visa applicants will be granted a six-month ‘first entry before’ date to allow them more time to secure flights and managed isolation or quarantine in New Zealand.
- Requirements
• The marriage must be arranged by someone other than the applicant or their supporting partner and follow an identified cultural tradition.
• The applicant and supporting partner intend that the marriage will be maintained on a long term and exclusive basis.
• The supporting partner is a New Zealand citizen or residence class visa holder and the supporting partner:
• Supports the application
• Is eligible to support a residence class visa under partnership
• Meets character requirements for supporting partners
• There is no legal impediment of the intended marriage.
- Specific Requirements
• Three-months time frame
• Met physically before making the application
• The marriage is arranged
NOTE: Please consult an immigration advisor or a lawyer as criteria may vary between a CAM visa post-marriage and a CAM visa pre-marriage.