NZ changes rules for Manx visitors

Friday, 18 August 2017 18:05

Disappointment for would-be backpackers

Immigration bosses in New Zealand have announced certain visas will no longer be available to Manx residents.

British backpackers have previously been allowed to obtain a 23 month 'working holiday' permit, enabling them to take up temporary employment while they stay in the country.

But the authorities there now say their interpretation of what constitutes the 'UK' has changed to exclude crown dependencies - leaving Isle of Man passport holders in the lurch.

Manx nationals who are 'ordinarily resident' in the UK will remain eligible.

Otherwise, holiday visas will now only be available for up to six months, without employment.