Community Sponsored Refugee Resident Visa (CORS)

To qualify for this visa, eligibility is split between the individual refugee and the organization supporting them.

Refugee Applicant Requirements

• UNHCR Recognition: You must be officially mandated as a refugee by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).
• Age: The principal applicant must be between 18 and 45 years old.
• English Language: You must have a basic working knowledge of English.
• Work Readiness: You must have at least three years of work experience or a qualification that demonstrates a high potential for employment in New Zealand.
• Location: You must be residing in a country where New Zealand authorities can safely conduct interviews and health assessments.
• Health and Character: You must meet standard New Zealand health, security, and character requirements.

Sponsor Requirements

• Approved Status: Only "Approved Community Organizations" (legal entities) can sponsor. Individual citizens cannot sponsor refugees under this category independently.
• Financial Commitment: Sponsors must prove they have the funds to support the refugee family for their first two years in New Zealand, covering housing, living expenses, and airfare.
• Settlement Plan: The organization must provide a detailed plan for how they will assist with housing, job placement, and social integration.