13 Dec 2011

Overhaul of visa IT system

10:11 am on 13 December 2011

Immigration New Zealand is overhauling its information technology system to speed the processing of visa applications.

The Government is investing $75 million in a new system that will allow visa applicants to do more online and enable all data to be accessed by immigration offices worldwide

Immigration Minister Jonathan Coleman says the existing system is reaching the end of its technological lifespan. It is more than 15 years old.

He says a fast and modern service is critical in attracting skilled migrants who can help grow the economy.

The new IT system will be operational early next year.