Mumbai immigration commences work

The recently opened Immigration New Zealand branch office in Mumbai has commenced operations, with the first lot of applications for various types of visas under consideration.

Head of Immigration Nigel Bickle said the establishment of the Branch testified the importance that New Zealand attaches to India and the growing bilateral relations between the two countries.

He said an additional branch was required to ease the pressure on the Branch functioning in New Delhi.

“The Mumbai branch is a part of the offices of the Consulate General, inaugurated by Immigration Minister Dr Jonathan Coleman on March 17. It operates as a processing centre rather than a ‘shop front’, though it is able to see people for appointments,” Mr Bickle said.

The Mumbai branch has a complement of 15 staff, including two officials on deputation from New Zealand.

“The staff strength will increase to 30 when 15 more immigration officers are appointed in July. India is a key market in all areas of immigration and is set to increase in the coming years,” Mr Bickle said.