Auckland (Kanwalpreet Kaur)
Offshore stuck post-study work visa holders say they suffer from emotional, mental, and financial stress. Many have lost their visas; therefore, they are uncertain about their future. Its been twenty months that they have been waiting to hear from the New Zealand government. Recently, there was an announcement on borders opening but still unclear for many, and there is no update on the visa extensions.
These post-study work visa holders initially came to New Zealand on a student visa and invested tens of thousands of dollars in their education. It was unfortunate for those on overseas trips when the New Zealand government announced the closure of the border.
"My wife had a post-study work visa, and I was on an open work visa. We planned a short trip to India to see our family. But our holidays turn into a nightmare. Initially, we thought that the New Zealand government would make an announcement for them and allow them to return to New Zealand, but nothing happened. When the government allowed the essential work visa holders to return to NZ, we also hoped to go back. Sadly, there is no update to date. I have used all my savings, and I am unsure about the future. I can't even imagine the circumstances if the NZ government does not allow us back because it is stressful and emotional. My wife and I took a loan for her studies in New Zealand. We decided to go to NZ for a better future. I did not expect this from the NZ government." said Gurjeet Singh
A post-study work visa is indeed their right. And this is the main attraction for international students in New Zealand. In the 'Study in New Zealand' section, New Zealand Immigration (Government) openly advertises these work-right benefits. Just imagine, these "offshore temporary visa holders" have been waiting for twenty months, hoping that maybe an update will come for them. Nevertheless, there is no answer. How difficult must it have been to pass each day?
Gurjeet is in touch with many offshore stuck temporary visa holders and talks to them regularly. He gets stressed with other people's stories as well. Their situation is hard to explain. Gurjeet told us, "Stress level is so high among the offshore stuck families. Some have not returned even a single dollar of their education loan, and banks send letters to them. Some have not even used one month of their post-study work visa. Many went to India in medical emergencies because their parents are suffering from diseases like heart and cancer. New Zealand was their only source of income. Overall all the offshore stuck temporary visa holders are experiencing huge stress along with their families."
They are in the dark. New Zealand Government has not given any clarity to them. While speaking to NZ Punjabi News, Gurjeet Singh said if unity can win the farmers, why not us. Their call is to the migrant community for a united voice for their support.
Kanwalpreet Kaur