ACT proposes abolishing permanent resident visas if elected

Tuesday 1 September 2026 · 3 outlets · 4 reports · updated Tue 1 Sep, 9:19am

In this story ACT Party

The ACT Party has announced an election policy to scrap the Permanent Resident Visa category. If elected, the party intends to introduce physical presence requirements to ensure visa holders maintain a genuine connection to New Zealand. The proposal aims to distinguish permanent residence more clearly from citizenship.

How they headlined it

First reported by NZ Herald, Tue 1 Sep, 5:00am · 4 reports from 3 outlets over 4 hours

NZ HeraldTue 1 Sep, 5:00am

Act proposes scrapping New Zealand’s permanent resident visa (opens in new tab)
StuffTue 1 Sep, 5:00am

ACT proposes overhaul to Permanent Resident Visas (opens in new tab)
- ACT to introduce physical presence requirements for permanent residents if elected (opens in new tab) Tue 1 Sep, 8:59am
1NewsTue 1 Sep, 9:19am

ACT proposes time in NZ requirement for permanent residents (opens in new tab)