Willie Penrose (Longford-Westmeath, Labour)
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Question 292: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs the visa requirements for entry into New Zealand; if in particular he will outline the position whereby somebody has been in New Zealand for approximately four years, and overstayed their visa by approximately 12 months but on direction left the country voluntarily; the position in relation to such a person's application for a new visa to visit New Zealand; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21055/08]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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Requirements for entry into New Zealand are the responsibility of the New Zealand authorities. In this regard, I would suggest that in the specific overstay case raised in the Deputy's question, the person concerned should seek clarification directly from the Embassy of New Zealand, 80 The Haymarket, London SW1Y4TQ, www.nzembassy.com/uk . (New Zealand does not have a resident Embassy in Ireland).

In general, Irish passport holders can enter New Zealand without a visa for a visit of up to three months. New Zealand Immigration may, however, require visitors to produce evidence of intention to return or of onward travel arrangements, and also evidence of sufficient funds to maintain themselves while in New Zealand. Persons seeking to enter New Zealand for the purpose of employment or under the working holiday scheme (which allows an Irish person aged between 18 and 30 years to work and travel in the country for up to two years), require special permits and should apply to the Embassy of New Zealand in London.