People present during the March 15 Christchurch terror attacks, as well as their immediate families, are now able to apply for a special permanent resident visa offered by the New Zealand government.
As of today, anyone who was present at either the Masjid Al Noor or Linwood mosques during the attack can apply. They must also have been living in New Zealand on March 15.
The New Zealand government said it was considering options in the days after the attack. Fifty people were killed and more were injured when a 28-year-old Australian man opened fire in two mosques during Friday prayers on March 15.
Shortly after the attack, New Zealand’s former Immigration Minister called for victims to receive guaranteed residency.
New Zealand Immigration will use police lists to confirm people present during the attack. Those who were visiting as tourists or only for a short time cannot apply for the visa.
Those wishing to apply for the visa must apply before April 24, 2021.
You can read more about the special visa here.
