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Wairarapa MP Georgina Beyer is reminding local constituents that there are just two weeks left to lodge applications under the Government's Transitional Policy.
The Policy is a last chance for overstayers who have been in New Zealand for more than five years, or who have a New Zealand spouse (or de facto partner) or a New Zealand-born child, to remain legally in New Zealand.
"The Government has made it clear that this policy is a one-off opportunity, and time is running out for applications," Ms Beyer said.
"There are other circumstances under which people may be eligible to apply to remain legally in New Zealand. But unless you apply or contact the Immigration Service you will not know whether you could benefit from the Transitional Policy.
"There are now just a few days left until the deadline, and if you, or someone you know, may be affected, then please do something about it now.
"The last day for applications is Friday, 30 March, 2001."
Ms Beyer also reminded people that arrangements had been made for people who had been unable to file applications because they either did not have their passport, or were waiting for a police clearance from overseas.
"People whose passports are being withheld by someone else such as an immigration consultant or lawyer, should demand that the passport be returned, as it is illegal to do so," Ms Beyer said.
The Immigration Service will now issue, where necessary, a Certificate of Identity, so that people without current passports are not disadvantaged.
In addition, people who have been waiting for police clearances from overseas police departments will be allowed lodge their applications as long as they can provide proof that they have applied for police clearance.
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