- Legislative body and advocacy group activity reported in the Cook Islands.
- Immigration status in the Cook Islands hinges on country laws, and travel between countries impacts this status.
Cook Islands proposes working holiday visas for North America and Europe
What happened
The Cook Islands Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration is developing a proposal for a 12-month pilot working holiday visa set for 2027. This visa would allow young overseas travelers to take up short-term work in the hospitality industry through a simpler process. The Cook Islands Restaurant and Hospitality Association proposed introducing this visa for short-term employees from North America and Europe.
From rnz.co.nz
Why it matters
The tourism and hospitality sector is the main economic driver for the Cook Islands, accounting for 70 percent of the nation's Gross Domestic Product. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration acknowledged that the country's current immigration settings were not well-suited for short-term seasonal work, noting pressure from staff shortages.
Immigration status in the Cook Islands is determined by country laws, and international travel patterns influence this status.
From rnz.co.nz
Who's involved
- Cook IslandsThe country developing the working holiday visa proposal
- North AmericaA continent from which the Cook Islands is seeking travelers
- EuropeA continent from which the Cook Islands is seeking travelers
Keep exploring
The entities involved
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Cook Islands
country in the South Pacific Ocean in free association with New Zealand
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North America
continent in the Americas
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Europe
terrestrial continent located in north-western Eurasia