Auckland, Aug 28 (IANS) New Zealand plans to issue interim visas to foreigners after their residential permits expire so they can remain in the country while their applications for fresh permits are considered.

Currently, individuals automatically lose their status when their residential or work permits expire.

The new visa is being introduced as part of the New Immigration Act, which comes into effect in November this year, said Immigration Minister Jonathan Coleman.

'In addition, a new sponsorship provision, allowing organisations and government departments to sponsor immigrants under Talent and Visitor policies, better reflects the sponsorship needs of stakeholders such as community and sporting groups,' Coleman said.

Richard Howard, managing director of Pathways to New Zealand, immigration and visa services provider, said it will be a big relief for foreign nationals who are in New Zealand as they can work temporarily after expiration of their current permit while their application for a further permit was being processed.