Community Refugee Sponsorship Information Session
Interested in becoming an approved Community Sponsor group?
Join HOST International Aotearoa New Zealand (HOST), in collaboration with Immigration New Zealand (INZ), for an online information session to learn about New Zealand's permanent Community Refugee Sponsorship (CORS) programme and how your organisation or community group can get involved.
Date: Tuesday, 4 August 2026
Time: 7.30pm – 8.30pm
Online via Microsoft Teams
On
Registration is essential
Register here: CORS Permanent Programme Information Session #3 Registration – Fill out form
During this session, we will cover:
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An overview of the permanent Community Refugee Sponsorship programme.
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Eligibility requirements for sponsor organisations.
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The application process and what is involved in becoming an Approved Community Organisation.
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The support and coaching available throughout the programme.
Who should attend?
This session is designed for organisations, community groups, businesses, and other community organisations interested in sponsoring a refugee or refugee whānau to settle in their local community in Aotearoa New Zealand.
It is also suitable for any organisation who would like to learn more about New Zealand's permanent Community Refugee Sponsorship programme.
Please note: This information session focuses on the sponsorship programme and application process for prospective sponsor organisations.
It is not intended for refugees seeking resettlement through the programme.
Communities have the power to create welcoming places where refugees can belong and thrive.
Discover how your organisation can be part of the Community Refugee Sponsorship journey.
The Community Refugee Sponsorship (CORS) programme is now a permanent complementary pathway within New Zealand's Refugee Quota Programme.
Applications are now open for eligible community organisations wishing to become approved sponsors and for eligible refugees seeking sponsorship. The programme will be introduced gradually, with 50 places for sponsored refugees available in 2026/27 and 200 places available annually thereafter.
As the permanent programme continues to roll out, this website will be regularly updated with the latest information on:
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Sponsor eligibility and requirements
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The application process
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The responsibilities of Approved Sponsors
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Training, resources, and ongoing support throughout the sponsorship journey
For detailed information about becoming an Approved Sponsor, read further below.
Please also visit Immigration New Zealand's Applying to be an approved community organisation sponsor page: Becoming an approved community organisation sponsor :: Immigration New Zealand
As an Approved Sponsor, your organisation must show they have the skills and knowledge to support vulnerable people, that you embrace diversity and are open to other religions and cultures. If that sounds like you, you're in the right place - keep reading!
We are excited that you are considering sponsoring a refugee in your local community.
We hope that you will find the information you need to make an informed decision.
