Radio New Zealand - Te Reo Irirangi o Aotearoa

Policy of sending pregnant foreigners home under review

Updated at 8:36 am on 3 October 2011

The Government is reviewing a policy that means foreign students have to leave the country if they become pregnant.

Under a policy change in 2008, pregnant foreigners are deemed to be a potential drain on health services and have not been been issued or re-issued visas.

International students must renew their visas annually.

Immigration Minister Jonathan Coleman says the policy is outdated.

The Union of Students' Associations says students are required to have medical insurance so any births cost the Government nothing.

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