New Zealand Eases Visa Rules to Combat Labour Shortages- New Opportunities for Indian Migrants

Reduced Work Experience and Flexible Salary Requirements

A key change is the reduction of the required work experience for migrants from three years to two. This adjustment aims to broaden the pool of eligible candidates, allowing competent workers to secure employment more readily while still meeting the necessary skill standards. This move is particularly significant for Indian professionals looking to leverage their expertise in New Zealand's growing economy.

Furthermore, the government has removed the median wage criteria for the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) and Specific Purpose Work Visa (SPWV). While employers are still obligated to offer market-rate salaries, the elimination of a fixed salary threshold provides greater flexibility in hiring decisions. This change acknowledges the diverse wage structures across various sectors and regions, allowing employers to attract talent based on specific skills and experience.

Visa Specifics:

• Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV):
  • Median wage requirement removed.
  • Minimum income threshold for bringing dependent children remains at NZ$55,844 annually.
  • Visa duration extended to three years for ANZSCO skill levels 4 and 5.
• Specific Purpose Work Visa (SPWV):
  • Median wage requirement removed.
• Seasonal Worker Visas:
  • Three-year multi-entry visa for experienced seasonal workers.
  • Seven-month single-entry visa for lower-skilled seasonal workers.
• Post Study Work Visa (PSWV):
  • Allows students to stay and work for up to three years, depending on qualifications.
  • Eligibility maintained for students completing a Master's degree after a Postgraduate Diploma.

Support for Seasonal Workers and Family Reunification

The updated regulations also address the needs of seasonal workers, a crucial component of New Zealand's agricultural and horticultural industries. Two new pathways have been introduced:

• a three-year multi-entry visa for experienced seasonal workers and
• a seven-month single-entry visa for lower-skilled workers.

These options aim to ensure a stable workforce during peak seasons, addressing the sector's unique labour demands.

For Indian migrants planning to bring their families, the minimum income threshold for AEWV holders bringing dependent children remains at NZ$55,844 annually. While unchanged since 2019, this requirement ensures that migrant families can maintain a reasonable standard of living in New Zealand.

Extended Visa Durations and Streamlined Hiring

The government has also extended the visa duration for jobs classified under ANZSCO skill levels 4 and 5 from two to three years. Existing visa holders who meet the criteria can apply for a one-year extension. This extension provides greater job security and stability for workers in these roles, many of whom are essential to New Zealand's economy.

In a move to expedite the hiring process, employers are no longer required to adhere to Work and Income's 21-day mandated recruitment period for skill level 4 and 5 positions. Instead, they must demonstrate a genuine effort to hire locally by advertising and interviewing qualified candidates. This change allows employers to fill vacancies more quickly, addressing immediate labour needs.

Easing Construction Labour Shortages and Simplifying Employer Obligations

Acknowledging the acute labour shortages in the construction sector, the government has significantly reduced the domestic workforce criterion from 35% to 15% for certain roles. This adjustment makes it easier for construction companies to fill critical positions, supporting the sector's growth and development.

To further streamline the process, accredited employers will no longer be required to complete online training modules from Employment New Zealand. Instead, Immigration New Zealand will provide readily accessible resources on employment rights and responsibilities, simplifying compliance for employers.

Future Changes and Benefits for International Students

Looking ahead, from April 2025, migrants transitioning from student visas or other work visas to the AEWV will be granted interim work rights. This will provide a seamless transition for individuals seeking to continue their careers in New Zealand.

For Indian students pursuing higher education, the modification of the Post Study Work Visa (PSWV) is a welcome development. Students can now stay and work in New Zealand for up to three years, depending on their qualifications. The new rules also ensure that students completing a Master's degree following a Postgraduate Diploma retain their eligibility for the PSWV, enhancing their post-graduation opportunities.

These comprehensive changes reflect New Zealand's commitment to attracting and retaining skilled migrants, providing new opportunities for Indian professionals and students to contribute to the country's vibrant economy. The simplified visa process and relaxed criteria are expected to foster a more efficient and responsive immigration system, meeting the evolving needs of both employers and migrants.

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To know more and apply for visa in your destined country in 2025, you may get in touch with Visas Avenue migration expert at Toll-Free No. 78-18-000-777 or you can drop us an e-mail at info@visasavenue.com.

- Rajneesh Kumar