New Zealand’s updated visa rules, including reduced work experience requirements and new visa pathways, aim to meet labor demands and benefit Indian migrants seeking opportunities in the country.
New Zealand Changes Visa Rules to Meet Labor Demands: Impact on Indian Migrants
New Zealand has introduced significant changes to its immigration and visa policies to address ongoing labour shortages. The updated rules aim to simplify the process for migrants, including Indian workers, to find employment in the country. By lowering the work experience requirements and offering new visa pathways, New Zealand is making it easier for skilled workers to contribute to the country’s economy.
Key Visa Updates and Benefits for Indian Migrants
One of the most notable changes in the New Zealand immigration policy is the reduction in the work experience requirement for migrants. Previously, migrants needed at least three years of work experience to qualify for certain work visas. This has now been reduced to just two years, making it easier for competent workers to find job opportunities in New Zealand. This change is expected to greatly benefit Indian migrants who are seeking better employment prospects in the country.
New Seasonal Worker Pathways
To meet the seasonal labor demands, New Zealand has introduced two new visa pathways for seasonal workers. These include a three-year multi-entry visa for experienced workers and a seven-month single-entry visa for lower-skilled workers. This flexibility aims to accommodate the fluctuating demand for seasonal labor while ensuring that employers can meet their workforce needs.
Removal of Median Pay Criteria for Certain Visas
The New Zealand government has also removed the median pay criteria for the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) and Specific Purpose Work Visa (SPWV). Employers are still required to offer salaries in line with market rates for the role and location, but they are no longer bound by a predetermined salary threshold. This change provides employers with more flexibility, while ensuring that workers are fairly compensated for their skills and experience.
New Family Support Rules for Migrants
For Indian migrants planning to bring their families to New Zealand, AEWV holders must now earn a minimum of NZ$55,844 annually to support their children. This requirement, which has remained unchanged since 2019, ensures that migrant families can sustain themselves financially while living in New Zealand.
Changes for Low-Skilled Jobs and Construction Industry
New Zealand has also extended the duration of visas for lower-skilled jobs classified under the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO) skill levels 4 or 5. These roles now have a three-year visa period, and current employees can apply for a one-year extension if they meet the requirements.
Additionally, to address labor shortages in the construction industry, the government has reduced the domestic workforce requirement for certain roles from 35 per cent to 15 per cent. This makes it easier for companies in the sector to fill vacancies with skilled migrant workers.
Streamlined Processes for Accredited Employers
Accredited employers in New Zealand no longer need to complete the mandatory 21-day recruitment period when posting job openings for skill level 4 or 5 positions. Instead, they are required to advertise and interview qualified candidates to show that they have attempted to hire locally. This change reduces administrative burdens and speeds up the recruitment process.
Upcoming Changes for Migrants Transitioning from Student Visas
In an effort to support international students, New Zealand has also modified its Post Study Work Visa (PSWV). Starting this year, Indian students who complete a Master’s degree after a Postgraduate Diploma will not lose their eligibility for the PSWV. This allows graduates to stay and work in New Zealand for up to three years, depending on their qualifications.
New Zealand’s recent changes to its visa rules are a significant step toward addressing labor shortages while ensuring that migrants, particularly those from India, have access to better employment opportunities. With easier access to work visas, more flexible pathways for seasonal workers, and new family support measures, Indian migrants are poised to benefit from these changes, making New Zealand an even more attractive destination for skilled workers and students alike.
