Changes to work visas coming into effect in 2021 have been announced by the New Zealand Government. Which of these changes will be felt by ICT specialists and other skilled workers planning to relocate to the country?
A new temporary work visa will replace 6 work visas
From 2021, a new temporary work visa will replace 6 existing visas:
- Talent (Accredited Employer) Work Visa
- Long Term Skill Shortage List Work Visa
- Essential Skills Work Visa
- Essential Skills Work Visa — approved in principle
- Silver Fern Job Search Visa
- Silver Fern Practical Experience Visa
Two of these visas — Talent (Accredited Employer) and Long Term Skill Shortage List work visas — are popular options among international ICT workers relocating to New Zealand.
The Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa will be not affected by these changes.
Learn more about New Zealand visas:
→ Relocation process in New Zealand
Companies will use a new process for employing immigrants
From 2021, New Zealand employers wishing to employ migrant workers on the new temporary work visa will lead a 3-step process:
- Employer check. This step will include checking whether New Zealand employers can hire migrants on the new work visa. This will be mandatory for all employers, even those with an existing accreditation.
- Job check. This step will include checking that the job is paid in line with the New Zealand market rate. It will also include a labor market test for all low-paid jobs to ensure New Zealand workers are not available. Employers will not need to undertake a labor market test if they offer high-paid work in rural areas and smaller towns.
- Worker check. When the worker applies for a visa, they must show they have the skills to do the job they have been offered as well as meet New Zealand’s standard character, identity and health requirements. It means that migrant workers should not pose a security risk to the country and be in no danger to society.
Immigration New Zealand, a government agency responsible for work and immigration visas, will carry out these checks when they assess submitted visa applications. The organization is currently working through the details of how the new visa will be implemented.