New Zealand Government Announces New Work Visa Rules in New Zealand With Immediate Effect

The rules for work visas in New Zealand are being changed by the government, which is trying to manage its workforce needs and economic challenges. These changes are part of a bigger plan to control high migration rates and ensure jobs go to people from New Zealand first. The changes are sparked by the nearly record-breaking migration rate of 173,000 non-New Zealand citizens in 2023. They aim to improve how the local job market is tested and lessen the risk of displacing workers from New Zealand.

The change in New Zealand’s work visa rules is aimed at ensuring the immigration system stays fair and prevents the misuse of migrant workers. These actions are planned to form a stronger, balanced immigration system that can adjust to shifts in economic circumstances and workforce needs.

What Are the Requirements for a Work Visa in New Zealand?

The qualifications for a work visa in New Zealand now have stricter requirements, especially regarding unskilled work experience, qualifications, and how well one knows English. These changes are mainly applied to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) scheme and are intended to ensure that only those who possess the necessary skills and expertise receive visas.

For AEWV, the rule is that applicants need to show three years of related work experience or have a qualification at level 4 or higher on the New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework (NZQCF). Also, if you are applying for a job classified as ANZSCO level 4 and 5, there are new requirements for the English language, and you must prove your ability to speak and understand English well.

For employers, these revised prerequisites imply that they should undertake fair measures to confirm whether migrant workers possess suitable qualifications and skills before employing them. This includes checking their qualifications and work experience as part of the job check process.

What are the Changes to the Accredited Employer Work Visa?

The changes to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) scheme are significant, and they affect people who are applying for it now and those who already have an AEWV. The main changes include:

• Minimum Skill and Work Experience Requirements: You must possess a minimum of three years’ work experience related to this field or a relevant qualification at level 4 on NZQCF.
• English Proficiency: To guarantee that applicants for ANZSCO level 4 and 5 roles can comprehend their rights and express any mistreatment, they should satisfy the minor English language requirement.
• Shorter Visa: According to the changes, for most ANZSCO level 4 and 5 roles, the highest period of ongoing visit is now three years instead of five. After this time, people must depart from New Zealand for at least 12 months before they can apply again for an AEWV.
• Changes for Franchisees: The franchisee accreditation category is being removed. From now on, franchise businesses will have to apply in standard, high-volume, or triangular employment accreditation categories.
• New Rules for Employers: Employers should work together with Work and Income, make job postings last at least 21 days, and provide reasons why they didn’t select New Zealanders who applied.

These changes are designed to make the AEWV scheme more suitable for the New Zealand labour market and prevent migrant workers from taking jobs that could be filled by local people.

Ways for Job Hunters from Other Countries to Increase their Prospects of Getting a Work Visa in New Zealand

Foreigners searching for jobs in New Zealand can do a few things to increase their chances of getting a work visa with the new rules. Here are some essential strategies:

• Satisfy the Experience and Qualification Requirements: Make sure you possess a minimum of three years experience in a similar work field or have a qualification at level 4 or higher on NZQCF. If your qualification is below Bachelor’s degree level, get an International Qualification Assessment (IQA).
• Improve English Proficiency: It is very important to show your capability in English for jobs classified as ANZSCO levels 4 and 5. You could consider taking reputable English language tests and improving yourself in this area.
• Search for Accredited Employers: Find and submit applications to accredited employers with permission to hire foreign workers via the AEWV plan. Creating networks and contacts with these employers can improve the possibility of receiving a job offer.
• Know About the Job Market: Learn about the current job market in New Zealand, particularly in areas with a shortage of skills. Customise your applications to fulfil the unique needs and demands of these sectors.
• Seek Professional Guidance: Talking to migration experts like Tri-Nations Migration may help you understand and navigate the application journey. Professional assistance might also help you deal with the complicated situations of new work visa regulations in New Zealand.

Job hunters from other countries should apply these tactics to increase their chances of getting a work visa and beginning a new phase in New Zealand.

Are you thinking about moving to New Zealand and need help with your work visa application? Tri-Nations Migration can provide a consultation. Our experts will assist you in comprehending the new work visa guidelines in New Zealand and lead you through the procedure, making certain that your application fulfils all requirements.. Contact us for more information today.