New Zealand is overhauling its employment visa program to meet a migrant surge and recruit talented workers. Both countries are struggling with high migrant intake, and these adjustments closely track Australia’s.
Reasons for Reform
New Zealand called a near-record 173,000 migrants in 2023 unsustainable. This massive influx, especially after the epidemic, raised concerns about inflation and migrant worker exploitation.
Key Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) Scheme Changes
- English Language Requirement: Applicants for lower-skilled roles (ANZSCO levels 4 & 5) must now demonstrate English language ability. Empowering migrants to understand their employment rights and communicate effectively may reduce their exposure to exploitation.
- Minimum Skills and Work Experience: Most AEWV positions will have a minimum skill and experience requirement. This guarantees firms hire skilled people to fill skill gaps.
- Work and Income Involvement: Employers hiring level 4 and 5 migrant workers must now work with Work and Income, a government agency focusing on employment and social development. This extra step improves recruitment oversight.
- Reduced Maximum Stay Duration: The maximum continuous stay for most level 4 and 5 visa holders has been decreased from five to three years. This change promotes long-term knowledge transfer and skill development for New Zealanders.
- Franchisee Accreditation Streamlined: There is no longer a franchisee accreditation category. Businesses that used this category can now apply for standard, high-volume, or triangular employment accreditation. This simplifies accreditation.
Prioritizing New Zealanders and Addressing Skill Shortages
To address crucial skill shortages like secondary teachers, Immigration Minister Erica Stanford stressed the government’s commitment on attracting and maintaining highly skilled migrants. New Zealanders are prioritized for opportunities with eligible domestic candidates under the amended program.
Protecting Workers and Program Integrity
AEWV system vulnerabilities were found by the Bestwick review, which recommended these changes. The changes aim to improve program integrity and prevent migrant exploitation. An English language requirement and Work and Income engagement are essential to achieve these aims.
Impact and Future Implications
The redesigned program seeks talented migrants who can boost New Zealand’s economy. The changes may affect lower-skilled workers, but they aim to build a more sustainable and balanced migration system. The effectiveness of these reforms will be monitored and maybe adjusted.
Looking Forward: A Balanced Migration Strategy
New Zealand’s revamped job visa policy emphasizes skills-based migration. This strategy addresses worries about rapid population increase, inflation, and migrant labor exploitation. Certain improvements may test certain applicants, but the goal is to build a more sustainable and equitable migration system that benefits New Zealand and new migrants.
