We have provided below an expected timeline of Immigration changes:
A brief timeline of immigration changes:
January to 30 June – If your work visa expired between 1 January and 30 June 2021, you would have received an automatic extension, which means that your visa will now expire between July and December 2021.
You must apply for a new visa before this current visa expires to ensure continued legality and employment in New Zealand.
19 July – The median wage rate is set to increase from $25.50 to $27. This wage rate will be a key determinant in visa approvals, affecting whether you receive a 1-year or a 3-year visa.
It also influences eligibility for supporting a partner’s partnership visa application. The new rate of $27 is crucial for essential skills work visas and residence applications under the Skilled Migrant Category.
31 October – This date marks the abolishment of six work visa types, including two essential skills visas, two work-to-residence visas, and two silver fern work visas.
The discontinuation of these visas is part of the broader immigration reform to streamline visa categories and improve the efficiency of the immigration system.
1 November – The compulsory employer accreditation and the introduction of the new Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) will commence.
This accreditation ensures that employers meet certain standards and obligations before they can hire migrant workers, promoting fair employment practices and worker protection.
July 2022 – The compulsory stand-down period for low-paid essential skills work visas will begin.
What can you do right now?
If you can secure a job offer for $25.50 and lodge a visa application by 18 July, you may be eligible for a 3 year work visa. Your employer will not be required to apply for accreditation until they need to sponsor you again when your visa is about to expire.
If you are already earning at least $27, you can also lodge a visa application by 31 October to get a new year work visa. Again, your employer will not be required to apply for accreditation, until they need to sponsor you again when your visa is about to expire.
If you work in an occupation that is listed on the long-term skill shortage list, and you meet the skill requirements for that occupation, lodge a work to residence visa by 31 October 2021.