Changes to Essential Skills Work Visa

New Zealand Government is proposing some changes to Essential Skills Work Visas.

The changes include:
The introduction of remuneration bands to determine the skill level of an Essential Skills visa holder, which would align with the remuneration thresholds being introduced for Skilled Migrant Category applicants

The introduction of a maximum duration of three years for lower-skilled and lower-paid Essential Skills visa holders, after which a minimum stand-down period will apply before they are eligible for another lower-skilled temporary work visa.

Aligning the ability of Essential Skills visa holders to bring their children and partners to New Zealand with the new skill levels.

Exploring which occupations have a seasonal nature and ensuring that the length of the visa aligns with peak labour demand.

Public consultation on the changes to temporary migration settings closes on 21 May, with implementation planned for later this year.

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