New Zealand announced immediate changes to its employment visa program on Sunday in response to near-record migration levels last year, which authorities deemed “unsustainable.” The reforms include introducing English language requirements for low-skilled jobs and establishing minimum thresholds for skills and work experience on most employer work visas. Additionally, the maximum continuous stay for most low-skilled roles will be reduced from five years to three years.
Immigration Minister Erica Stanford emphasized the government’s focus on attracting and retaining highly skilled migrants, particularly in fields like secondary teaching where there are skill shortages. “At the same time, we need to ensure that New Zealanders are put to the front of the line for jobs where there are no skills shortages,” she stated.
Last year, approximately 173,000 individuals migrated to New Zealand, nearing a record level, as reported in the statement. With a population of around 5.1 million, New Zealand has experienced a significant increase in migrant numbers since the end of the pandemic, raising concerns about potential inflationary pressures.
The decision to tighten visa rules aligns with efforts by neighbouring Australia, which has also witnessed a surge in migrants. Australia recently announced plans to halve its migrant intake over the next two years in response to similar concerns about the sustainability of migration levels.