New Zealand: Increased Time For Job Seekers

Skilled workers arriving in New Zealand under the Work to Residence policy will get more time to find a job, says New Zealand’s Immigration Minister David Cunliffe.

“We have listened and acted on the considerable feedback from the migrant community regarding the time that some prospective migrants need to come here and find a skilled position,” Mr Cunliffe said.

“People granted Work to Residence permits under the Skilled Migrant Category will, from 10 April, be given nine months instead of six to find a job. Overseas applicants will also be given an additional three months to get to New Zealand before that nine months begins.

“Another change means that skilled migrants who find a job will no longer need to work for three months prior to getting residence.”

A transitional policy for those already in New Zealand on the Work to Residence permit has also been approved.

“The nine month period is a better balance between giving migrants a decent chance to prove themselves, while also ensuring they have what’s needed by Kiwi employers.

“We certainly don’t want to miss out on those skilled people who have potential to make a real contribution at a time employers need skilled labour to move their businesses forward,” the minister said.

The Work to Residence policy is designed for workers who meet all other requirements for immigration but need to prove their employability before being granted residence. Other approved SMC candidates who have New Zealand jobs or job offers generally receive residence straight away.

“The changes are part of a general review of our skilled migrant policies. Further changes will be announced in due course. Work is also underway to develop a new business model that will further enhance New Zealand’s ability to attract talented people from around the world.”

The New Zealand Association for Migration and Investment described the moves as “steps in the right direction”.

“We are, however, disappointed that government has not adopted our own proposal for an extension of work to residence visas to one year’s duration. We believe that a twelve month visa would provide new arrivals with a more realistic opportunity for exploring the market for their specific skills, and would also make prospective migrants more attractive to employers.

“Many New Zealanders know from their own experience that it can take time and persistence to find appropriate work, even in a buoyant job market. The task is obviously far more taxing and time-consuming for newcomers, who might well experience initial difficulties finding their feet in their new environment. Our immigration policies need to take these realities into account.”