The Skilled Migrant and Parent Visa categories are being reopened by the government to reconnect New Zealanders to the world and give local businesses a competitive edge in the constrained labour market.
"We are listening closely to the concerns of businesses, many of whom have approval to hire migrants but are finding it difficult to recruit internationally in a constrained labour market,” said Immigration Minister Michael Wood.
The points-based Skilled Migrant Visa applications have been closed since April 2020. Reopening on November 9, the system will select expressions of interest at the current threshold of 160 points. This will then increase to 180 points and be selected again on
"The resumption of the Skilled Migrant Category is good news for businesses hoping to fill staff shortages in highly skilled areas. Pathways to residency is critical for making sure immigration settings can be globally competitive,” said Kirk Hope, Business NZ CEO.
"Proposed changes for a simpler, more transparent points system will also help attract very highly skilled migrants and provide more certainty for applicants who meet the skills threshold. Business will work with Government during the consultation period to refine the settings," continued Hope.
"The BusinessNZ Network is heartened by today’s announcement, and we would urge the Government to continue to expand the ability of valuable workers from overseas to join the NZ workforce."
