New Zealand Immigration Update:
Changes to Accredited Employer Framework
Update
The New Zealand Government has announced significant changes to the accredited employer framework.
What are the key changes?
1. Increasing the minimum base salary for a work to residence visa, from $55,000 to $79,560.
2. Removing the option to get a permanent resident visa after two years of holding a work to residence visa, with a salary of more than $90,000.
- Employees will still be able to acquire standard residence but will need to continue living in New Zealand for a further two years to acquire a permanent resident visa.
3. Limiting employer accreditation to 24 months.
- From 7 October 2019 Immigration New Zealand will only grant employers accredited status for two years, rather than five.
Who will be impacted?
- Accredited employers looking to support employees through the work to residence visa pathway; and
- Individuals working for accredited employers who earn at least $55,000 but have not yet applied for a work to residence visa.
Our advice
If you are earning between $55,000 and $79,560 and have not yet applied for a work to residence visa, we recommend you do so before 6 October 2019.
Questions?
Please get in touch with one of our experts today.
Natasha Rae - Associate
P: +64 3 335 3483
E: natasha.rae@cavell.co.nz
Jackson Hagen - Law Clerk
P: +64 3 335 3480
E: Jackson.hagen@cavell.co.nz
