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We have put together a few common FAQ’s on the upcoming immigration changes here.

  • I am on an essential skills work visa, is my visa further extending?

No

  • I am on an essential skills work visa, are there any changes happening?

Yes, from 19th July 2021, the median wage rate is increasing from $25.50 to $27.00 an hour. This means, if you earn $27.00 or more an hour (subject to other requirements being met), you may be eligible for 3 years visa.

This median wage rate is applicable to the essential skills, skilled migrant category, and other critical worker border exception category applications.

  • I am earning $27.00; do I still need to advertise the job?

Yes, labour market test or advertisement for minimum of 2 weeks is essential.

  • What if I earn less than $27.00 an hour, will I be given 6 months visa or 1 year?

With effect from 10th June 2021, you will be eligible for 1 year visa grant (subject to other requirements being met).

  • I am earning less than $27.00 an hour; do I still need to advertise the job?

Yes, you will need to advertise the job for the minimum of 1 week and also obtain a skills match report from WINZ (Ministry of Social Development), unless your job is listed on the undersupplied list on the Work and Income website.

  • If I earn less than $27.00 an hour, how will the stand-down period affect me?

The stand-down period has been postponed until July 2022.

  • I am on working holiday / supplementary seasonal employment work visa, am I getting further extension?

Yes, if your visa is expiring between 21 June 2021 to 31 December 2021, your visa will automatically extend for further 6 months.

  • I am on working holiday / supplementary seasonal employment work visa, and I am eligible for an extension, should I apply for the same?

No, the immigration department will contact you by 25th June 2021. If you do not hear anything from the department by the 25th June, please contact them directly.

  • I am on a supplementary seasonal employment work visa, what are my visa rights?

You will be given open work rights, allowing you to work in any sector in New Zealand.