COVID-19: New employer-assisted work visa delayed

IMPACT – MEDIUM

New Zealand’s government has announced it will delay the introduction of the new employer-assisted work visa.

Key Points:

• The introduction of the new employer-assisted work visa was expected to occur in early 2021, but the COVID-19 pandemic has pushed the introduction back until after the middle of 2021.
• When it is introduced, the new employer-led process will require all employers to obtain accreditation with Immigration New Zealand. The new employer-assisted work visa will also replace the following visa categories:
  • Essential Skills Work Visas.
  • Essential Skills Work Visas — approved in principle.
  • Talent (Accredited Employer) Work Visas.
  • Long-Term Skill Shortage List Work Visas.
  • Silver Fern Job Search Visas (closed Oct. 7, 2019).
  • Silver Fern Practical Experience Visas.

• Current visas approved under these categories will not be impacted and will remain valid until their expiry.

Additional Information: More information about changes to temporary work visas is available here.

Analysis & Comments: The delay means the new employer-led process will not be available in early 2021 as was expected. Employers may wish to contact Deloitte for more information about the new process, and whether it will be the right option for their employees once it is introduced. The response to COVID-19 continues to develop, and Deloitte will provide additional updates as information becomes available. Please check Deloitte’s COVID-19 Digital Map, available here, for information on travel restrictions and immigration changes in other countries.

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