Changes to various immigration policies implemented

 IMPACT — MEDIUM

The government of New Zealand recently implemented changes to various immigration policies.

Key Points:

• New Zealand authorities will automatically extend employer accreditations for 12 months for those who apply by July 4, 2023.
• The expansion of the accreditation system will be deferred until 2024. Working Holiday Visa holders, partners of Accredited Employer Work Visa holders and open work visa holders can continue to work for non-accredited employers until at least 2024.
• Foreign nationals who held a Post Study Work Visa but were unable to enter New Zealand because of the COVID-19 pandemic are eligible for a 12-month open work visa if they are not in New Zealand on another visa.
• Critical Purpose Visitor Visa holders can apply for a three-year Specific Purpose Work Visa, allowing them to work in New Zealand in the same role or better that was approved for their Critical Purpose Visitor Visa.
• New Zealand authorities added medical doctors, registered nurses and midwives on the Straight to Residence Green List program.

BAL Analysis: The government of New Zealand continues to implement immigration policy changes to attract more foreign nationals to live and work in the country and address labor shortages.

This alert has been provided by BAL Global Practice Group. For additional information, please contact berryapplemanleiden@bal.com.

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