The New Zealand government recently announced that the Talent Work Visa and the Long Term Skill Shortage List Work Visa would close to new applications on Oct. 31.

Key Points:

  • The Talent Work Visa and the Long Term Skill Shortage List Work Visa is set to be replaced by the Accredited Employer Work Visa on July 4, 2022.
    • Individuals who currently hold one of or applied for these visas can continue on their current pathway to residence and apply for subsequent visas if a residence from work (RFW) application is submitted.
  • Employers can continue to support migrant worker on an Essential Skills Work Visa until July 3, 2022, along with other types of work visas, without accreditation.
    • Beginning July 4, 2022, employers can support temporary migrant workers through the Accredited Employer Work Visa.

Additional Information: Work to residence (WTR) visa holders may be eligible to apply for the new 2021 Resident visa. More information regarding the eligibility requirements for the 2021 Resident visa can be found here.

BAL Analysis: Employers and employees should be aware of the upcoming Oct. 31 visa application deadline. BAL will continue to monitor New Zealand’s visa changes and will provide more information as it becomes available.

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

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