New Zealand: Updates to Skilled Migrant Category and Accredited Employer Work Visa Programs Introduced
July 13, 2023
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At a Glance
The New Zealand government announced several updates to existing visa programs, including the following key changes:
- An upcoming new, simplified points system for the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) program, starting October 9, 2023;
- A deadline for applicants for the current SMC program to submit their Expression of Interest before the final selection round on August 16, 2023; and
- A new requirement for Accredited Employer Work Visa holders to leave New Zealand after a continuous five-year stay, starting November 2023.
The situation
Immigration New Zealand has introduced several changes to the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Resident Visa and Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) programs.
A closer look
| Change | Details | Impact |
| Simplified points system for SMC program |
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| Final Expression of Interest selection under the current SMC |
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Applicants benefit from the flexibility to either continue filing under the current program or withdrawing their application, which could potentially lead to a refund of application fees. |
| New rules for AEWV holders |
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Background
Immigration New Zealand continues to update their various immigration processes and has introduced the new rules to complement the Green List and Sector Agreement residence pathways with the intention of providing clear residence options for individuals based on Immigration New Zealand’s prescribed criteria.
The simplified points system focuses on granting residence to individuals who can fill medium- to long-term skill needs that are difficult to fill from the domestic labour market with the intention to align with the Immigration Rebalance, give certainty to migrant workers and their families, reduce processing times, and reduce immigration and labour market risks and drivers of exploitation.
Looking ahead
It is likely that the New Zealand government will continue introducing simplified criteria for their other visa programs or introduce more streamlined processes as it continues to overhaul its immigration system.
This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen or send an email to [email protected].
