Insights from our Panel: Immigration Changes and the Future for Employers & Recruiters

On Tuesday, August 10, Aims Global Immigration & Education Services, in partnership with RCSA, hosted the panel “Immigration Changes and the Future for Employers & Recruiters” alongside Immigration New Zealand.

While much of the discussion focused on the uncertainty New Zealand employers and recruiters currently face, there were a number of key takeaways from the event:

Critical Dates for Employers:

• As of July 19, 2021: The median wage used as the threshold for immigration instructions increased to $27 per hour.
• From November 1, 2021: New applications for the Talent (Accredited Employer) Work Visa and the Long Skills Shortage List Work visa will close. The last day for submission is October 31, 2021.
• Mid-2022: The Essential Skills Work Visa will remain until mid-2022 (official dates still TBD by Immigration NZ).
• Mid-2022: The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) and the 3-check application system will be introduced mid-next year. 

It may seem like there is plenty of time to adjust to the changes that are planned for mid-2022. However it was evident from the panellists that these changes were not even on the radar for most businesses. This could prove challenging for those companies who are quite far from meeting the suggested requirements if they don’t get ahead of the mid-2022 deadline now. 

More About the Accredited Employer Work Visa

As part of this upcoming policy change, more than 23,000 employers will have to obtain INZ accreditation. Employers that are considering supporting more than five work visas in a single year should consider applying directly for the high volume accreditation. 

The Migrant Exploitation Protection Work Visa

While the launch of this visa could impact some sectors more than others, Immigration NZ is hoping to address the vulnerabilities associated with employer-assisted work visas. Within this new visa, migrant employees are able to leave potentially exploitative work environments to find employment elsewhere.

For New Zealand employers, this visa should be heeded as a warning: This is a timely reminder for businesses to reflect on their practices and address anything that could expose them to exploitation claims. 

Overall Uncertainty Regarding Upcoming Immigration Policies

Some situations and policies still unknown, specifically:

• What will happen with the currently pending SMC residence applications
• How the current skill shortage will be resolved while our borders here in New Zealand remain closed/hindered by MIQ
• What Immigration New Zealand’s total system overhaul could mean for individuals and employers

Working with an immigration partner will allow businesses to focus only on the policy changes that impact their unique team. Also, an immigration partner will ensure that a company’s migrant employees are able to work with their employer to establish long-term placement in New Zealand.

Watch the video below to learn more about partnering with an immigration expert.