Immigration New Zealand (INZ) is the government agency responsible for managing New Zealand's immigration policy. It is in charge of issuing visas, providing information on residency and citizenship requirements and helping people settle into life in New Zealand. INZ regularly updates its immigration policy and processes to reflect changes in the global environment and to ensure the safety of all migrants and New Zealand citizens. This article will provide an overview of the changes that INZ has recently introduced, including updates to the Green List and other immigration policies.
From 15 December 2022, registered nurses and midwives will transition to the Straight to Residence Green List pathway. Medical doctors are also welcomed in this new arrangement.]
From March 2023, auditors will also be added to the Straight to Residence Green List pathway.
Good news! Starting in March 2023, the following professions will now be eligible to take advantage of the Work To Residence Green List pathway:
The Green List will next be reviewed in mid-2023.
For those who obtained a Post Study Work Visa, but were unable to go ahead with their plans due to the closure of borders in March 2020, they are entitled for a 12-month Open Work Visa if they haven't already entered New Zealand on another visa.
To ensure that essential workers are able to maintain their current positions, the government is launching a simplified Specific Purpose Work Visa. Applicants may be granted this visa for up to three years and will enjoy continued employment in their chosen field.
The application process will be simplified, requiring only a letter from the employer to confirm that the individual has retained employment in their original role and is still under similar or better conditions than those approved for their Critical Purpose Visitor Visa.
Employers who apply for the Accredited Employer Work Visa will have their accreditation period automatically extended by one year if they submit an application before July 4, 2023.
To grant employers confidence heading into 2023, this one-time extension will guarantee access to reliable labor without the extra financial burden and paperwork of applying for accreditation again.
Putting off full administrative coverage of all migrants, including those with job permits, until 2024 will allow the Government to make progress on other areas such as the Skilled Migrant Category review and family/partnership immigration rules.
To address the critical need for bus and truck drivers, a sector agreement will be established that provides a pathway to permanent residence with appropriate time limitations. Government officials will collaborate with industry representatives in drafting this accord.
INZ is committed to providing a safe and secure immigration environment for everyone. The updates outlined in this article are designed to ensure that migrants can settle quickly, fulfill their ambitions and contribute to the New Zealand economy. For more information about INZ's immigration policies, please book a consultation with us.
