The implications of modifications to New Zealand’s Skilled Migrant Category

The government of New Zealand has announced the modifications to the Skilled Migrants Category visas. Here’s is a brief review of the implications for immigrants and firms employing them.

Post-August 14, 2017 overseas immigrant whose pay is lesser than 73, 299 dollars will have to demonstrate that the job is considerably in compliance with the skills list. The immigrant employee will also have to prove that the annual earnings are more than 48, 859 dollars.

This implies that applicant whose annual pay is less than 48, 859 dollars is unlikely to secure a residence even if the job falls under the skills list. For instance workers in the manufacturing sector, retail managers, restaurant managers, and chefs earn less than the specified salary ceiling.

On the other hand, an immigrant who earns a minimum of 73, 299 dollars annually need not demonstrate that the job considerably complies with the skills list. The salary itself will be sufficient to earn the skilled employment points, as quoted by Mondaq.

Though the new immigration policy for skilled migrants has not yet been published, there are other welcome changes that are proposed. A job that entitles to annual earnings of more than 97, 718 dollars will incur bonus points. Work experience will also earn additional points. Applicants in the age range of 39 to 30 years will be awarded more points.

There are other changes too that may not be welcomed by the overseas immigrants. Applicants will be unable to secure additional points if the partner’s qualifications are below the graduate level. Qualifications that are relevant to the job included in the Long Term Skill Shortage List will also not qualify for extra points.

If the qualifications, work experience, and employment are included in the areas identified for future growth, then also additional points will not be awarded. This includes areas such as communications and information technology. Extra points will also not be given for having New Zealand resident sibling, child or parent.

The changes that have been announced will make it tough for immigrants to qualify for residence who are employed in skilled jobs but are paid lower. It may affect the IT, manufacturing and hospitality sectors.

On the other hand, immigrant applicants who earn well will easily qualify for residency even if their jobs do not comply with the skills list. This includes sectors such as management and construction.

If you are looking to Migrate, Study, Visit, Invest or Work in New Zealand, contact Y-Axis, the world’s most trusted Immigration & Visa Consultant.