Skilled Residence policy changes will impact some people

The government has today announced a series of changes to skilled residence pathways. These changes include:

Certain occupations in the transport sector no longer to have a pathway to residence

Affected occupations are:

• bus driver
• truck driver
• aircraft refueller
• furniture removalist
• tanker driver
• tow truck driver

From 7 April 2024 migrant workers in any of these occupations cannot apply for residence after 24 months of employment in NZ unless on or before 6 April 2024 a person started work in one of these occupations; or held an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) to work in one of these occupations: or applied for an AEWV to work in one of these occupations and the application is still being processed and the AEWV is finally approved.

New occupations added to the Green List

From 8 April 2024 there are 6 new occupations moving onto the Green List. These are:

Straight to Residence (can apply immediately for residence subject to meeting certain requirements)

• Aviation Engineer (Avionics, Aeronautical, Aerospace Engineer)
• Naval Architect (aka Marine Designer)
• ICT Database and Systems Administrator
• Mechanical Engineering Technician
• Aircraft Maintenance Engineer

Work to Residence (can apply for residence after 24 months of employment in NZ subject to meeting certain requirements)

• Corrections Officer

Cancelled - 11 occupations going onto the Green List

The government has cancelled the decision by the previous government to add the following occupations onto the Green List. Affected occupations are:

• Paving Plant Operator
• Metal Fabricator
• Pressure Welder
• Welder
• Fitter (General)
• Fitter and Turner
• Fitter-Welder
• Metal Machinist (First Class)
• Panel Beater
• Vehicle Painter
• Road Roller Operator

‍Secondary School Teachers can immediately apply for residence

From May 2024 Secondary School can apply straight for residence provided they:

• Hold a genuine offer of employment as a secondary school teacher in NZ
• Have valid teacher registration
• Are paid the median wage or higher ($31.61 an hour or a salary of $65,749 per annum - this usually means a person would have 3 or more years work experience as a teacher to get onto this level of pay)
• Meet normal immigration requirements such as being of good health and character

To discuss these changes or for answers to any questions contact the team at Malcolm Pacific Immigration on 0800 800 612