Did you know Employers who breach immigration law can be fined, imprisoned, lose their accreditation status and be placed on a stand-down list? From 7 April 2024, the criteria for hiring migrants under the AEWV has changed, with the introduction of additional requirements during the accreditation, Job Check stages, and throughout the period of accreditation. Hiring migrant workers provides a wide range of advantages for New Zealand employers, such as enriching their teams’ diversity and filling skills gaps. Yet, these advantages come with considerable legal responsibilities and consequences. N ..read more

New Zealand’s stunning landscapes and rich cultural tapestry beckon people from across the globe to make it their home. For prospective immigrants, the path to starting a new life in Aotearoa is full of excitement but can also be dotted with complex regulatory processes, particularly in the realm of health assessments. The Immigration Health team at Immigration New Zealand (INZ) plays a pivotal role in the immigration process, ensuring the good health of both those entering the country and the nation as a whole. Understanding the intricacies of the health assessment system can significantly sm ..read more

You may meet Immigration New Zealand (INZ) English language requirements for NZ visas other than skilled residence visas by using your English-speaking background. Your English-speaking background can be demonstrated through education, qualifications, and use of English in work, family, and daily life. Please note that if you are applying for a skilled residence visa, English-speaking background cannot be used as evidence of your English language ability. Refer to your visa requirements for information on how to fulfil INZ English language criteria. Things You Should Know Before Applying for a ..read more

Finally, the new competence assessment requirements are out now. The Nursing Council NZ has made changes to the competence assessment for Internationally Qualified Nurses (IQN). A competency examination is now replacing the Competency Assessment Programme (CAP). According to the Council, the Internationally Qualified Nurses applying from December 2023 must undertake objective competence examinations. Let’s understand the new requirements of the NCNZ (Nursing Council of New Zealand). So, read the blog till the end and gain comprehensive details on the new assessment requirements for Internation ..read more

Exciting changes are happening for internationally qualified nurses (IQNs) looking to work in New Zealand. The Nursing Council has implemented a new competence assessment procedure, starting from December 4th, 2023. To ensure that all nurses practicing in New Zealand meet the highest standards of competence and professionalism, the Council now requires applicants to undergo a new assessment process. This includes an online theoretical examination and a clinical examination. If you’ve already submitted your application before December 4th, 2023, don’t worry – you will continue with your existin ..read more

The Workplace Relations and Safety Minister has announced a forthcoming increase in the adult minimum wage to $23.15 per hour, effective from April 1, 2024. This marks a 45-cent per hour raise from the current hourly rate of $22.70. The training and starting-out minimum wages will also rise to $18.52 per hour, remaining at 80% of the adult minimum wage. This represents an increase from the current minimum rate of $18.16 per hour. For an employee working 40 hours a week, the minimum wage increase to $23.15 per hour translates to an additional $18 per week before tax. The adjustment will result ..read more

Mark your calendars for the next selection for the Parent Resident Visa Category expressions of interest (EOIs) on 13 February 2024. If you have a child who is a New Zealand citizen or resident, you have the opportunity to apply for permanent residency. All you need is for your child to meet the income requirements and agree to sponsor you. To be eligible for the February draw, remember to submit your EOI by 31 January 2024. Only 100 lucky individuals will be selected in the ballot. If you have already submitted your EOI, be sure to check that you meet the category requirements. Keep in mind t ..read more

Working holiday visas are available to young people, usually aged 18 to 30, but 18 to 35 in a select few countries. They let you travel and work in New Zealand for up to 12 months. If you are from Canada they let you travel and work for up to 23 months, and for up to 36 months if you are from the United Kingdom. Working holiday visas are only available in countries that have an agreement with New Zealand for working holiday visas. The link here provides the starting dates for each working holiday visa scheme in 2024, along with the number of available spots. Applicatio ..read more

Several options are available to meet Immigration New Zealand’s (INZ) English language requirements for NZ visas on a Skilled Residence Pathway. Principal applicants can fulfil INZ English language requirements through citizenship, educational background, and qualifications, or English language tests. Partners and dependent children who are 16 years old or above have the option to fulfil INZ’s English language requirements. This can be achieved not only through citizenship, qualifications obtained, or English language tests but also by opting for English language lessons to enhance their lan ..read more

Are you dreaming of studying, working, and settling in New Zealand? Then, you must know that proving your English language proficiency is one of the primary needs for anyone looking to live, work, or study in the country. However, taking an (International English Language Testing System) IELTS test can be daunting, and it’s not uncommon for international students and skilled professionals to fail to achieve their desired score on the first attempt. But don’t worry, with the IELTS One Skill Retake option, you can retake just one section of the test, giving you more flexibility to showcase your ..read more