Critical Phase-Outs Before Accredited Employer Work Visa Roll-out

Key Points

• On June 22, 2021, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) announced regulatory changes to the current Accredited Employer Work Visa program. Three existing policies will cease on June 30, 2021.
• The three phased-out policies are: Accredited Employer (Talent – Accredited Employer), Labour Hire Accreditation (Essential Skills), and Approval in Principle (Essential Skills).  
• Visa status renewals and accreditation renewal applications (under these three) are permitted until June 30, 2021. Employers will not be able to renew or apply under these policies after June 30, 2021.
• Foreign nationals will be able to apply for Essential Skills and Talent (Accredited Employer) Work to Residence visas, and other temporary work visas, until Oct. 31, 2021.