Important change to Queenstown work visa policy

As mentioned in our recent newsletter, many Queenstown employers and their employees are frustrated by the work visa process in Queenstown. However, there is some good news.

Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has listened and has made a change to its processes. It has temporarily removed the requirement for a labour market test for some work visa applicants.

What is the change?

INZ has temporarily waived the requirement for employers to prove that New Zealanders are not available or readily trainable for certain jobs within the Queenstown region.

The change came into effect on 19 February 2015. It will be in place until 30 June 2015.

Does the waiver apply to every visa applicant?