NEW DELHI: New Zealand government on Sunday implemented alterations to an employment visa program, citing concerns over “unsustainable” net migration and indicating the possibility of additional adjustments in the future.
The modifications include the introduction of an English-language requirement and a reduction in the maximum continuous stay for various lower-skilled positions under the Accredited Employer Worker Visa, according to a statement released on Sunday. Most roles covered by the program will now require minimum skill and work experience criteria.
“These changes are the start of a more comprehensive work programme to create a smarter immigration system that manages net migration, responds to our changing economic context, attracts top talent, revitalises international education, is self-funding and sustainable, and better manages risk,” Immigration Minister Erica Stanford said in the statement.
The release approximated that migration last year reached nearly a record high of 173,000 non-New Zealand citizens. The country’s population currently stands at around 5.1 million.
While the central bank has recently eased concerns regarding another interest rate hike, it had previously cautioned that the population surge could contribute to inflation by increasing demand for housing and rental accommodation.
The working-age population grew at a slower rate in the year ending in March, indicating that the influx of foreign workers may have reached its peak.
