Other Critical Worker – Border Exception changes
The Minister for Immigration, Kris Faafoi has announced changes to its immigration instructions for employers wanting to request a border exception for their workers under the “other critical worker” category.
The key change has been to the wording for the exception for key workers.
Previously the test for other critical workers was that the person had to have technical or specialist skills ‘not obtainable’ in New Zealand. Which is a very high threshold.
Changes today mean that the specialist skills are ‘not easily obtainable in New Zealand’. This is a much lower threshold.
Removing that requirement will allow entry, in some limited cases, where, for example, a worker has skills which are obtainable in New Zealand but they have unique experience gained overseas which would bring unique expertise to New Zealand businesses.
This change will make it easier for New Zealand businesses to bring in the talent and expertise required to help New Zealand prosper.
This change comes into effect immediately.
If you think this applies to you, please contact Idesi Legal.
