Work to Residence Visas: Changes effective 28 September 2020
Work to Residence Visas: Changes effective from 28 September 2020, holders of a Work to Residence Visas who have a Residence Application in under the same category will now be able to be granted a subsequent Work To Residence Visa while their Residence Visa application is processed.
These changes apply to the following Work to Residence Visa holders.
- Work to Residence (Long Term Skills Shortage)
- Work to Residence (Talent, Accredited Employer)
- Work to Residence (Talent Arts, Culture, Sports)
- Work to Residence (South Island Contribution)
Under these work visa categories – there is a path to a Residence Visa under the same category after two years of holding this visa.
What are the changes taking place?
- If you have a Residence Visa (under the same category) in progress, you may be issued with a further Work to Residence Visa for a maximum of 24 months.
- A subsequent Work to Residence Visa will be issued if you are over the age of 55 years, if you have a Residence Visa application in progress. Previously you were not eligible.
- A subsequent Work to Residence Visa (Accredited Employer) will be granted where the applicant’s employer is no longer accredited.
- Work to Residence (South Island Contribution) Visa holders may vary the Industry or region specified on their visa to another industry or region on the South Island.
These changes allow for greater certainty for those on Work to Residence Visas who have already lodged Residence Visa applications. With Residence Visas taking as long as 24 months to be processed, this will help those waiting for their Residence application to be approved by allowing them to continue working for their employer under their previous visa conditions. It also creates certainty for employers in areas where there is a long term skills shortage, the South Island and the accredited employers around New Zealand.
If you believe these changes impact you, please contact Idesi Legal.
