China special work visa upgraded

Since 14 October 2024, visa limits have been revised for the These adjustments align the visa with the recent upgrade to the New Zealand-China Free Trade Agreement.

The original 2008 agreement allowed for 800 specific work visas aimed at Chinese nationals across five targeted occupations. These roles include:

• Chinese chefs
• Traditional Chinese medicine practitioners
• Mandarin teacher’s aides
• Wushu martial arts coaches
• Chinese tour guides

Each visa is granted for a maximum period of three years. Upon completion, individuals must wait for another three years outside New Zealand before they can reapply for a visa under this category.

An upgrade to the agreement occurred in 2018, leading to a reallocation of visa caps from April 2022. This upgrade increased visa availability for specific positions. For instance, the number of visas for Chinese Tourism Specialists increased from 100 to 200, while Mandarin Teacher’s Aides increased from 150 to 300.

In contrast, the allocations for the less frequently utilised categories, such as Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Wushu Martial Arts Coaches, were reduced. Additionally, the category of Chinese Tour Guides was expanded to embrace ‘Chinese Tourism Specialists’, simplifying the hiring process for New Zealand businesses.

Immigration criteria have changed from 14 October 2024, making 200 visas available for Chinese Tourism Specialists, instead of the previous Chinese Tour Guide designation. Moreover, the qualification parameters for Chinese chefs will be broadened to permit those holding a Certificate of Occupational Skill Level (COSL) Level 3 in traditional Chinese cuisine.

For more details on AEWV applications and employer responsibilities, please contact Arno Nothnagel, Director of New Zealand Immigration, at arno.nothnagel@ absoluteimmigration.com.