Employers to lead Work and Income engagement

From Monday, 7 October 2024, accredited employers will need to engage more directly with Work and Income as part of the test to see whether New Zealanders are available for their role. 

This change affects most ANZSCO Level 4 or 5 vacancies at the Job Check stage, requiring employers, rather than immigration professionals, to communicate directly with Work and Income. This is aimed at ensuring a more genuine test of the domestic labour market before looking to hire migrant workers, improving the integrity of the Labour Market Test. 

The Government has implemented this adjustment to address difficulties encountered by Work and Income when they only have the contact details of an immigration professional. Direct contact with employers will enhance communication about potential New Zealand applicants for the role. 

Employers will be required to provide a direct contact person responsible for hiring decisions, such as a hiring manager, human resources manager, or owner/operator. External organisations, such as recruitment agencies, can still assist with Work and Income engagement if they are involved in hiring decisions and not providing immigration advice on the Job Check application. 

This adjustment is part of broader changes aimed at strengthening the immigration system and addressing concerns raised by specific sectors about temporary work visa settings. 

Further updates and policy details can be accessed on the Immigration New Zealand media page.  

For further information or specific guidance on how these updates may affect businesses or visa applications, please contact Arno Nothnagel, our Director of New Zealand Immigration, at arno.nothnagel@absoluteimmigration.com.