Photo / Mark MitchellThe Government is extending certain essential skills visas by a year and making the application process simpler while Covid-19 border restrictions are in place. "The Government is making it easier for businesses to continue employing their current migrant workers," Faafoi said. From July 19, the maximum duration of Essential Skills visas, for jobs paid below the median wage, will increase from 12 months to 24 months. The application process for Essential Skills visas will also be simplified for workers remaining in their current roles, Faafoi said. Extending Essential Skills visas to last two years means the new Accredited Employer Work Visa, which was due to come into effect on November 1, would be delayed until the middle of next year.

Source: New Zealand Herald July 15, 2021 17:03 UTC