New Zealand clamps down on visas after ‘unsustainable’ migration levels

For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy New Zealand has clamped down on work visa rules due to “unsustainable” migration levels, the government have announced. “It is important that the AEWV settings facilitate the right mix of skilled temporary migrants to address genuine skill and labour shortages, support rebuilding the economy, and to help manage numbers and pressures on core infrastructure, such as schools, housing, and the health system.” “These steps improve the scheme’s integrity and will help to prevent migrant exploitation, following recommendations from the recent Bestwick review, which found serious issues with the AEWV processes. “By having an English language requirement migrants will be better able to understand their rights or raise concerns about an employer early.” New Zealand currently has a population of 5.3 million and has since a large increase in migration since 2022. “These changes are the start of a more comprehensive work programme to create a smarter immigration system that manages net migration, responds to our changing economic context, attracts top talent, revitalises international education, is self-funding and sustainable, and better manages risk,” Ms Stanford added.