IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Income thresholds for Skilled Migrant and Essential Skills visas increased Monday, according to a notice by Immigration New Zealand.

What does the change mean? The increases are part of the annual review process and are detailed as follows (all figures in New Zealand dollars):

Critical Skills Visas

Skill Level Current threshold New threshold as of Nov. 26
Skilled employment in ANZSCO occupation 1-3 $24.29 per hour $25 per hour
Skilled employment in ANZSCO occupation 4-5 (or not in  ANZSCO) $36.44 per hour $37.50 per hour
Threshold to earn bonus points $48.58 per hour $50 per hour

Essential Skills Work Visas

Skill Level Current threshold New threshold as of Nov. 26
Mid-skilled employment in ANZSCO 1-3 $20.65 per hour $21.25 per hour
Higher-skilled employment in any occupation, including ANZSCO 4-5 $36.44 per hour $37.50 per hour
Lower-skilled employment in ANZSCO 1-3 $36.43 per hour $37.49 per hour
Lower-skilled employment in ANZSCO 4-5 $20.64 $21.24 per hour

Analysis & Comments: Employers should budget for the increases. The new income thresholds affect only applications received by Immigration New Zealand on and after Nov. 26. The changes do not affect current visa holders or applications received by the government before Nov. 26.

Source: Deloitte LLP. Deloitte LLP is a limited liability partnership registered in England and Wales with registered number OC303675 and its registered office at 1 New Street Square, London EC4A 3HQ, United Kingdom.