In November 2024, New Zealand updated its Long-Term Skill Shortage List (LTSSL), adding 66 high-demand occupations across various sectors. This initiative aims to attract skilled professionals to fill critical roles and offers pathways to work visas, family inclusion, and potential permanent residency.
Key Sectors and Occupations
The updated LTSSL encompasses several industries, including:
- Engineering: Positions such as Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, and Geotechnical Engineers are in demand. These roles involve designing, constructing, and maintaining infrastructure projects like roads, bridges, and buildings. Salaries range from NZD $75,000 to $130,000, with a minimum qualification of a Bachelor’s Degree in the respective engineering field.
- Healthcare: Roles like General Practitioners, Registered Nurses, Midwives, and Physiotherapists are sought after. These professionals are essential for providing medical care across New Zealand. Earnings range between NZD $60,000 and $200,000, depending on the position and experience.
- Information Technology: Positions such as Software Developers, System Analysts, and IT Project Managers are included. These roles are crucial for advancing New Zealand’s tech industry.
- Education: There is a demand for qualified Secondary School Teachers in various subjects, reflecting the country’s commitment to quality education.
- Skilled Trades: Occupations like Electricians, Plumbers, and Carpenters are needed to support ongoing construction and infrastructure projects.
Visa Pathways for Skilled Professionals
For individuals qualified in these high-demand roles, New Zealand offers several visa options:
- Essential Skills Work Visa: Designed for positions that cannot be filled by New Zealand citizens or residents, this visa allows workers to bring their families and may lead to longer-term visa options.
- Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Resident Visa: A points-based visa offering a direct path to residency for qualified workers in high-demand fields.
- Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV): Available for those employed by government-accredited employers in New Zealand.
- Long-Term Skill Shortage List Work Visa: Specifically for individuals filling roles on the LTSSL, this visa provides a route to residency through the Work to Residence pathway.
Finding Employment Opportunities
Prospective applicants can explore job opportunities through several platforms:
- Seek.co.nz: New Zealand’s main job portal with thousands of listings across various industries.
- Trade Me Jobs: A popular platform for diverse job categories.
- Careers.govt.nz: A government site offering job listings and career advice.
- New Kiwis: Managed by the Auckland Chamber of Commerce, this portal is aimed at newcomers to New Zealand.
- Workhere New Zealand: Focuses on connecting international talent with New Zealand employers.
Additionally, recruitment companies like Robert Walters New Zealand, Hays Recruitment New Zealand, and Randstad New Zealand specialize in linking foreign professionals with employers seeking skilled workers.
Pathway to Permanent Residency
Individuals who qualify for the LTSSL Work Visa can progress towards permanent residency through the Work to Residence pathway. This allows skilled workers to settle in New Zealand, contribute to the workforce, and secure long-term residency for themselves and their families.
Recent Developments: Remote Work Opportunities
In a related move to attract global talent, New Zealand has eased visa regulations to allow tourists to work remotely while visiting the country. This initiative aims to attract digital nomads and boost the economy and tourism sector, especially after challenges posed by the pandemic. The new regulations apply to all visitor visas, including those visiting family or on longer-term visas with partners and guardians. The government is targeting high-earning IT workers from the US and East Asia to boost local spending without competing for local jobs.
These combined efforts reflect New Zealand’s proactive approach to addressing skill shortages and revitalizing its economy by attracting skilled professionals and remote workers from around the world.