New Zealand Plans Easier Residency Pathways to Address Skilled Worker Shortages Amid Citizen Exodus

New Zealand has introduced two new residency pathways under the Skilled Migrant Category to attract and retain skilled workers and tradespeople, aiming to support economic growth and address workforce shortages. The Skilled Work Experience pathway targets migrants in skilled roles with at least five years of relevant experience, including two years in New Zealand, and a salary threshold of 1.1 times the median wage. The Trades and Technician pathway is designed for those with Level 4 or higher qualifications and at least four years of post-qualification experience, including 18 months in New Zealand, paid at or above the median wage. These changes also include increased points for New Zealand university qualifications to help international students transition to permanent residence and reduced work experience requirements. The government emphasized these pathways will help businesses retain crucial skills not available in the domestic workforce, amid concerns over negative economic growth and a record number of New Zealand citizens leaving the country. While the new measures have been welcomed by business groups, one coalition partner, New Zealand First, does not support the policy.