Immigration Alert - October 2016

Changes to New Zealand’s residence programme

Immigration levels in New Zealand have been a hot political topic over the past year. Concern has focussed primarily on the impact on housing demand and the perceived potential suppression of wage growth. On 11 October, in a surprise move to many, the New Zealand Government announced several immediate changes to the New Zealand Residence Programme (NZRP). While some commentators are already saying this move will have little impact generally and is too little too late, the changes are significant for some future migrants, for those already in New Zealand hoping to stay long term and for businesses wanting to retain the services of highly valued employees.