New Zealand Tightens English Language Rules for Migrant Workers

New Zealand will tighten English language rules for mid-skilled work visa applicants, expanding existing requirements to thousands of migrant workers in trades, hospitality and other skill level 3 roles, Immigration Minister Erica Stanford said.

From June 1, minimum English language standards will apply to skill level 3 roles under the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV). This group is the largest single category of AEWV applicants, accounting for around half of all applications.

The required standard is IELTS 4.0 or an equivalent level. Stanford described it as “basic, everyday English for common situations,” rather than a high or advanced level of English.

“Being able to communicate in basic, everyday English ensures that workers understand their rights and engage effectively at work and in the community while they are here,” Stanford said.

Until now, the requirement applied only to skill levels 4 and 5, which together make up just 16 percent of AEWV applications.

Stanford said the changes are also linked to two new residence pathways launching in August under the Skilled Migrant Category.

For the first time, New Zealand will create dedicated routes for migrants in trades and technician roles. Another pathway will be available for migrants with at least five years of skilled work experience, including two years in New Zealand.

“With the introduction of two new skilled residence pathways in August it is also important that people coming to New Zealand for mid-skilled roles with aspirations for residence arrive with a minimum of basic, everyday English,” Stanford said.

“They will then have up to five years to meet the higher level of English required for residence.”

Current AEWV holders will be covered by transitional arrangements. Workers whose visas expire on or before December 1 this year will be exempt from the new English requirement when applying for a skill level 3 renewal.

However, workers whose visas expire after December 1 will need to meet the new requirement. Workers who have already provided English language evidence in a previous application will not need to submit it again.

The requirement will not apply to Global Workforce Seasonal Visa applications, Peak Seasonal Visa applications, or job change applications.