Hospitality NZ welcomes new residence pathways for skilled migrants
New visa pathways should benefit the New Zealand hospitality industry.
Hospitality New Zealand (Hospitality NZ) has welcomed the government’s announcement of two new residence pathways designed to address long-standing challenges faced by the sector.
Minister of Immigration Hon Erica Stanford confirmed the changes, which include a Skilled Work Experience pathway recognising the value of practical, on-the-job training.
Hospitality NZ Interim Chief Executive Nick Keene said the initiative is an encouraging step for a sector that has long struggled with residency pathways.
“We are pleased to see the creation of the Skilled Work Experience pathway that recognises the value of work experience and the nature of on-the-job training, which is especially prominent within the hospitality sector,” Mr Keene said.
Under the current Skilled Migrant Category, most hospitality roles have effectively been excluded. Keene noted that this has been a significant frustration for businesses and skilled workers alike.
“Today’s announcement goes some way to providing options for our skilled migrant workforce to stay in New Zealand,” he said.
While some roles will still carry additional requirements or restrictions, Hospitality NZ said it looks forward to working with government to ensure the sector can benefit fully from the new pathway, while also continuing to invest in developing the domestic workforce.
To find out more visit hospitality.org.nz.
