New Zealand announced Monday it will impose stricter English language standards for certain work visa categories while creating new philanthropic opportunities for investor visa holders, according to Immigration Minister Erica Stanford.
The policy updates take effect June 1 and affect the Accredited Employer Work Visa program and the Active Investor Plus Visa Growth category. Officials are also working to launch two additional skilled residence programs in August.
Under the revised rules, English proficiency requirements for the Accredited Employer Work Visa will now include skill level 3 positions in areas like hospitality and skilled trades. This brings those roles in line with standards already required for skill levels 4 and 5.
“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 stated.
The English language mandate does not affect Global Workforce Seasonal Visa or Peak Seasonal Visa candidates, and existing workers seeking job changes are also exempt from the requirement.
Meanwhile, applicants for the Active Investor Plus Visa Growth category will now have the option to direct up to 20% of their investment total toward charitable contributions. This allows up to NZ$1 million ($587,600) of the required NZ$5 million minimum investment to go to philanthropic causes, with remaining funds still required to go toward higher-growth investments.
