Skills shortages in construction ongoing

The new Construction Sector Accord seeks to raise capability through partnership between industry and government, increasing the need for skilled workers. Sponsoring migrant workers can be a useful source for labour but COVID-19 border restrictions and upcoming immigration developments make this more challenging.

Immigration change is coming for all employers

The Immigration Minister has announced sweeping changes to the work visa scheme which will take effect in the next few months. The impact of these changes will be keenly felt by employers as any business wanting to hire migrant workers must first be registered, or accredited, with Immigration NZ (INZ). This accreditation application requires supporting documentation showing, for example, compliance with all relevant legislation, a commitment to upskilling and employing New Zealanders and other specific criteria yet to be announced. The next months will be an important time for employers, who should begin preparing their business now for successful accreditation applications. We can assist you with this process and ensure you do not experience any gap in your ability to source the skills you need.

Licensed Advisers can ensure employers and employees save time and money

New Zealand Visa Connections is a bespoke firm of Licensed Immigration Advisers who work to support employers and skilled job candidates; making the process easy and stress free. They are experienced at managing the entire process in a way which is efficient, thorough and supportive. Their specialist knowledge saves all sides from making costly mistakes and their expert forward planning benefits all parties when looking at the long term retention of skilled staff. Any work visa application is a two-sided project. Confirming the applicant has everything required is just half of the picture. It is vital that employers’ paperwork is watertight too. New Zealand Visa Connections provide detailed support to employers, supporting them through the recruitment and immigration process, ensuring they can secure the best applicant for their vacancy.

How we work

1. Employers We can help recruit and retain migrants who are skilled and motivated to work for you. Our assessment process can work for you too – we’ll happily check your job applicants to make sure they can get a visa; helping you shortlist and identify those candidates that can really fill the gaps in your workforce. We’ve successfully helped people come to New Zealand for years and are passionate about supporting employers to build their business with the staff they need. We really understand how critical it can be to your company.

How we can help Employers now a. Visa Problems: COVID-19 means that many visa applications are facing difficulties or risk being declined. Have your staff received a letter from immigration saying they need to provide more information? We can formulate the response that Immigration NZ need to be able to approve the visa. b. Employer Accreditation Support Package: Let us enable you to apply successfully ahead of the rush.

We can review the documentation and processes you have in place, identify gaps and advise you on what is needed to fill them for a small fee. c. Perfect Visa Applications: We are passionate about supporting employers to build their business with the staff they need. New Zealand Visa Connections make visa applications that meet all immigration criteria, getting it right from the start to save time and money for everyone. d. General immigration Queries: These crop up all the time in the daily running of Kiwi businesses. Got a general immigration question? We are always happy to chat – just call or email us. We will help you free of charge.

2. Migrants We have extensive experience with work and residency visas and have supported many people in the construction industry to make New Zealand home. It’s a privilege to work with those who have the skills and experience needed to support our growing infrastructure. Our assessment process checks visa eligibility, allowing you to interview safe in the knowledge that the visa application will be a successful process. We have great relationships with Immigration NZ and are skilled advocates. Contact us for a free, no obligation chat or to ask a question about how immigration rules and changes will impact your business or migration plans. Helen Strange, pictured below left, helen@nzvisaconnections.com or 021 0263 2134; and Rebecca Strange, rebecca@nzvisaconnections.com or 021 535 105.

New Zealand Visa Connections is a NZCB National Partner and a bespoke firm of Immigration Advisers working with employers and workers, managing visa applications. Passionate about supporting employers to build their business with the staff they need and understand how critical it is to have staff who are competent and motivated to work. www.nzvisaconnections.com