Detailed information about changes to the Essential Skills policy is now available. The amended policy applies to all Essential Skills applications made from 28 August 2017.

The changes to the Essential Skills work visa category include:

• The introduction of remuneration bands. The mid-skilled remuneration rate of $19.97 per hour equates to $41,538 per year, based on a 40-hour work week.
• The introduction of a maximum duration of 3 years for Essential Skills workers in lower-skilled employment. After 3 years, lower-skilled workers will need to spend 12 consecutive months outside New Zealand before they can be granted a further Essential Skills visa to undertake lower-skilled work
• If your employment contract is for a period of time less than the maximum visa duration, your visa will be valid for the length of your employment contract.
• Requiring the partners and children of Essential Skills workers in lower-skilled employment to meet the requirements for a visa in their own right

(Source: Immigration New Zealand)