Skip to main content
See every side of every news story
Published loading...Updated

Peters Concerned at Easier Path for Skilled Migrants

Two new skilled migrant residence pathways will start in mid-2026 to address workforce gaps and support businesses retaining experienced workers, officials said.

  • From next year, the New Zealand government will open two new residence pathways to help Kiwi businesses attract and retain the workforce they need.
  • To plug workforce gaps, the government argues skilled and experienced migrants help fill shortages and support Kiwi businesses, while Stanford said New Zealanders remain prioritised for jobs.
  • Eligibility hinges on wages and specific New Zealand work experience; the Skilled Work Experience pathway requires five years' relevant work, including two in New Zealand at 1.1 times the median wage, while the Trades and Technician pathway requires a Level 4+ qualification and 18 months in New Zealand at or above the median wage.
  • Winston Peters, New Zealand First leader and Foreign Minister, invoked the 'agree to disagree' provision and said he has "serious concerns," warning some residents might fast-track to Australia and supports extending work visas for three years.
  • Willis said the government will add eligibility restrictions and reduce residence work-time requirements for migrants with New Zealand university qualifications.
Insights by Ground AI

13 Articles

Think freely.Subscribe and get full access to Ground NewsSubscriptions start at $9.99/yearSubscribe

Bias Distribution

  • 43% of the sources lean Left
43% Left

Factuality 

To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium

Ownership

To view ownership data please Upgrade to Vantage

U.S. News broke the news in New York, United States on Monday, September 22, 2025.
Sources are mostly out of (0)
News
For You
Search
BlindspotLocal