189 NZ stream changes

In its Economic and Fiscal Update in July the Government announced intended amendments to the eligibility for New Zealand citizens applying for a subclass 189 Skilled Independent visa. It states:

"The Government will reduce the income eligibility requirement for the New Zealand stream of the Skilled Independent (subclass 189) visa (the Pathway), and promote take-up of the Pathway by eligible New Zealand citizens.

Eligibility for the Pathway will be extended to Special Category (subclass 444) visa holders who have a taxable income at or above the Temporary Skilled Migrant Income Threshold for at least three of the last five income years, including the most recent year. The Government will also provide clearer public information on the Pathway, undertake an advertising campaign and contact potential applicants to promote take-up."

We await further announcements about the implementation of these changes.