Article published at stuff.co.nz

Work visa rules have changed in a move intended by the government to reduce exploitation and improve conditions for migrant workers.

The new rules came into effect on October 7, include workers having a base salary of $79,560 to qualify for a Work to Residence Visa. Employers must be accredited and, controversially, include increased costs and capped numbers for eligibility to the Parent Category visa programme.

Even more changes will be introduced in 2020 and 2021.

One of New Zealand's most experienced immigration advisers says the new regulations are causing some unease and confusion in the marketplace. David Cooper, director at Malcolm Pacific Immigration and a licenced immigration adviser, says the main concern for employers is staff retention.

"Employers want to know how they can retain staff in a tight labour market," he says. "Employers will need to seek information, advice and help with future planning around the steps they can take, both with staff retention and staff recruitment.

"As for the overseas workers themselves, there will be people who could have had a pathway to residence who no longer will have that option. That's because they're not going to earn enough to meet the new $79,560 per annum threshold."

Cooper says one option for workers is to see if they can apply under the Skilled Migrant Category, or if there are other categories for residence which may help them.

He says many workers are now feeling the stress of being in an uncertain position regarding work and living in New Zealand.

"They're good workers. They like New Zealand and they want to be able to stay and have a good future for their families. A lot of those people are confused right now, wondering what to do if they don't earn that magic number."

With an estimated 30,000 businesses affected by the changes, Cooper says seeking expert advice will be an important step towards peace of mind, and a smooth transition to the new system, for business owners and workers alike.

"What people need to do is get good quality advice about how these changes impact them, both here and now and with the extra changes which will be rolling out in 2020 and 2021.

"We offer a first assessment at no cost and if we can't help people, we will be honest and tell them what their options are. If we can help, we will help them navigate the system to try and achieve their goals."