NZ First vows to replace Accredited Working Visa with shortage-focused scheme

NZ First announced plans to abolish the Accredited Working Visa and replace it with a Skilled Work Visa that only applies where a clear shortage exists. The new system would link entry to a specific occupation, region and demonstrable need, rather than allowing any accredited employer to hire overseas workers. The party claims the existing scheme has turned into a broad labour-hire channel, bypassing New Zealand workers and enabling exploitation.

Its platform includes measures such as a New Zealand worker safeguard, restored wage floor, mandatory domestic recruitment efforts, stronger employer accreditation and focused enforcement on high-risk cases. It also pledges to publish detailed transparency data and protect migrant workers from bad sponsors. The announcement was made at a gathering in Dunedin, emphasizing the party’s stance that immigration should serve economic interests and genuine skill shortages.