Nats immigration policy aimed at skills shortages

New Zealand’s immigration policy needs to take account of the intense international competition for skilled migrants, says Business NZ.

Commenting on the National Party’s immigration policy released yesterday, Business NZ Chief Executive Phil O’Reilly said it showed signs of being able to compete well against other countries in competition for skilled workers.

“Speed, efficiency and responsiveness in attracting and welcoming talent will be increasingly important to New Zealand’s future prosperity. We need a more businesslike policy to attract skilled migrants and make it easier for skilled New Zealanders to return home,” Mr O’Reilly said.

“Allowing skilled workers from overseas more flexibility to undertake temporary work here while seeking employment within their area of expertise, seasonal worker changes and further improvements to policies allowing employers to recruit overseas – these are sensible ideas that should help New Zealand businesses deal with the current skills shortages.”

A Business NZ survey of more than 2,000 employers released this week found the shortage of skilled staff was their top concern.