Many across the world are interested to settle in New Zealand. For some its just a dream, But for those who are willing to live there permanently its a matter of time. Getting visa is a tedious task because there is a lot of documentation and process involved.

The New Zealand dairy industry’s dependence on overseas workers was a hot topic in this years election campaign, so as the newly elected government moves into their first year of governing NZ, it will be a good area to keep an eye on. Assuming there is some form of a transition period from the current employer based work visas to a new visa system (currently being planned) then we are likely to see some temporary changes in what kind of worker numbers are entering NZ in its first year. We also have no idea how the new government may choose to manage the transition too.

Dairy Farming Visa For New Zealand

Dairy farming is one of the most popular industries in New Zealand for immigration. The main reason for it is the huge number of job opportunities and freedom that comes with owning your own dairy farm.

Pathway To Residence For Migrant Workers In The Dairy Industry

Many migrants currently work in the dairy industry, filling skills shortages on farms when there aren’t enough Kiwi workers available. A large proportion of migrant workers in this sector hold employer assisted Essential Skills Work Visas.

In a recent development, from 15 February 2021, Immigration New Zealand have introduced new task descriptions for Dairy Cattle Farmers that will inform the assessment process for Essential Skills work visas and Skill Migrant Category resident visas. This move may assist migrant workers in the dairy industry to secure a pathway to residence, which to date has not been possible.

Statistics New Zealand and the dairy sector – which contributes around 3.5% to our GDP – have developed new task descriptions for dairy farming workers to better represent the skill level requirements in the industry.

There are three new subcategory roles under the occupation of Dairy Cattle Farmer (121313) in the Australia and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO). These roles are:

–         Dairy Farm Manager (Skill Level 1)

–         Assistant Dairy Farm Manager (Skill Level 3)

–         Dairy Herd Manager (Skill Level 3)

While the new descriptions don’t appear under the current Australia and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO) version 1.2, Immigration Officers have been instructed that applications made after 15th February 2021 will need to be assessed based on the immigration-specific view for Dairy Cattle Farmer roles. Immigration New Zealand will continue to refer to ANZSCO 1.2 for all other types of roles when assessing residence and temporary entry applications.

DairyNZ says the Government’s long-awaited decision to provide a pathway to residency is exciting news for thousands of eligible dairy farm workers.

DairyNZ chief executive Dr Tim Mackle says the government announcement allows many valued international dairy workers to become residents and recognises their years of hard work on farms and positive contribution to the dairy sector.

“We are genuinely delighted for these workers and their families. Many dairy workers can now plan and look forward to a future in New Zealand with their families,” says Dr Mackle. “Their contribution will assist the dairy sector to continue playing a key role in New Zealand’s economy.”

For the past 18 months, DairyNZ and Federated Farmers have worked in close partnership to ensure the best possible outcome for migrant dairy workers and their employers.

“We appreciate that the Government has acknowledged the pressure farmers are under, due to being short-staffed, and also recognise the critical role international workers play.”

A number of dairy workers have had residency applications on hold since before Covid-19 affected New Zealand in early 2020. Many have been without their families, who are overseas.

“We have a significant number of international dairy workers in New Zealand who have been here for many years. They play an essential role in our farm teams and enable dairy to continue its vital contribution to New Zealand’s economy,” said Dr Mackle.

How Pitt & Moore can help

We offer an initial free 15-minute consultation to all new clients to discuss your particular circumstances and what services we can provide.

Talk to us

If you would like advice on a work visa application or on a pathway to residence based on your employment in the dairy industry, please feel free to contact Elly Fleming Senior Solicitor, Pitt & Moore Lawyers.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this publication is of a general nature and is not intended as legal advice. It is important that you seek legal advice that is specific to your circumstances.