WK2.20 Instructions on duration of Essential Skills work visas (to 27/08/2017)

Note: The instructions in this section cease to be effective from 28/08/2017.

Work visas may be granted for the period for which the employment is offered, up to a maximum of:

1. five years, if an applicant has not previously been granted a five-year visa under this provision and the work visa is based on an offer of employment that:
   1. is for an ANZSCO Skill level 1 occupation; and
   2. offers a minimum base salary equal to at least the highest threshold stated in Residence from Work (Accredited Employer) instructions (currently $55,000 per annum, see RW2), or
2. one year, if the work visa is based on an offer of employment for an ANZSCO Skill level 4 or 5 occupation, unless (c) or (d) apply; or
3. three years, if the work visa is based on an offer of employment in the Canterbury region (unless the offer is made by a labour hire employer which is not accredited) and the application is made on or before 31 December 2016; or
4. three years, if the offer of employment is from an accredited labour hire company; or
5. 12 months or six months , if the applicant has a current invitation to apply or a current application under the Skilled Migrant Category and meets the criteria at WK2.5.15; or
6. three years in all other circumstances not covered by (a) to (e) above.

Notes:
- Employment is in the Canterbury region if the entire or principal place of work (as defined in section 2 of the Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992) is within the territorial authorities of Christchurch City Council, Selwyn District Council and Waimakariri District Council.

Effective 11/04/2016