2016-Dec 16: Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Visa Requirements – Further Advice

Visa Pak 290: Updated advice for staff about Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers who may not require registration to undertake work.

Visa Paks

16 December 2016

Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Visa Requirements – Further Advice


This item updates previous advice (1 April 2016) regarding Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers.

It was advised previously that if the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board (PGDB) confirmed that legal authority to perform the work on offer is not required, and the position has been assessed as a substantial match under ANZSCO Unit Group 3341 – Plumbers, the application will need to be approved as an exception to instructions (ETI) based on the advice of the PGDB. This advice was incorrect.


An ETI is NOT required in this situation. The aim and intent of SM19 is to ensure that applicants seeking employment in New Zealand in occupations for which registration is required by law have the ability to undertake that employment. While plumber, gasfitter and drainlayer are listed under SM19.5 as occupations which require registration, immigration instructions refer to applicants holding registration “if registration is required by New Zealand law to undertake employment”. Therefore if an applicant’s position description does not require registration (in line with the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Act 2006 (the PGDA)) then it is not an occupation where registration is required by law. This interpretation of instructions is consistent with the requirements of the PGDA.