NZ tightens immigration rules

WELLINGTON: New Zealand said today it will tighten access to its skilled work visas, just a day after the US and Australia announced similar restrictions on immigration.
New Zealand's immigration minister Michael Woodhouse said he was taking a "Kiwis-first approach to immigration", echoing Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull and US President Donald Trump in announcing policies to ensure jobs for Australians and Americans.
"These changes are designed to strike the right balance ... and encourage employers to take on more Kiwis and invest in the training to upskill them," Woodhouse said in a statement.
The changes to be introduced later this year include a minimum income requirement, making it more difficult for family members to join visa holders and limiting the amount of time seasonal workers are allowed to stay in New Zealand.
A day earlier, Australia announced plans to scrap a visa programme for temporary foreign workers and introduce a tighter immigration system. — Reuters