Immigration NZ requires higher standards

The demand for dairy farm workers from the Philippines continues to remain strong, as NZ farmers still find it increasingly difficult to recruit locally suitable applicants reports Scoop. Filipino migrant workers have been coming to NZ over the last few years and have proven popular because of their strong work ethic and a desire to make a better life for themselves. Due to the increasing number of dairy farm workers from the Philippines being employed by NZ farmers, Immigration NZ has tightened up on the selection criteria applicants must have before visas are approved. They will need to show that they have had a minimum of two years work experience before qualifying on a commercial dairy farm before obtaining a work permit. Many applicants for positions on NZ dairy farms from the Philippines have agriculture or veterinary degrees, but lack the work experience. These people no longer qualify for positions on NZ dairy farms. Unless they can prove to immigration NZ that they have the work experience they will not qualify for work visas. One New Zealand Company, Immigration Placement Services Ltd has established an office in Manila, Philippines to ensure applicants are screened properly and meet Immigration NZ requirements for their work permits. They provide a free service to New Zealand farmers and employers in sourcing suitable applicants. The company is able to provide this service free to NZ employers as it is paid by migrants wishing to obtain a job offer to qualify to migrate to NZ. Farmers wishing to use the service may search for suitable applicants on the company's website http://www.immigratenz.co.nz/farmers.php where they can review applicants CVs and select those that meet their requirements. Telephone or video interviews are then arranged between the employer and applicant, so farmers may be able to select those most suitable for their requirements.