Transport sector work to residence
The key highlights from the Transport Sector Agreement are:
A two-year work-to-residence pathway for Truck Drivers, Bus Drivers, Ship’s Masters and Deck Hands.
Migrants working in these occupations will be able to apply for residence from 29 September 2023, if they meet the requirements.
There is no cap in this sector agreement, i.e., no quota for residence spaces.
Another review of this agreement will be done by Immigration New Zealand (INZ) in 2024.
Migrants who are already on their two-year work-to-residence pathway will not be affected by any changes made to the agreement as part of that review.
While the Sector Agreement introduced a two-year work-to-residence pathway for the aforementioned roles in the transport sector, the requirements for each of them vary.
Truck Drivers
Which trucking roles are eligible for this pathway?
The eligible roles are Truck Driver, Aircraft Refueller, Furniture Removalist, Tow Truck Driver, and Tanker Driver.
Can any truck driver apply for this pathway?
No, only those truck drivers who have been driving trucks that require a class four or five licence are eligible.
Is there a minimum wage requirement?
Yes, they will need to be paid at least the median wage of $29.66 per hour for 24 months.
Does overseas experience count towards the 24-month experience requirement?
No, only New Zealand-gained experience counts.
Does this New Zealand experience need to be gained on an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)?
Applicants must gain work experience on an AEWV or on an interim visa granted as a result of applying for an AEWV,
or
Before 4 July 2022, on any work visa or Critical Purpose visa with work conditions.
Bus Drivers
Are all bus drivers eligible for this pathway?
No, to be eligible for this pathway, the role should either:
Be for an employer who has signed the ‘All Parties Memorandum of Understanding on Improving Bus Driver Pay and Conditions’ for the region they are working in,
or
Be a school bus driver on a Ministry of Education-funded school bus service,
or
Be a school bus driver on a service directly contracted with a school.
What is the licence requirement for them?
They must hold a ‘P’ (passenger) endorsement on a class two New Zealand drivers’ licence.
What is the wage requirement for bus drivers?
Bus drivers hired under this agreement should be paid at least $28 per hour for 24 months.
Will bus drivers need to be hired on an Accredited Employer Work Visa?
Yes, bus drivers filling these roles will be hired on Accredited Employer Work Visas.
What is the duration of the Accredited Employer Work Visa that eligible bus drivers will receive?
They will receive an Accredited Employer Work Visa that will be valid for three years. This will give them adequate time to complete the 24 months of work experience needed to apply for residence.
