How New Zealand Employers Can Attract Skilled Migrants in 2025
Migrant workers are a big part of New Zealand’s economy. In fact, around 83,122 workers in the country as of December 2024 have an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV). It’s become one of the main ways skilled migrants come to New Zealand. About 5% of the workforce also comprises temporary visa holders, one of the highest in OECD countries.
These employees are essential in filling labour shortages across various industries, including information technology, construction, engineering, and hospitality. As 2025 approaches, attracting skilled workers will be even more critical to meet the growing demand in these sectors.
This blog will teach you everything about hiring skilled migrants and how a headhunter New Zealand-based companies can help.
Understanding the 2025 Skilled Migration Landscape
Before launching your recruitment efforts, it’s important to understand New Zealand’s immigration policies and visa regulations. The migration landscape is evolving, and staying informed on the latest trends and policies will help you attract the best talent in 2025.
Latest Immigration Policies and Visa Regulations
New Zealand has updated its immigration rules to support skilled migrants while prioritizing local workers. The AEWV is still a key option for hiring international talent, but new rules ensure migrants are ready to succeed. This skilled migration visa now includes English language requirements and proof of skills through work experience or qualifications.
The rules also require employers like you to show you’ve tried to hire locally by advertising jobs for at least 21 days and explaining why you didn’t choose local workers. Staying up to date with these changes will help you attract skilled migrants and grow your business correctly.
Emerging Global Talent Pools
Talent pools today are no longer confined to specific regions. Countries like the Philippines, India, and China are emerging as New Zealand’s key sources of skilled workers.
The country’s appeal—with its strong economy, high quality of life, and work-life balance—makes it an attractive destination. Tapping into these diverse talent pools will allow you to access a broad range of expertise and fill critical roles in your workforce.
Impact of Global Events on Migration Trends
Global events—such as economic shifts, political changes, and even the lingering effects of the pandemic—continue to shape migration trends. For example, remote work opportunities have made it easier for talent to work internationally, which may impact migration patterns.
New Zealand’s ability to adapt to these global shifts, along with its flexible immigration pathways and benefits, will play a key role in attracting skilled migrants.
Effective Strategies for Attracting Skilled Migrants
Attracting skilled migrants requires more than just posting job ads—it’s about creating a compelling offer that appeals to international talent. Here are some effective strategies to help you stand out and attract skilled workers in 2025.
• Enhance employer branding and global presence
Skilled migrants are more likely to apply to companies with a positive reputation locally and internationally. Focus on showcasing your company’s values, success stories, and work culture to boost yours. You can do it through social media, employee testimonials, and any awards or recognitions your company has received.
For example, you can promote flexible working arrangements and focus on innovation. Establishing a global presence through job boards, international career fairs, or partnerships with overseas recruitment agencies can also widen your talent pool.
• Offer competitive compensation and benefits packages
For one, consider offering relocation help, housing support, or visa sponsorship to make moving easier for migrants. Adding perks like health insurance, retirement plans, and bonuses can make your company more appealing to work for.
• Provide clear career progression and development opportunities
In pursuit of a better life, many skilled migrants look for long-term career growth. So, offer mentorship programs, leadership training, or opportunities for international assignments.
Take Deloitte, for instance. It’s known for its strong focus on professional development, offering employees access to global learning platforms and leadership programs that help them advance in their careers. Showing potential hires that they can grow with your company can make your business more attractive as a long-term career option.
• Cultivate an inclusive and diverse workplace culture
It can be as simple as giving employees paid time off for special religious or cultural holidays or hiring those based on skills rather than personal characteristics.
• Leverage technology for remote recruitment and onboarding
In a world where remote work is increasingly common, it is essential to use technology to streamline recruitment and onboarding processes. To simplify the hiring process for international candidates, you can hold virtual interviews, administer online assessments, and send digital documents.
You can also set up remote onboarding programs to help new hires settle in more smoothly, even before they move to New Zealand.
Collaborating with Government and Educational Institutions
Hiring migrant workers can be challenging, so working with government agencies and schools is helpful in improving the process. For example, if you plan to hire workers from the Philippines, team up with the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and its approved recruitment agencies.
You can also take part in international talent exchange programs to tap into global talent pools. Establishing partnerships with universities and training centres worldwide helps create a pipeline of skilled workers ready to contribute.
Navigating Legal and Compliance Requirements
Understanding New Zealand’s employment laws and visa regulations ensures you remain compliant throughout the hiring process. To attract top talent, consider streamlining visa applications and relocation support.
Providing support services for migrant integration—such as cultural orientation and settlement help—can help new employees adapt well to their new environment. Creating efficient processes will enhance your reputation as a reliable employer for skilled migrants.
Attracting Top Talent Starts Now
Hiring skilled migrants in 2025 requires a strategic approach. To start, note the tips above to stand out in the global talent pool. The earlier you implement these strategies, the better positioned you’ll be to attract and keep the skilled workers that will drive your growth.
Partner with Staffhouse for Global Talent Solutions
Staffhouse International Resources is your trusted partner in accessing top-tier talent worldwide. With years of experience in international recruitment, we specialize in sourcing highly skilled candidates across various industries, including construction, healthcare, and more.
Our services include candidate sourcing, compliance guidance, and streamlined recruitment processes to ensure you meet your hiring goals for 2025. By partnering with us, you simplify recruitment and find the right talent for your business.
