ACT’s immigration policy

ACT have proposed six things in their immigration policy. Let’s take them in turn.

Deport serious offenders. Anyone on a residence visa who is convicted of a crime with a 10 year or more maximum sentence is deported.

No brainer.

Have skill categories expire each year

I think there is merit in regularly reviewing skill categories for skilled work visas. But an annual review will just mean needing to employ more public servants to do meaningless work. Some skill categories have had shortages for well over a decade, and will not be changing anytime soon.

A five year welfare stand down for residence visa holders

No brainer.

A $6 a day infrastructure surcharge on temporary work visas

Wow. ACT wants a new tax. This tax would be $2,190 a year or $10,950 for a five year work visa. This will probably lead to employers having to pay to cover this, so will make businesses less profitable, and increase prices.

Stronger English language requirements

Yep.

A dedicated overstayer enforcement unit 

We have 20,980 overstayers in NZ. The acceptable level should be zero. Good policy.