Applications for a visa aimed at luring young skilled workers to New Zealand filled within 30 minutes, Immigration Minister Jonathan Coleman said today.
The "Silver Fern" visa started last month with only 300 places, giving skilled people with New Zealand-recognised qualifications, between the ages of 20 and 35, the opportunity to look for long-term work for up to nine months.
Once they have a job, people could apply for a two-year working visa, which could possibly lead to residency under the skilled migrant category.
"The speed in which quota was filled highlights the attractiveness of the Silver Fern visa and New Zealand's reputation as a great destination for skilled young people," Dr Coleman said.
"We're in competition with other countries for enticing young, skilled people and the Silver Fern visa is doing just that."
Applications are subject to meet certain criteria, including evidence of a bachelor's degree or a trade qualification with two year's work experience.
