Accepting Foreign Workers
A step-by-step guide for employers preparing to hire under Employment for Skill Development or Specified Skilled Worker.
Before recruitment
- Confirm the eligible field and work category.
- Prepare a job description, working conditions and equal-remuneration rationale.
- Select the correct support structure.
- Check sending-country procedures and recruitment fees.
- Build a realistic arrival and onboarding schedule.
Employment and development plan
For ESD, the employer must operate an approved development plan with measurable goals, instruction, assessments and records. For SSW, the contract must satisfy statutory employment standards and SSW(i) requires a support plan.
| Control | Evidence to retain |
|---|---|
| Employment conditions | Contract, notice of conditions, wage comparison |
| Skills development | Plan, instruction record, assessment results |
| Daily-life support | Orientation, consultation and interview records |
| Residence management | Expiry list, filing copies and notification log |
First 30 days after arrival
- Housing, resident registration and essential contracts
- Workplace and safety orientation in an understandable language
- Payroll, deductions, social insurance and tax explanation
- Named consultation contact and emergency route
- Confirmation that the actual work matches the approved category
Outsourcing support does not eliminate the employer’s responsibility for lawful employment and accurate notifications.