Fiji Repeals Skilled Professionals Vetting: What Comes Next for Foreign Workers?

The Fijian parliament has officially enacted the Registration of Skilled Professionals repeal bill, effectively abolishing the system that facilitated the assessment of foreign workers through the Skilled Professionals Evaluation Committee. The decision garnered significant support, with 34 votes in favor, against 10 opposed, while 11 members abstained from voting.

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka emphasized that this repeal reinstates the necessary authority to professional bodies while ensuring that immigration remains engaged in the issuance of work permits. He highlighted that the change is beneficial for public safety and allows foreign professionals continued access to work opportunities within Fiji. Rabuka stated, “We’re just restoring proper statutory authority to professional bodies with a role for immigration on issuing work permits, transparent coordination through existing ministries, stronger accountability, and less duplication.”

Despite this, some concerns were raised regarding the potential repercussions of the repeal. Opposition MP Alvick Maharaj warned that eliminating the act without an effective replacement could exacerbate the existing shortage of skilled professionals in Fiji. He cautioned, “Repealing this act with an immediate robust replacement mechanism will only accelerate the current brain drain and suppress foreign investment.”

On the other hand, Immigration Minister Viliame Naupoto defended the repeal, insisting that it was necessary to maintain the integrity of Fiji’s immigration system. He pointed out that certain applicants previously cleared by the committee failed to meet essential requirements. Naupoto remarked, “This repeal is necessary, amongst other reasons, to protect the integrity of Fiji’s immigration system, to strengthen national security and ensure clear and consistent processing of all foreign professionals entering our country.”

The primary objective of the repeal is to simplify the process for approving skilled professionals, uphold public safety standards, and ensure that pathways for foreign workers comply with existing immigration and professional regulations. The government remains optimistic that the new framework will benefit Fiji by streamlining the entry of foreign professionals while preserving national interests.