New Zealand removes 'sex work' from skills list for visa hopefuls

New Zealand has removed prostitution from its list of employment skills for would-be immigrants.

The removal of the listing was to "avoid further confusion" that people could get a visa as skilled prostitutes, Immigration New Zealand said.

According to the Prostitution Reform Act, 2003, only the country's citizens and residents are allowed to "legally work in the sex industry".

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The website had previously indicated that sex work/escort is a skilled employment and applicants could claim points if they were paid at or above $36.44 per hour, had a recognised qualification or at least three years of relevant work experience.

It defined a sex worker or escort as someone who provided clients with sexual services or social companionship.