Important Changes to New Zealand’s Work Visa Rules

Big changes are coming to New Zealand’s Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) and wage rules. Starting in March 2025, these updates aim to make it easier for businesses to hire workers and offer more flexibility for immigrants.

What Are the Main Changes?

1. No More Median Wage Requirement From March 10, 2025, employers hiring through the AEWV or seasonal work visas will no longer need to meet the median wage. Instead, they must pay at least the New Zealand minimum wage (currently NZD $23.15 per hour) and ensure fair pay compared to local workers. Special wage exemptions for specific industries will also be removed to simplify the process.
2. Less Work Experience Needed The required work experience for AEWV applicants will decrease from 3 years to 2 years. Employers will still need to confirm that applicants meet this requirement.
3. Easier Job Advertising Rules Employers must still advertise lower-skilled jobs with Work and Income and interview suitable candidates. However, they no longer need to provide evidence of these efforts when applying for a job check. They should keep records in case they are asked later.
4. Longer Visa Duration for Lower-Skilled Workers Workers in lower-skilled jobs (ANZSCO Levels 4 and 5) will soon be able to stay in New Zealand for up to 3 years, starting March 10, 2025.
5. Higher Income Requirement for Supporting Children From March 10, 2025, the income required to support dependent children will rise to NZD $55,844.
6. Job Reclassification for Skilled Roles Certain jobs will be reclassified to a higher skill level, making it easier for workers in these roles to stay in New Zealand. The following occupations will be recognized as higher-skilled (ANZSCO level 3) starting March 10, 2025:

• Cook
• Pet groomer
• Kennel hand
• Nanny
• Fitness instructor
• Scaffolder
• Slaughterer

Other roles, like agricultural machine operators and forklift drivers, will also be upgraded if the employer specifies that the job requires 3 years of experience or a Level 4 qualification.

New Wage Thresholds From February 28, 2025:

• AEWV holders who want to sponsor a partner will need to earn at least NZD $26.85 per hour.
• The median wage for sponsoring a parent under the Parent Category will increase to NZD $33.56 per hour.

These changes are designed to keep wages fair and ensure the financial stability of migrant families.

What Does This Mean for You? If you’re an employer or a migrant worker, these changes could make it easier to apply for visas and stay in New Zealand. Keep these updates in mind when planning your next steps.