New Zealand Announces Major Visa Fee Hikes and New Rules for Migrant Workers

The New Zealand Government has unveiled a substantial increase in visa fees and levies, scheduled to take effect on October 1, 2024. This adjustment will affect nearly all visa categories, as the government seeks to align the charges more closely with the actual costs of processing visa applications.

Despite the fee hike, New Zealand remains dedicated to supporting its Pacific neighbors by continuing to offer subsidized fees for applicants from Pacific Island countries.

Visa Fees Remain Competitive Despite Increases

Immigration Minister Erica Stanford highlighted that, even with the impending fee adjustments, New Zealand’s visa fees will remain competitive compared to those of other countries such as Australia and the United Kingdom.

“Our aim is to ensure that the visa processing system is sustainable and reflects the true costs while still being fair and accessible,” Minister Stanford stated.

Major Changes in Student Visa Fees and Levies

The New Zealand Government has introduced notable changes to visa fees and levies, particularly for student visa applicants. Applicants from regions classified as Band C, which include much of the world outside the Pacific and specific other regions, will experience a significant fee increase.

The student visa fee will rise from NZD 300 to NZD 485. This increase aims to better reflect the actual costs of processing and managing these applications.

On the other hand, the post-study work visa fee will decrease, dropping from NZD 490 to NZD 320. However, this reduction is coupled with a substantial rise in the immigration levy. The levy for student visas will increase from NZD 95 to NZD 265.

Meanwhile, the levy for post-study work visas will see a dramatic jump from NZD 210 to NZD 1,350. These changes underscore the government’s focus on ensuring the sustainability of New Zealand’s immigration system.

Student Visa and Post-Study Work Visa Fees and Levies

Adjustments to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)

The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) is also undergoing fee and levy changes. The AEWV fee will decrease slightly, from NZD 540 to NZD 480. However, the immigration levy associated with this visa will increase significantly. The levy will rise from NZD 210 to NZD 1,060.

These changes emphasize the government’s commitment to prioritizing local workers while allowing employers to address genuine labor shortages by hiring skilled migrants.

Tougher Rules for Low-Skilled Migrant Workers

To further regulate the employment of migrant workers, the government has introduced new requirements for the AEWV scheme. A notable change is the mandatory English language test for migrants applying for low-skilled roles (ANZSCO levels 4 and 5).

Additionally, a minimum skill and work experience threshold will be implemented for most AEWV positions.

Reduced Maximum Continuous Stay for Lower-Skilled Roles

Another critical update is the reduction in the maximum continuous stay for most roles at ANZSCO levels 4 and 5. Previously, migrants in these roles could stay for up to five years; however, this period will be reduced to three years under the new regulations.

This change is intended to further regulate the employment of migrant workers and ensure that New Zealand’s labor market needs are met without compromising opportunities for local workers.

Final Words

These changes are expected to have a significant impact on individuals and businesses planning to migrate or employ migrant workers in New Zealand. It remains to be seen how these changes will affect the country’s immigration landscape and its economy.