New Zealand Revises Work Visa Rules: No Wage Thresholds, Lower Experience

New Zealand is taking significant steps to tackle its skilled labour shortages with major reforms to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) and related processes. These changes aim to streamline hiring procedures, address skill gaps, and support employers in meeting workforce demands. Here’s everything you need to know:

Key Changes to the AEWV Program

The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) program has undergone significant changes, including the removal of the median wage threshold, reduced experience requirements for skilled migrants, and new pathways for seasonal workers.

1. Removal of Median Wage Threshold

Starting in March 2025, New Zealand will eliminate the median wage threshold for AEWV and Specific Purpose Work Visa (SPWV) roles. While employers must still offer market-rate salaries based on the job’s location and position, this update simplifies hiring procedures. It’s important to note that existing employment agreements and residence permit wage requirements remain unchanged.

2. New Earnings Threshold for Migrants

To bring children to New Zealand, AEWV migrants must meet a revised annual earnings threshold of NZ$55,844. This figure, unchanged since 2019, serves as a benchmark for applicants who wish to support their dependents while working in the country.

3. Reduced Experience Requirements

The government is lowering the required work experience for AEWV applicants from three years to two. This change allows a broader pool of skilled workers to qualify, making it easier for employers to fill critical positions.

4. Seasonal Visa Pathways

In November 2025, New Zealand will launch two new visa pathways for seasonal workers:

• 3-Year Multi-Entry Visa: Designed for experienced workers.
• 7-Month Single-Entry Visa: Targeted at lesser-skilled seasonal workers.

The existing temporary seasonal pathways will remain available until these options are introduced.

5. Extended Visa Duration for Low-Skill Roles

For jobs classified as ANZSCO skill level 4 or 5, the visa duration for AEWV holders will increase from two years (plus a one-year extension) to a continuous three-year period. This aligns with the maximum stay permitted for such workers. Current visa holders with a two-year permit may apply for an additional one-year AEWV if they meet the requirements.

Streamlining the Immigration Process

The New Zealand government is streamlining the immigration process by revising the Job Check procedure, reducing processing times, and simplifying the Work and Income engagement requirements.

1. Revised Job Check Procedure

Immigration New Zealand (INZ) is streamlining the Job Check process, aiming to reduce processing times for low-risk employers. This will make it easier for businesses to navigate the immigration system and fill vacancies more quickly.

2. Reduced Processing Times

INZ has already made significant progress in reducing processing times for Employer Accreditation, with the average time decreasing from 62 days to just 14 days.

Supporting Migrant Workers

The government of New Zealand is supporting migrant workers by extending interim work rights during visa processing and simplifying the Work and Income engagement requirements.

1. Interim Work Rights Expansion

From April 2025, interim work rights will be extended to AEWV applicants transitioning from other work or student visas. This ensures that migrants can maintain employment while their applications are processed.

2. Amendments to Work and Income Engagement

Employers hiring for ANZSCO skill level 4 or 5 roles will no longer face a mandatory 21-day engagement timeframe with Work and Income. Instead, a declaration-based system will require employers to confirm that they have advertised jobs in good faith and interviewed suitable candidates.

Implementation Timeline

These reforms will be introduced in four phases beginning in January 2025. To ensure compliance, employers and migrants should stay updated on the specific timelines and requirements for each stage.

Conclusion

New Zealand’s updated visa policies reflect a commitment to balancing labour market needs with streamlined processes for employers and workers. By lowering barriers and introducing new pathways, the country aims to attract a diverse and skilled workforce to address critical shortages.