Major Changes Coming to New Zealand Work Visas: What You Need to Know

New Zealand is set to implement significant changes to its work visa programmes in early 2025, making it easier for employers to hire overseas workers while ensuring proper support for migrant families. Here's everything you need to know about these important updates.

Farewell to Median Wage Requirements

From 10 March 2025, one of the biggest changes will be the removal of the median wage requirement for the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) and Seasonal Specific Purpose Work Visa (SPWV). Employers will only need to ensure they're paying at least the minimum wage (NZD $23.50 from 1 April 2025) and matching the market rate for New Zealand workers in similar roles.

Reduced Work Experience Requirements

Good news for overseas workers - the required work experience is dropping from three years to two years. This change makes it easier for skilled workers to qualify while still maintaining appropriate standards to prevent exploitation.

Extended Visa Duration for Lower-Skilled Workers

Workers in ANZSCO Level 4 and 5 roles will now be eligible for three-year visas, matching their maximum continuous stay period in New Zealand. This provides more stability for both workers and employers in these categories.

Changes to Family Support Requirements

For those planning to bring family members:

• The income threshold for supporting dependent children is increasing to NZD $55,844 annually

• Partners of AEWV holders will need the primary visa holder to earn at least NZD $26.85 per hour (from 28 February 2025)

• Existing dependents won't be affected if they already hold visas or applied before 10 March 2025

Simplified Process for Employers

The Ministry of Social Development (MSD) engagement process is becoming more streamlined. Employers will now only need to declare in good faith that they've advertised lower-skilled roles with MSD and interviewed suitable candidates. While evidence should be kept on file, the process is becoming less bureaucratic.

Recognition of Additional Skilled Roles

Several occupations are being upgraded to ANZSCO skill level 3, including:

• Cooks

• Pet groomers

• Nannies

• Fitness instructors

• Scaffolders

• Various mobile plant operators (with specific experience or qualification requirements)

What's Next?

April 2025 will bring additional changes for interim visa holders, including:

• Expanded work rights while awaiting AEWV application outcomes

• Recognition of interim visa work time towards continuous stay calculations

• Inclusion of interim visa work experience for work-to-residence pathways

Important Dates to Remember

• 28 February 2025: New median wage rates take effect

• 10 March 2025: Most major AEWV changes commence

• 1 April 2025: Minimum wage increases to NZD $23.50

What This Means for You

These changes represent a significant shift towards a more flexible immigration system that better serves both employers and migrant workers. Whether you're an employer looking to hire overseas talent or a migrant worker planning your move to New Zealand, these updates provide more opportunities and clearer pathways for work and residency.

Remember to check the Immigration New Zealand website for the most up-to-date information and specific details relevant to your situation.