New Zealand has announced major changes to its visa and employment policies to address labor shortages and simplify immigration processes.
These updates are designed to benefit both workers and employers by easing requirements and offering more flexible pathways for migration.
Key Updates to New Zealand’s Visa and Immigration Rules
Learn about the latest changes to New Zealand immigration policies, including wage threshold removal, reduced work experience requirements, extended visa durations, and more.
1. Removal of Median Wage Requirement
The wage threshold for the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) and Specific Purpose Work Visa (SPWV) roles has been eliminated. Employers must still advertise job openings and pay employees market-competitive rates based on their position and location.
2. Earnings Threshold for Migrants with Dependents
To bring children to New Zealand, AEWV holders must earn at least NZ$55,844 annually. This unchanged threshold ensures financial stability for families relocating to New Zealand.
3. Lower Experience Requirements
The minimum work experience for migrants has been reduced from three years to two years. This change ensures adequate skill levels while addressing the country’s urgent labor needs.
4. Seasonal Worker Pathways
New Zealand introduces two pathways to meet seasonal labor demands:
- Three-Year Multi-Entry Visa for experienced workers.
- Seven-Month Single-Entry Visa for lower-skilled workers.
Existing seasonal worker programs will remain active until these new changes take effect.
5. Extended Visa Duration for Low-Skilled Jobs
For skill levels 4 and 5 (under ANZSCO classification), AEWV visa durations have been extended to three years. Workers with existing two-year visas can now apply for a one-year extension if they meet eligibility criteria.
6. Flexible Work and Income Engagement for Employers
Employers hiring for skill level 4 or 5 jobs must demonstrate good-faith efforts to recruit locally. The mandatory 21-day advertising period has been removed, allowing a more flexible recruitment process.
7. Improved Interim Work Rights for Migrants
Starting April 2025, interim work rights will apply to AEWV applicants transitioning from any work visa type or a student visa with work privileges. This ensures continued employment while waiting for visa approvals.
8. Simplified Employer Compliance
From January 27, 2025, accredited employers and Recognised Seasonal Employers (RSE) will no longer be required to complete Employment New Zealand’s training modules.
Immigration New Zealand will provide updated resources on worker rights and employer responsibilities.
9. Reduced Workforce Threshold for Construction Roles
For certain construction sectors, the domestic workforce threshold has been lowered from 35% to 15%. This makes it easier to address labor shortages in critical construction roles.
