New Zealand is rolling out major updates to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) system, making it easier for businesses to hire workers and for skilled migrants to contribute to the economy. These changes aim to reduce red tape, attract talent, and ensure the system works better for everyone.
Goodbye to the Median Wage Requirement!
Big news for employers, wage thresholds for AEWV roles are being removed! Employers can now focus on offering fair market rates for the role and location. This means greater flexibility in hiring while keeping pay competitive. Importantly, wages for residence applications remain unchanged.
New Earnings Requirement for Bringing Family
Want to bring your children with you? AEWV holders will need to earn at least NZ$55,844 per year, a figure that hasn’t changed since 2019. This ensures families can settle in comfortably and sustainably.
Less Work Experience, More Opportunity
The work experience requirement for AEWV applicants is dropping from 3 years to 2 years. This means skilled workers can take up opportunities faster, helping employers fill urgent roles and easing skill shortages.
Exciting Seasonal Worker Pathways Launching in 2025!
Starting November 2025, two exciting new visa options will open for seasonal workers:
- A 3-Year Multi-Entry Visa for experienced seasonal workers.
- A 7-Month Single-Entry Visa for less-experienced seasonal roles.
The current seasonal visa options will stay in place until these new pathways take off. These changes will make it easier for seasonal workers to plan long-term and for businesses to meet demand.
Longer Visas for Lower-Skilled Jobs
Great news for those in ANZSCO Level 4 and 5 roles, visa durations are increasing! Instead of 2 years (plus 1 extra year), AEWV holders can now stay for a full 3 years. For current visa holders, there’s an option to extend for an additional year if requirements are met.
This change provides more certainty for workers and employers alike.
Simpler MSD Job Advertising Rules
Employers can say goodbye to strict processes with the Ministry of Social Development (MSD). The new system will be declaration-based. Employers simply need to confirm they’ve advertised the role and considered suitable candidates through MSD.
This flexible approach put the trust back into employers while keeping opportunities open for local workers.
Extended Work Rights for Interim Visa Holders (Starting April 2025)
Migrants applying for an AEWV can now keep working while their visa is being processed. Whether you’re moving from another work visa or a student visa with work rights, you’ll enjoy uninterrupted employment. This reduces stress for workers and helps businesses keep operations running smoothly.
No More Online Modules for Employers! (Starting January 2025)
Employers will no longer need to complete Employment New Zealand online modules. Instead, Immigration New Zealand will share clear, easy-to-access resources on employment rights and obligations during the immigration process. It’s simpler, quicker, and more practical.
Easier Hiring for Construction Roles
For employers in construction, the domestic workforce requirement is being lowered from 35% to 15%. This change makes it much easier to hire the migrant workers you need while still supporting local employment.
Easier hiring for construction roles
For employers in construction, the domestic workforce requirement is being lowered from 35% to 15%. This change makes it much easier to hire the migrant workers you need while still supporting local employment.
More details will be released in early 2025! These changes mark a huge step forward, making the AEWV system simpler, fairer, and more responsive to New Zealand’s workforce needs.
Woburn International is committed to helping you understand these changes, and how they may affect you now or in the future.
Contact us
If you would like to know more about your options in New Zealand, email us at services@woburn.co.nz
Woburn International is New Zealand’s leading specialist in NZ immigration, skilled migrant placements, relocation, emigration, international remuneration and cultural awareness. Contact us to find out how we can help you move to New Zealand.
