Latest News

Keep up to date with the latest immigration trends and policy changes.

The recent reforms to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) scheme in New Zealand have now been implemented, bringing several significant updates.

 From 10 March 2025:

  • Wage Requirements: Employers are no longer required to meet specific wage thresholds. They must pay at least the New Zealand minimum wage and the market rate for the role, though wages in existing agreements remain unchanged.

  • Work Experience: Employers can now hire migrants with 2 years of relevant work experience, down from the previous requirement of 3 years.

  • Job Advertising: Employers must confirm that lower-skilled roles were advertised with Work and Income and that suitable candidates were interviewed. While they must keep this evidence for potential future requests, it is no longer required during the Job Check process.

  • AEWV Duration: The duration for ANZSCO level 4 and 5 roles has been extended to 3 years, aligning with the maximum continuous stay. Migrants holding 2-year visas can now apply for an additional year.

  • Income for Dependent Children: Migrants must now earn at least NZD $55,844 annually to support dependent children. The previous income threshold will apply for children holding or applying for a visa before March 10, 2025.

  • Role Reclassification: Certain ANZSCO level 4 and 5 roles have been reclassified as ANZSCO level 3.

From February 28, 2025:

  • The wage threshold for AEWV holders supporting open work rights for partners has increased from NZD $25.29 to NZD $26.85 per hour.

  • The income threshold for the Parent Category has risen from NZD $98,623.20 to NZD $104,707.20.

In April, further changes will be made to work rights for individuals on interim visas awaiting the outcome of an AEWV application. These changes include:

  • Allowing AEWV applicants to have interim work rights if they apply while holding any work visa or a student visa that permits work during term time.

  • Counting time spent on an interim visa with work rights toward the total continuous stay under the AEWV and for gaining work experience for work-to-residence pathways.