From March 2025, several changes will be introduced to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) and the median wage framework. These adjustments, part of broader reforms announced in December 2024, aim to provide more flexibility and cater to the unique needs of businesses in various sectors and regions.
What are the key changes?
Median Wage Requirement Removal
Starting March 10, 2025, employers hiring through the AEWV or seasonal Specific Purpose Work Visas (SPWV) will no longer need to meet a median wage threshold, except for the New Zealand minimum wage (currently NZD $23.15 per hour). Employers must still ensure they offer pay comparable to New Zealand workers in similar roles. The sector-specific wage exemptions will also be phased out, simplifying visa conditions.
Reduced Work Experience Requirement
The work experience requirement for migrants will drop from 3 years to 2 years. Employers will still need to confirm applicants meet this threshold.
Changes to MSD Engagement Requirements
Employers will no longer be required to engage with the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) / Work and Income (WINZ) directly. Instead, they will need to declare in good faith that they have advertised lower-skilled roles (ANZSCO skill levels 4 and 5) and interviewed candidates from the local labor market.
Visa Duration Increase for Lower-Skilled Workers
The duration for AEWV holders in lower-skilled jobs (ANZSCO Levels 4 and 5) will extend to 3 years, effective March 10, 2025.
Higher Income Threshold for Dependent Children
The income threshold for supporting dependent children will increase to NZD $55,844, effective March 10, 2025.
Reclassification of Certain Occupations
Some jobs will be reclassified to a higher ANZSCO skill level, including positions such as cooks and nannies, ensuring skilled workers are retained in critical sectors.
From 10 March 2025 the following occupations will be treated as ANZSCO skill level 3 to align with their skill level in the upcoming National Occupation List:
- Cook (351411)
- Pet groomer (361113)
- Kennel hand (361115)
- Nanny (421113)
- Fitness instructor (452111)
- Scaffolder (821712)
- Slaughterer (831212)
These 4 other roles will also now be recognised as ANZSCO skill level 3 as long as the employer has specified that the job needs either 3 years of work experience or a level 4 qualification, as part of the job check.
- Agricultural and horticultural mobile plant operator (721111)
- Excavator operator (721214)
- Forklift driver (721311)
- Mobile plant operators not elsewhere classified (721999)
Median Wage Adjustments
From February 28, 2025, AEWV holders sponsoring a partner will need to meet a new wage threshold of NZD $26.85 per hour.
The median wage for sponsors of parents under the Parent Category will adjust to NZD $33.56 per hour from the same date.
These changes reflect updates to the wage statistics, ensuring the financial stability of migrant families.
