New Zealand Introduces Major Updates to Accredited Employer Work Visa in 2025
The New Zealand government has unveiled a series of significant updates to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) program, set to roll out in stages throughout 2025. These changes are designed to support employers, address skill shortages, and ensure fairness for migrant workers.
Key Updates
The updates will be introduced in four phases over the year. Here’s what’s changing:
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- Accredited employers and recognized seasonal employers will no longer need to complete Employment New Zealand’s online training modules. Migrants will also no longer need paid time to complete them.
In March 2025
Five key updates will take effect:
- Median wage threshold removed: The median wage requirement for all AEWV roles will be eliminated. However, employers must still pay the market rate for the specific job and location. Existing employment agreements won’t be affected.
- Income threshold for dependents adjusted: AEWV holders will need to earn at least NZ$55,844 (around US$31,595) annually to support dependent children, alongside meeting other criteria.
- Reduced work experience requirement: The minimum relevant work experience for AEWV applicants will drop from three years to two years.
- Extended visa duration: ANZSCO Level 4 or 5 AEWV holders will see their visa duration extended to three years.
- Streamlined employer engagement: The current requirement for employers to engage with the Work and Income department will become a declaration-based process, removing the existing 21-day timeframe.
Additional Changes Coming in 2025
- April: Interim visa holders will gain enhanced work rights.
- Mid-year: A new job-check process will launch, designed to streamline applications for low-risk employers and reduce processing times.
- November: Two new visa pathways will be introduced for seasonal workers.
What This Means
These changes aim to balance the needs of employers and migrant workers. By removing the median wage threshold, reducing experience requirements, and offering longer visa durations, New Zealand is making it easier for businesses to address skill shortages. At the same time, the updated requirements ensure that migrants are skilled and fairly compensated.
What’s Next
More details are expected in early 2025, so employers and workers should stay tuned for further updates. These revisions reflect the government’s commitment to creating a system that works better for everyone — employers, workers, and their families alike.