.png)
The New Zealand Government has announced important updates to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV). These changes aim to make it easier for employers to hire workers and fill skill gaps. Here’s everything you need to know, explained in simple terms.
When Will the Changes Happen?
The changes will be rolled out in four stages throughout 2025, starting in January. One of the biggest updates, a redesign of the "Job Check" process, will start in July 2025. This will make it faster and easier for low-risk employers to get jobs approved for AEWV workers.
Key Changes to the AEWV
1. No More Median Wage Requirement
The rule that AEWV jobs must meet a median wage threshold is being removed. Instead, employers must offer workers a "market rate" based on the job and location. This change does not affect existing contracts or the wage requirements for AEWV workers seeking residence.
2. New Earnings Requirement to Bring Family
To bring children to New Zealand, AEWV workers will now need to earn at least NZ$55,844 per year. This amount has stayed the same since 2019, but it will now be required for new AEWV holders.
3. Less Experience Required for Migrants
Migrants will only need 2 years of work experience instead of 3. This change aims to address skills shortages while ensuring migrants are still qualified for their roles.
4. New Seasonal Worker Pathways
Starting in November 2025, there will be two new visa options for seasonal workers:
- 3-year multi-entry visa for experienced workers.
- 7-month single-entry visa for less-experienced workers.
The existing seasonal worker pathways will stay in place until then.
5. Longer Visa Duration for Certain Roles
Workers in jobs classified as ANZSCO Level 4 or 5 can now get a visa for 3 years (up from 2 years, with an option for 1 more year). This new rule makes it easier for these workers to stay in New Zealand for the maximum allowed time. Workers with a 2-year visa can also apply for an extra 1-year visa if they meet the requirements.
6. Easier Process with Ministry of Social Development (MSD)
Employers hiring for jobs at ANZSCO Level 4 or 5 will now only need to declare that they’ve advertised the job and interviewed potential candidates. This is simpler than the previous system, which required more formal engagement with MSD. The 21-day wait period for job advertising will also be removed.
7. Greater Work Rights for Interim Visas
Starting in April 2025, people on an Interim Visa will have more work rights. This means if someone applies for an AEWV while on another type of work visa (or a student visa that allows part-time work), they can still work while waiting for their AEWV to be approved.
8. No More Mandatory Online Training for Employers
From January 27, 2025, accredited employers and Recognised Seasonal Employers (RSE) will no longer need to complete Employment New Zealand’s online training modules. Instead, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) will provide links to useful information about employment rights at key points in the immigration process.
9. Lower Hiring Requirements for Construction Roles
Employers hiring for certain construction roles will see the "domestic workforce threshold" reduced from 35% to 15%. This makes it easier for employers to fill roles with AEWV workers.
What Do These Changes Mean for You?
If you're an employer, these updates will make it easier to fill key roles, hire skilled workers, and manage the AEWV process with fewer delays. If you're a migrant, the changes provide new opportunities for visas and more flexibility while your AEWV application is being processed.
More details about these changes will be shared in early 2025. If you have questions or need advice on how these changes affect you, stay connected with NZ Immigration Help Service (NZIHS) for the latest updates and expert guidance.
Source: Immigration New Zealand
Comments