The New Zealand government has unveiled a series of reforms to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) program, aiming to address skill shortages and streamline the employment of migrant workers. These changes are set to be implemented in four stages throughout 2025, commencing in January.
Key Reforms:
- Removal of Median Wage Requirement: The existing median wage threshold for AEWV and Specific Purpose Work Visa (SPWV) roles will be eliminated. Employers are now required to offer the market rate for positions based on the role and location. This adjustment does not impact current employment agreements or the wage criteria for residence applications.
- Updated Earnings Threshold for Family Accompaniment: To bring dependent children to New Zealand, AEWV holders must now earn a minimum of NZD 55,844 annually, alongside meeting other specified criteria. This threshold has been revised for the first time since 2019.
- Reduced Experience Requirement: The mandatory work experience for migrants has been decreased from three years to two, facilitating a quicker pathway for skilled workers to enter the New Zealand labor market.
- Introduction of Seasonal Worker Pathways: Starting November 2025, two new visa pathways will be available for seasonal workers:
- A three-year multi-entry visa for experienced seasonal workers.
- A seven-month single-entry visa for lesser-skilled seasonal workers.
Existing temporary seasonal pathways will remain operational until these new options are introduced.
- Extended Visa Duration for Lower-Skilled Roles: The visa duration for AEWV holders in roles classified as skill level 4 or 5 under the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO) will be extended to three years, aligning with the maximum continuous stay permitted.
- Amended Work and Income Engagement Requirements: Employers must now declare that they have genuinely advertised ANZSCO skill level 4 or 5 positions with Work and Income and have considered suitable candidates. The previous 21-day engagement period has been removed, allowing for more flexibility in the recruitment process.
- Enhanced Interim Work Rights: Effective April 2025, interim work rights will be extended to AEWV applicants transitioning from any work visa type or from student visas that permit employment during term time, ensuring continuity of employment during visa processing.
- Elimination of Mandatory Online Modules: As of January 27, 2025, the requirement for employers to complete Employment New Zealand online modules will be discontinued. Instead, employers and workers will be directed to relevant online resources outlining employment rights and obligations.
- Adjusted Domestic Workforce Threshold for Construction Roles: The domestic workforce threshold for certain construction roles will be reduced from 35% to 15%, easing the hiring process for employers in the construction industry.
These reforms are designed to make it more straightforward for employers to fill skill gaps while ensuring fair employment practices and supporting New Zealand’s economic growth. Detailed information about the changes will be made available in early 2025.