New Zealand’s median wage is set to increase in February 2024, bringing changes for some visa categories and sector agreements. Here’s a guide to understanding what’s changing and how it will affect specific visas.
The big change:
The median wage will rise from NZD$29.66 to NZD$31.61 per hour in February 2024.
Who’s Affected?
This increase applies to the wage thresholds for several visa categories, including:
Onshore Skilled Migrant Category Residence Visa
This category requires applicants to meet a minimum income threshold based on the median wage. The increase will raise this threshold accordingly, potentially benefiting skilled migrants seeking permanent residency.
Green List Straight to Residence Visa and Work to Residence roles
The Green List identifies in-demand occupations with designated wage thresholds linked to the median wage. These thresholds will automatically adjust with the February 2024 increase, potentially affecting the eligibility of some Green List applicants.
Parent Resident Visa
People wanting to sponsor their parents on a Parent Resident Visa must earn over the median wage.
Green List Specifics:
Some Green List roles have wage thresholds based on a percentage of the median wage. These will automatically increase with the new median wage. For example, Auditors currently require a wage of NZD$38.56, which will go up to NZD$41.09.
Exclusion from Increase:
Importantly, this increase does not apply to Accredited Employer Work Visas (AEWVs). The existing wage rates will remain in place:
- NZD$29.66 per hour for most AEWVs
- NZD$26.16 per hour for Care Workforce Sector Agreement roles
This change signifies a positive step towards aligning visa requirements with evolving market wages. It is crucial for potential applicants and employers to be aware of these adjustments and ensure compliance with updated regulations.
For any questions regarding this update or any further immigration matters, please contact Arno at Arno.Nothnagel@absoluteimmigration.com
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