Photo credit: Tourism NZ Visual Library
In December 2024, the New Zealand Government announced significant reforms to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) scheme to provide more flexibility for businesses while ensuring fair conditions for migrant workers.
The second phase of these changes will take effect from 10 March 2025 and will impact employer requirements, wage settings, and visa conditions.
Key changes effective from 10 March 2025
Removal of median wage requirement for AEWV and Specific Purpose Work Visa (SPWV)
Employers hiring under the AEWV and seasonal SPWV policies will no longer be required to meet the median wage threshold. Instead:
- Employers must pay at least the New Zealand minimum wage (NZD $23.50 per hour from 1 April 2025).
- Migrant workers must be paid at the market rate for their role, ensuring fair pay in comparison to local workers.
- Sector agreements that previously exempted certain industries from the median wage requirement will be removed. However, sector agreements that offer residence pathways will remain unchanged.
Impact: employers will have greater flexibility in hiring but must ensure migrant workers receive equitable wages.
Reduced work experience requirement
The work experience requirement for AEWV applicants will be reduced from 3 years to 2 years. Employers must:
- Verify that applicants meet the new 2-year experience threshold.
- Ensure migrants provide evidence of their relevant work experience.
Impact: this change broadens the talent pool, making it easier for businesses to recruit skilled workers.
Simplified employer engagement with the Ministry of Social Development (MSD)
Employers hiring for ANZSCO skill level 4 and 5 roles will need to:
- Declare that they have advertised roles with MSD and interviewed suitable candidates.
- Retain evidence of their recruitment efforts, which may be requested later.
- No longer provide evidence of engagement with MSD at the Job Check stage.
Impact: this streamlines recruitment processes while maintaining fairness in hiring practices.
Increased visa duration for ANZSCO Level 4 and 5 roles
The maximum visa duration for AEWV holders in ANZSCO skill level 4 and 5 roles will be extended to 3 years to align with the maximum continuous stay policy. Those currently on 2-year AEWVs will be able to apply for an additional year.
Impact: migrants in these roles can stay longer, reducing turnover and recruitment costs for employers.
Higher income threshold for supporting dependent children
From 10 March 2025, migrants must earn at least NZD $55,844 per year to support dependent children, an increase from NZD $43,322.76.
The previous threshold remains valid for children who held or applied for a visa before 10 March 2025.
Impact: this ensures migrants have adequate financial means to support their families while maintaining stability for existing visa holders.
Reclassification of ANZSCO roles
Certain ANZSCO Level 4 and 5 roles will now be classified as Level 3, allowing access to improved work and residence pathways. These roles include:
- Cook (351411)
- Pet Groomer (361113)
- Kennel Hand (361115)
- Nanny (421113)
- Fitness Instructor (452111)
- Scaffolder (821712)
- Slaughterer (831212)
Additionally, the following roles will be classified as Level 3 if the employer specifies that they require 3 years of work experience or a Level 4 qualification:
- Agricultural and Horticultural Mobile Plant Operator (721111)
- Excavator Operator (721214)
- Forklift Driver (721311)
- Mobile Plant Operators Not Elsewhere Classified (721999)
Impact: this reclassification benefits both employers and skilled workers by improving career progression opportunities.
Additional changes in April 2025
Interim visa work rights expansion
From April 2025, interim visa holders awaiting AEWV processing will gain more work rights, including:
- Work rights for AEWV applicants applying from a work visa or student visa with work permissions.
- Time spent on an interim visa will count toward their maximum continuous stay and work experience requirements for residence pathways.
What these changes mean for employers and migrant workers
These changes are designed to make the AEWV scheme more adaptable to workforce needs while ensuring fair wages and conditions for migrant workers. Employers must stay informed about these updates to ensure compliance and optimise recruitment strategies.
For expert guidance on how these changes impact your business or visa application, contact Absolute Immigration NZ today at aisupport@absoluteimmigration.com.
