{"id":54127,"date":"2024-12-17T16:20:32","date_gmt":"2024-12-17T05:20:32","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/absoluteimmigration.com\/nz\/?p=54127"},"modified":"2024-12-17T16:23:23","modified_gmt":"2024-12-17T05:23:23","slug":"aewv-2025-reforms-visa-processes","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/absoluteimmigration.com\/nz\/news\/aewv-2025-reforms-visa-processes\/","title":{"rendered":"AEWV 2025 reforms streamline New Zealand’s work visa processes"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t

Photo credit:@\nfreepik<\/a><\/h2>\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

In 2025, the New Zealand Government will implement significant reforms to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) scheme. These changes aim to address skill shortages, streamline immigration processes, and support employers in filling critical roles.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

Streamlining employer requirements for AEWV applications<\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/h4>\n

Starting January 27, 2025, the New Zealand Government will simplify employer obligations under the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) scheme. Employers will no longer need to complete Employment New Zealand\u2019s online modules or pay employees for module completion. This change applies to Recognised Seasonal Employers as well. Furthermore, the percentage of domestic workforce required in certain construction roles will drop from 35% to 15%, enabling more streamlined recruitment of skilled overseas workers.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Removing wage thresholds for migrant workers<\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/h4>\n

From March 2025, wage thresholds for all AEWV roles will be eliminated. Employers will still be required to advertise positions and offer salaries that reflect the market rate for the role and location. This reform does not affect existing employment agreements or the wages that AEWV workers must earn to apply for residence. By removing wage barriers, the reform supports businesses in attracting the right talent while adhering to fair market standards.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Reducing work experience requirements<\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/h4>\n

To make the AEWV process more accessible, the required work experience for migrants will be reduced from three years to two years in March 2025. This change addresses feedback from stakeholders and balances the need for skilled labour with practical considerations for migrants seeking opportunities in New Zealand.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Simplifying job check requirements<\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/h4>\n

From March 2025, employers will no longer need to provide evidence of Work and Income engagement during the job check process. Instead, they will need to declare that they have advertised ANZSCO skill level 4 or 5 jobs with Work and Income and considered suitable candidates. This adjustment removes the rigid 21-day timeframe previously required, making the hiring process more flexible for employers.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Extending visa duration for lower-skilled roles<\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/h4>\n

Migrants employed in lower-skilled roles under the AEWV will benefit from an increased visa duration of three years starting in March 2025. This adjustment aligns with the maximum continuous stay allowed under the AEWV framework. Migrants currently on two-year visas will also be eligible to apply for an additional year if they meet the necessary requirements.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Updating earnings thresholds for migrant families<\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/h4>\n

Effective March 2025, migrants intending to bring their children to New Zealand will need to earn at least NZD 55,844 annually. This threshold has remained unchanged since 2019 and ensures that families are adequately supported while residing in New Zealand.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Enhancing interim visa work rights<\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/h4>\n

From April 2025, interim visa provisions will expand to allow AEWV applicants, including those transitioning from student or other work visas, to work while their applications are processed. This change provides greater employment stability for migrants and ensures that businesses do not face disruptions during application transitions.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Introducing new pathways for seasonal workers<\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/h4>\n

In November 2025, two new visa pathways will be launched for seasonal workers:<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n