AEWV Wage Thresholds Changing from 18 August 2025

Immigration New Zealand has announced important changes to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) wage thresholds that will impact both employers and migrant workers, particularly those seeking longer AEWV durations or Labour Market Test (LMT) exemptions.

What’s Changing?

INZ is updating AEWV wage thresholds to reflect the new median wage of $33.56/hour (announced June 2024). This means:

1. Twice the median wage ($67.12/hour) → Exempt from the Labour Market Test (LMT) and minimum skills assessment.

2. 1.5 times the median wage ($50.34/hour) → Eligible for the maximum 5-year continuous AEWV stay.

These thresholds take effect from 18 August 2025 and will apply to new AEWV applications lodged on or after this date.

What This Means for Employers:

1. Hiring highly skilled or senior candidates just got easier — no LMT required if they earn $67.12/hour or more.

2. Workers earning $50.34/hour+ can stay for a full 5 years without needing to renew or transition early.

3. Start reviewing and budgeting for salary bands now to future-proof your hiring strategy.

What This Means for Migrants:

1. If you're earning over $50.34/hour, you may qualify for longer visa stays — a key step toward residency.

2. Earning over $67.12/hour? You could bypass LMT and simplify your visa process.

3. Plan ahead: these thresholds apply to new AEWV applications from 18 August 2025 onward.

What You Should Do Now:

1. Employers: Review your workforce plans. Consider adjusting pay offers to retain or attract talent under the new rules.

2. Migrants: If you're close to the new thresholds, talk to your employer about aligning your pay to meet these criteria.