The New Zealand Government has announced major reforms to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) program. These changes, effective from early 2025, are designed to address skill shortages, simplify processes for employers, and provide better pathways for migrants. Here is a breakdown of the key updates you need to know:
Removal of the Median Wage Threshold
Effective Date: March 2025
The mandatory median wage threshold for AEWV roles will be removed.
Employers must continue to offer market-rate salaries relevant to the role and location to ensure fair pay.
What this means: Employers will have greater flexibility in offering salaries, provided they align with market standards.
Reduced Experience Requirements for Migrants
Effective Date: March 2025
Minimum work experience requirements for lower-skilled roles will reduce to 2 years.
What this means: This change makes it easier for migrants with less experience to secure work visas for roles where skills shortages exist.
Extended Visa Duration for Lower-Skilled Roles
Effective Date: March 2025
AEWV applicants in ANZSCO Level 4-5 roles will now be granted 3-year visas (an increase from the current 2 years).
For existing visa holders on 2-year visas, there will be an option to apply for an additional 1-year AEWV if requirements are met.
What this means: Migrants in lower-skilled roles gain improved job security and more time to settle in New Zealand.
Expanded Interim Work Rights
Effective Date: April 2025
Interim work rights will now extend to applicants switching from any work visa or student visa, ensuring uninterrupted employment while their AEWV applications are processed.
What this means: Migrants can continue working without disruption while waiting for their visa decisions.
Simplified Labour Market Test
Effective Date: March 2025
Employers will move to a declaration-based model, where they confirm they have made genuine efforts to hire New Zealanders. This includes collaborating with Work and Income.
The previous 21-day timeframe for engaging with Work and Income will no longer apply.
What this means: The Job Check process for employers will become faster and less cumbersome, while still prioritizing New Zealand workers.
Adjusted Income Thresholds for Dependent Children
Effective Date: March 2025
AEWV holders will need to earn a minimum of NZ$55,844 annually to support dependent children.
Other existing criteria for supporting dependents will remain in place.
What this means: Families need to plan for the updated income requirement if seeking to bring children to New Zealand.
New Seasonal Worker Pathways
Effective Date: November 2025
Introduction of two new visa options for seasonal workers:
A 3-year multi-entry visa for experienced seasonal workers.
A 7-month single-entry visa for lesser-skilled seasonal workers.
The current temporary seasonal worker pathways will remain active until these new options are implemented.
What this means: Employers in seasonal industries will benefit from more flexible options to meet their workforce needs.
Changes to Employer Obligations
Effective Date: January 2025
Employers will no longer need to complete Employment New Zealand online modules.
Immigration New Zealand will provide links to employment rights and obligations resources at key points in the process.
What this means: Employers will save time, while still accessing the resources necessary to meet their obligations.
Streamlined Job Check Process
Effective Date: July 2025
Immigration New Zealand is redesigning the Job Check process for low-risk employers. This will simplify the process and improve visa processing times.
What this means: Employers can expect faster approvals when hiring migrants for roles.
Key Takeaways
These reforms aim to strike a balance between supporting employers in addressing skill gaps and ensuring fair opportunities for migrants. With a focus on flexibility, simplified processes, and extended work rights, these changes will make the AEWV program more effective for both employers and workers.
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