New Zealand’s immigration landscape is undergoing significant reforms with changes to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV). The Government’s newly announced updates aim to address skill shortages, streamline visa processes, and ensure a more efficient system for both employers and migrants.
These changes, set to roll out in stages starting from January 2025, are poised to make it easier for businesses to fill critical skill gaps while maintaining fairness and efficiency in hiring practices. If you’re an employer or a migrant worker, these reforms will impact you directly—and Professional Visa Solutions is here to guide you through every step.
Key Highlights of the AEWV Reforms
- Removal of Median Wage Threshold
One of the most notable changes is the removal of the median wage threshold. While employers are still required to offer AEWV employees the market rate for their roles and workplace locations, this reform simplifies the recruitment process.
What This Means for Employers: Increased flexibility in offering competitive salaries without the constraints of a median wage requirement.
What This Means for Migrants: Greater access to opportunities across various sectors.
- New Earnings Threshold for Migrants with Children
AEWV holders looking to bring children to New Zealand will now need to meet a new annual earning threshold of NZ$55,844. This update reflects a more inclusive approach while ensuring financial security for families.
- Reduced Experience Requirement
The required work experience for AEWV applicants will be reduced from three years to two years.
Why This Matters: It strikes a balance between ensuring sufficient skill levels and addressing concerns from employers and migrants during consultations.
- New Pathways for Seasonal Workers
By November 2025, two new visa pathways for seasonal workers will be introduced:
- A 3-year multi-entry visa for experienced seasonal workers.
- A 7-month single-entry visa for lesser-skilled workers.
These pathways will help industries like agriculture and tourism maintain steady workforce levels.
- Extended Visa Durations for ANZSCO Levels 4 and 5
For roles classified under ANZSCO Levels 4 and 5, visa durations will increase from 2 years to 3 years. Current visa holders can apply for a 1-year extension, aligning with the total permissible stay of 3 years.
- Simplified Work and Income Engagement Requirements
Employers hiring for ANZSCO Levels 4 and 5 will now need to simply declare their engagement with Work and Income instead of adhering to a strict 21-day timeframe.
- Interim Visa Work Rights Extended
From April 2025, interim work rights will be extended to all AEWV applicants, ensuring migrants can maintain employment while waiting for their visas to be processed.
- Removal of Employment New Zealand Online Modules
Starting 27 January 2025, the requirement for completing online modules will be eliminated. Employers will instead receive easy access to information on employment rights and obligations.
- Lower Domestic Workforce Threshold for Construction Roles
The domestic workforce threshold for certain construction roles will drop from 35% to 15%, ensuring employers in this critical sector can access international talent more effectively.
How These Changes Benefit Employers and Migrants
The reforms are designed to:
- Simplify visa processes, reducing bureaucratic hurdles.
- Provide more opportunities for migrants across a broader range of roles.
- Ensure employers have access to the skills they need without delays.
- Align with New Zealand’s economic goals and industry demands.
However, navigating these changes can be complex, especially with phased rollouts and industry-specific requirements.
How Professional Visa Solutions Can Help
At Professional Visa Solutions, we specialize in guiding employers and migrants through New Zealand’s evolving immigration landscape. With the AEWV reforms, it’s more crucial than ever to ensure your visa applications and recruitment processes are compliant and optimized.
Why Choose Us?
- Expert Guidance: Stay ahead of every reform stage with tailored advice.
- Streamlined Processes: Avoid delays and costly mistakes in applications.
- Comprehensive Support: Whether you’re an employer or a migrant, we provide end-to-end assistance.
The AEWV reforms present incredible opportunities—but only if you’re prepared. Let us help you navigate these changes with confidence and ease.
📞 Call us now to book a consultation: 0221121112
📧 Email us: inquiry@provisas.co.nz
Don’t wait—secure your future in New Zealand today with Professional Visa Solutions!