Changes to Accredited Employer Work Visa and Median Wage Announced
Auckland, New Zealand – Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has announced significant adjustments to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) scheme and associated median wage requirements, with the changes rolling out throughout 2025. These revisions aim to fine-tune the system, ensuring it effectively addresses New Zealand’s evolving workforce demands while continuing to attract skilled migrants.
A pivotal change, which took effect on March 10, 2025, involves the removal of the median wage requirement for AEWV applications, as well as for the Specific Purpose Work Visa (SPWV).1 Previously, these visas required applicants to be paid at or above the median wage for their occupation. Now, the New Zealand minimum wage will serve as the baseline for these visas. However, INZ emphasizes that employers are still expected to offer migrant workers compensation that aligns with the prevailing New Zealand market rate for their respective roles.2 This change intends to provide greater flexibility for employers while maintaining fair wage standards.
Furthermore, the required work experience for migrants seeking the AEWV has been reduced.3 Previously, applicants needed to demonstrate three years of relevant work experience.4 This has now been lowered to two years, potentially broadening the pool of eligible candidates.5 This adjustment acknowledges that valuable skills and expertise can be acquired in a shorter timeframe, and it seeks to streamline the process for qualified individuals seeking to contribute to the New Zealand workforce.
In a move to prioritize local employment, INZ will now require employers seeking to fill lower-skilled roles through the AEWV to demonstrate active engagement with the Ministry of Social Development (MSD). This engagement aims to ensure that employers have explored all reasonable avenues for recruiting New Zealanders before turning to migrant labor. This requirement reinforces the government’s commitment to prioritizing domestic job seekers while still allowing employers to fill critical skill gaps.
Other notable changes include an extension of the visa length for new ANZSCO Level 4 and 5 AEWVs to three years, providing greater stability for both migrants and employers.6 Concurrently, the income threshold for supporting dependent children will increase to NZD $55,844 annually, reflecting the rising cost of living and ensuring that migrants who bring their families to New Zealand can adequately support them.7 Finally, a number of occupations will be reclassified to align with the updated National Occupation List (NOL), ensuring consistency and accuracy in the visa application process.8
These comprehensive changes reflect Immigration New Zealand’s ongoing commitment to refining the AEWV system, striking a balance between attracting skilled migrants and prioritizing the employment of New Zealanders.9 The adjustments are designed to create a more responsive and efficient system that meets the evolving needs of the New Zealand economy.
