The New Zealand government has released new details about many changes to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) which will be implemented in different phases in 2025. The summary of major changes is as follows:
- ANZSCO Level 4 or 5 visas extend to three years; employer Work and Income requirements become declaration-based.
- In March 2025, AEWV roles will no longer have a median wage threshold but must match market rates.
- From Jan. 27, 2025, accredited employers won’t need to complete Employment New Zealand’s online modules.
- AEWV migrants must earn NZ$55,844 annually to support children and need two years of relevant experience.
The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) is the gateway to working in New Zealand for up to five years with a trusted, accredited employer. To qualify, applicants need a job offer guaranteeing at least 30 hours of work per week from an employer who meets New Zealand’s accreditation standards.
This visa is designed to ensure fair work conditions and provide opportunities for skilled individuals to contribute to New Zealand’s thriving workforce.
What exactly is changing for the New Zealand Work Visa?
Big and many updates are coming to New Zealand’s work visa system in 2025, aiming to streamline processes and address workforce needs. Here’s a breakdown of the most important changes.
New Earning Threshold for Migrants with Dependents
Migrants applying under the AEWV scheme to support dependent children must now earn at least NZ$55,844 annually. This threshold, unchanged since 2019, ensures financial stability for migrant families.
No More Median Wage Requirement
Employers hiring under the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) and Specific Purpose Work Visa (SPWV) schemes will no longer need to meet median wage thresholds. However, they must still offer employees market-appropriate pay based on their role and location. Existing employment agreements and residence wage requirements remain unchanged.
Seasonal Worker Pathways Expanding
Starting in November 2025, two new visa pathways for seasonal workers will be available for foreign workers:
- A 3-year multi-entry visa for experienced seasonal workers.
- A 7-month single-entry visa for lesser-skilled seasonal workers.
Furthermore, the temporary seasonal pathways will remain in place until these options launch.
Reduced Experience Requirement for AEWV Applicants
The required work experience for AEWV applicants will decrease from three years to two. This adjustment balances the need for skilled workers with accessibility for qualified migrants. This means more foreigners will be able to apply for this visa stream.
Longer Visa Duration for ANZSCO Level 4 and 5 Workers
Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) holders in skill levels 4 and 5, as classified by ANZSCO, will enjoy their visa durations extended to three years. This aligns with their maximum allowable stay in New Zealand. Workers on current two-year visas can apply for a one-year extension if eligible.
Streamlined Employer Requirements
Employers hiring for skill level 4 or 5 roles must declare they’ve advertised jobs with Work and Income and interviewed suitable candidates. The prior 21-day engagement timeframe has been removed, simplifying the process.
Improved Interim Work Rights
From April 2025, interim visa holders transitioning from work or eligible student visas will retain their work rights. This ensures migrants can continue employment while their new visas are processed.
Online Module Requirement Removed
Starting January 27, 2025, accredited employers and Recognized Seasonal Employers will no longer need to complete Employment New Zealand’s online modules. Instead, workers and employers will receive links to employment rights resources at key points during the immigration process.
Lower Domestic Workforce Threshold for Construction Roles
The domestic workforce threshold for specific construction roles will drop from 35% to 15%, enabling employers to meet critical labor demands more easily.
Previously announced changes
Many new changes for the “Accredited Employer Work Visa” were also in effect in New Zealand on June 26, 2024. People with an AEWV in jobs classified at levels 4 and 5 of the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO) and without a path to residency could no longer sponsor visa applications for their partners or dependent children.
As per the New Zealand immigration department, these changes would not affect in the following cases:
| Category | Description |
| People who already hold visas as a partner or dependent child | Individuals who currently possess visas under partner or dependent child categories. |
| AEWV holders in ANZSCO level 4 and 5 roles with a pathway to residency | Workers holding AEWV in lower ANZSCO levels who have pathways to residency through Green List, sector agreements, or earning high wages. |
| People with ongoing applications as a partner or dependent child | Individuals with pending applications under partner or dependent child categories, processed by the rules in effect at the time of application. |