New Zealand Work Visa Shake-Up: Major Changes Proposed for 2025!

AEWV Changes on the Horizon: Stay Informed!

Alright folks, let's talk about some potential exciting news coming out of Immigration New Zealand! There's talk of some proposed significant changes to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV), and if/ when these come to pass, they could make life a whole lot easier for many of you.

Phase 2 of the AEWV reforms takes place on the implementation date of March 10, 2025. And we're talking about some major shifts that could significantly impact your journey to living and working in New Zealand.

Wage and Experience:  Easing of Requirements

Let's dive right into the biggest proposed news: the median wage requirement may be removed! Yes, you heard that right. From March 10th , employers only need to pay at least the minimum wage, which, by the way, is scheduled to rise to a very respectable NZD $23.50 per hour from April 1st, 2025.

Of course, you'll still need to be paid the market rate for your job, ensuring you're treated fairly, but this possible change opens doors for many who might have previously been priced out.

And that's not all. The work experience hurdle is also being lowered. Instead of needing three years of experience, you might only need two. This is fantastic news for skilled workers looking to get into the New Zealand job market faster.

Visa Durations, Family Support, and Occupation Classifications

Now, for those working in ANZSCO Level 4 and 5 roles, get ready for some stability! Visa durations are being extended to a full three years, aligning with your maximum continuous stay. This means more job security and peace of mind when these changes are implemented.

If you're planning to bring your family, you need to be aware of the income threshold for supporting dependent children increases to NZD $55,844 annually. This reflects the government's stated intention of ensuring families have the financial means to thrive here.

We're also seeing some potential positive changes in how occupations are classified. Certain roles, like pet groomers and cooks, move up to ANZSCO Skill Level 3, opening up better visa pathways.

And for those of you in roles like excavator operators or forklift drivers, if you have three years of experience or a Level 4 qualification, your role could also be treated as Skill Level 3.

It seems these changes are made in preparation for residence visa pathway changes, expected to be announced over the next couple of months.

Interim Visa Rights and  Wage Adjustments

For those of you waiting on your AEWV decisions, there’s talk of great news! Interim visa holders have work rights if they're transitioning from a work or student visa that allows work. Plus, time spent on an interim visa could count towards your continuous stay.

And before we get to the potential big March changes, there are some scheduled important wage adjustments coming into effect on February 28, 2025. The wage threshold for supporting a partner and the income threshold for Parent Category sponsors are set to increase, so make sure you're aware of these changes if they apply to you.

Staying Informed: Your Next Steps

So, what does this all mean for you? It means potentially greater accessibility, more stability, and a smoother pathway to living and working in New Zealand. Whether you're a new applicant or already hold an AEWV, these changes are designed to benefit you.

As your licensed immigration adviser, the team here at Auckland Immigration Services is here to help you stay informed about these developments and make the most of the potential opportunities they present. It's always a good idea to stay prepared for changes. If you have any questions or need personalized advice, don't hesitate to contact us. Let's discuss your New Zealand dream.