New Zealand has introduced significant changes to its visa and employment rules, aiming to simplify immigration processes and address critical labor shortages. These updates make it easier for skilled workers and employers to navigate the system while meeting workforce demands.
Key Updates to New Zealand Immigration Policies
Here’s a breakdown of the latest changes to New Zealand’s visa and employment policies:
1. Removal of Median Wage Requirement
The median wage threshold for Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) and Specific Purpose Work Visa (SPWV) roles has been removed. Employers must still advertise job openings and pay employees the prevailing market rate based on location and role.
Important Note: This change does not affect wage criteria for residence visas or existing employment agreements.
2. Updated Earnings Threshold for Migrants with Dependents
To bring dependent children to New Zealand, AEWV holders must earn at least NZ$55,844 annually. This requirement, unchanged since 2019, ensures families have the financial resources to settle in New Zealand.
3. Reduced Work Experience Requirement
The minimum work experience requirement for migrants has been lowered from three years to two. This change helps address labor shortages while ensuring workers possess sufficient skills to succeed in their roles.
4. New Pathways for Seasonal Workers
To meet the demand for seasonal labor, New Zealand has introduced two new visa options:
- Three-Year Multi-Entry Visa: Designed for experienced seasonal workers.
- Seven-Month Single-Entry Visa: Tailored for lower-skilled seasonal roles.
Existing seasonal worker programs will remain available until these updates are fully implemented.
5. Extended Visa Durations for Lower-Skilled Roles
Visa durations for skill levels 4 and 5 (as per the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations) have been extended to three years. Previously, these visas were valid for two years with an optional one-year extension.
Workers on current two-year visas can apply for a one-year extension if they meet eligibility requirements.
6. Simplified Recruitment for Employers
Employers hiring for skill level 4 or 5 positions are no longer required to complete a mandatory 21-day engagement period with Work and Income. Instead, they must make a good-faith effort to recruit locally, including advertising roles and interviewing suitable candidates.
7. Enhanced Interim Work Rights for Migrants
Starting April 2025, AEWV applicants transitioning from other work visas or student visas with work privileges will receive extended interim work rights. This allows migrants to continue working while their visa applications are processed.
8. Simplified Employer Compliance Requirements
From January 27, 2025, accredited employers and Recognised Seasonal Employers (RSE) will no longer need to complete online training modules from Employment New Zealand. Instead, Immigration New Zealand will provide user-friendly resources about employment rights and obligations.
9. Lower Domestic Workforce Threshold for Construction Roles
In certain construction sectors, the domestic workforce threshold has been reduced from 35% to 15%. This adjustment makes it easier for employers to fill critical labor gaps in the industry.
What These Changes Mean for Migrants and Employers
These updates reflect New Zealand’s commitment to creating a more flexible and efficient immigration system.
- For Migrants: Reduced work experience requirements, extended visa durations, and enhanced work rights open new opportunities to live and work in New Zealand.
- For Employers: Streamlined processes, relaxed compliance measures, and new recruitment pathways help address labor shortages more effectively.
By implementing these changes, New Zealand aims to attract skilled talent, support economic growth, and build a more resilient workforce.
