As New Zealand continues to refine its immigration system, significant reforms to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) will take effect on March 10, 2025. These AEWV Phase 2 changes bring about key alterations to wage requirements, work experience thresholds, visa durations, and family support criteria, all of which will impact both current and future applicants.
Whether you’re planning to apply for the first time or already hold an AEWV, understanding these changes will help you prepare for a smoother visa journey in New Zealand. Here’s an in-depth breakdown of what the AEWV Phase 2 changes entail and how they will affect your employment and family sponsorship options.
1. Removal of Median Wage Requirement
Starting from March 10, 2025, one of the most impactful changes is the removal of the median wage requirement for AEWV applicants. Previously, employers were required to pay a certain median wage to foreign workers. Under the new system, employers will only need to pay the New Zealand minimum wage, which will be NZD $23.50 per hour from April 1, 2025.
While employers are still expected to pay workers the market rate for their job roles, this move will make it easier for employers to hire foreign workers and reduce wage-related barriers for applicants.
Key Takeaways:
- The median wage requirement is removed.
- Employers must pay at least the minimum wage of NZD $23.50 per hour.
- No caps, visa duration limitations, or wage thresholds apart from the minimum wage for previously sector-exempted jobs.
2. Reduction in Work Experience Requirement
The work experience requirement for AEWV applicants is also being reduced from 3 years to just 2 years. This will help skilled workers qualify faster, as employers will now only need to verify 2 years of relevant experience rather than 3. The change reduces barriers for skilled workers from abroad and makes it easier to enter New Zealand’s labor market.
Key Takeaways:
- The work experience requirement is lowered from 3 years to 2 years.
- Applicants must still provide evidence of their experience.
3. Simplified Employer Recruitment Process
Under the Phase 2 changes, employers will no longer be required to show they have actively recruited for lower-skilled roles (ANZSCO Skill Level 4 and 5). Instead, employers will only need to declare that they have advertised the role and interviewed candidates from the local market.
This streamlined process reduces administrative work for employers while still maintaining fair recruitment practices.
Key Takeaways:
- Employers must declare they’ve advertised for roles, not necessarily demonstrate recruitment.
- Evidence must be retained for potential checks.
4. Extended Visa Duration for ANZSCO Level 4 and 5 Workers
AEWV holders in ANZSCO Level 4 and 5 occupations will now be eligible for a 3-year visa, aligning with the maximum continuous stay allowed for low-skilled migrant workers. This extension offers greater job security and stability for lower-skilled migrants, allowing them to stay in New Zealand longer and gain more experience.
Key Takeaways:
- Level 4 and 5 roles now have a 3-year visa duration.
- This extension provides better job security and stability for lower-skilled workers.
5. Increased Income Threshold for Supporting Dependent Children
Starting from March 10, 2025, the income threshold required to support dependent children will rise from NZD $43,322.76 to NZD $55,844 annually. This threshold is set to 80% of the median wage, based on a 40-hour workweek, and will be updated yearly.
The change means that applicants will need to meet higher income standards to support children, but the new threshold provides a clearer path for family reunification and supporting dependent children.
Key Takeaways:
- The threshold for supporting dependent children increases to NZD $55,844 annually.
- This update will help ensure that migrants can meet the financial requirements for family support.
6. Recognition of Higher ANZSCO Skill Levels
From March 10, 2025, certain ANZSCO occupations will be reclassified as Skill Level 3, which opens up additional visa pathways for workers in critical roles. Occupations such as pet groomers, cooks, and nannies will now be classified under a higher skill level, offering more opportunities for skilled workers.
Key Takeaways:
- Some occupations will be reclassified to ANZSCO Skill Level 3.
- These reclassifications unlock better job opportunities for skilled workers.
7. Interim Visa Work Rights Updates (Effective April 2025)
New provisions will be introduced for those transitioning to an AEWV, including work rights for applicants on an interim visa while waiting for their AEWV decision. Time spent on an interim visa will count toward the total continuous stay under AEWV, allowing for smoother transitions between visa types.
Key Takeaways:
- Work rights will be granted to interim visa holders.
- Time spent on interim visas counts towards continuous stay under AEWV.
8. Median Wage and Family Support Threshold Updates (Effective February 28, 2025)
Effective from February 28, 2025, the income thresholds for supporting a partner and parent category sponsors will also rise. The partner threshold will increase to NZD $26.85 per hour, while the income threshold for parent sponsors will increase to NZD $33.56 per hour.
These increases mean higher financial requirements for migrants supporting family members, making it important for applicants to plan their finances accordingly.
Key Takeaways:
- The wage threshold for supporting a partner rises to NZD $26.85 per hour.
- The parent sponsor threshold increases to NZD $33.56 per hour.
How to Prepare for AEWV Phase 2 Changes
To ensure a smooth transition when the AEWV Phase 2 reforms take effect on March 10, 2025, employers and applicants should begin preparing now. Key actions to take include:
- Verify wage and experience requirements under the new guidelines.
- Review family support options and ensure income thresholds are met.
- Consult with immigration experts to understand the changes and how they will affect your specific situation.
The AEWV Phase 2 changes offer New Zealand work visa applicants more opportunities, greater job stability, and clearer pathways for family sponsorship. By understanding these reforms, you can make the most of these changes and secure your future in New Zealand.
If you are planning to apply for an AEWV or are already in the process, now is the time to take action and ensure you are ready for the changes coming into effect on March 10, 2025.
FAQs
Q1: What’s the biggest change in AEWV Phase 2?
The removal of the median wage requirement is the most significant change, which will reduce barriers for employers and migrants alike.
Q2: Will the visa duration change for all workers?
Only ANZSCO Level 4 and 5 workers will see an extension to a 3-year visa.
Q3: How can I prepare for the increased family support threshold?
Ensure that you meet the new income thresholds for supporting dependent children and family members.
