Changes to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) and Median Wage

Starting in March 2025, there will be several updates to the AEWV, making it more flexible for businesses. The median wage will also change in February 2025. 

Key Changes Effective March 10, 2025: 

1. No More Median Wage Requirement

   - Employers hiring under the AEWV and Specific Purpose Work Visa (SPWV) will no longer need to pay the median wage. 

   - The only requirement is to pay at least the New Zealand minimum wage (NZD $23.50 per hour from April 1, 2025). 

   - However, migrant workers must be paid the same as New Zealand workers doing similar jobs (market rate). 

   - Sector Agreements that allowed exemptions from the median wage will be removed, except for those offering residence pathways. 

2. Less Work Experience Required

   - The required work experience for AEWV applicants will be reduced from 3 years to 2 years. 

   - Employers must still check that candidates meet this requirement and verify it with evidence. 

3. Simplified Job Advertisement Process

   - Employers hiring for lower-skilled jobs (ANZSCO levels 4 and 5) must declare they have advertised with the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) and interviewed suitable candidates. 

   - Employers need to keep records of this process in case of future checks. 

4. Longer Visa Duration for Low-Skilled Jobs

   - AEWV holders in ANZSCO levels 4 and 5 will be granted 3-year visas, allowing them to stay in New Zealand for up to 3 years. 

5. Higher Income Requirement for Supporting Children

   - The minimum income to support dependent children will increase from NZD $43,322.76 to NZD $55,844 per year. 

   - This applies only to new applications after March 10, 2025. Families already in New Zealand or who applied before this date will follow the old rules. 

6. Recognition of Higher Skill Levels for Some Jobs 

   - Certain roles, like cooks, pet groomers, and fitness instructors, will be classified as higher-skilled (ANZSCO Level 3) to match the National Occupation List (NOL). 

   - Some machine operators and forklift drivers can also be considered Level 3 if they meet specific experience or qualification requirements. 

7. Work Rights for Interim Visa Holders(Effective April 2025) 

   - Applicants waiting for an AEWV decision will have interim work rights if they applied from a work or student visa. 

   - Time spent on an interim visa with work rights will count towards the AEWV stay limit and work-to-residence eligibility. 

Median Wage Updates (Effective February 28, 2025): 

- AEWV holders who want to sponsor their partner for a visa must earn at least NZD $26.85 per hour. 

- Sponsors under the Parent Category must meet a new median wage of NZD $33.56 per hour. 

These changes aim to make hiring migrants easier for employers while ensuring fair pay and better opportunities for workers. Source: Immigration New Zealand