Published: 17 December 2024 | Reading Time: 3 minutes
In a landmark move set to reshape New Zealand’s immigration landscape, the new government has announced sweeping changes to visa rules starting January 2025. These updates aim to tackle persistent challenges, simplify processes, and open doors for both skilled migrants and employers.
From scrapping the median wage requirement to introducing family-friendly income thresholds and creating dedicated pathways for seasonal workers, these reforms promise a brighter future for businesses and families alike. Whether you’re an aspiring migrant or a local employer, these changes could redefine your opportunities.
What’s Changing? A Snapshot of the Key Updates
1. Median Wage Requirement Removed:
Goodbye to the median wage benchmark! From 2025, Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) applicants will need to meet only the minimum wage. This change creates a fairer, more inclusive system that makes it easier for businesses to hire the talent they need.
2. Family-Friendly Earning Thresholds:
Want to bring your kids to New Zealand? AEWV holders will now need an annual income of NZD $55,844 to sponsor dependent children. This ensures family stability while helping migrants reunite with loved ones.
3. Reduced Work Experience Requirements:
AEWV applicants will require just 2 years of work experience instead of 3, opening doors for skilled workers and helping employers overcome recruitment challenges.
4. Dedicated Seasonal Worker Pathways:
Industries like agriculture and horticulture can rejoice! Two new visa pathways for seasonal workers will roll out in late 2025, helping these sectors bridge critical labour gaps.
5. Longer Visas for Low-Skilled Jobs:
Roles classified under ANZSCO skill levels 4 or 5 will now qualify for 3-year AEWVs. This change aligns visa duration with the allowable stay period, giving workers and employers greater stability.
6. Simplified MSD Engagement for Employers:
The 21-day waiting period for employers to engage with the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) will be a thing of the past. A new, declaration-based system will save time and streamline hiring.
7. Extended Interim Work Rights:
From April 2025, AEWV applicants (including some on student or work visas) will gain interim work rights while their applications are being processed. This means less downtime and uncertainty for all.
8. Removal of Employment Modules:
Starting 27 January 2025, employers won’t need to complete Employment New Zealand’s online modules. Instead, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) will integrate these resources into the process to reduce red tape.
9. Support for the Construction Sector:
To meet growing demand, the domestic workforce threshold for certain construction roles will drop from 35% to 15%, allowing businesses to recruit overseas talent more effectively.
Additional Enhancements to Look Forward To
Improved Job Check Process: Low-risk employers can expect faster approvals and a smoother experience.
Enhanced Resources: INZ will provide better tools to guide employers through every step of hiring.
Why These Changes Matter
For migrants, these updates mean fewer barriers, greater job opportunities, and better chances to bring your family along. For employers, expect quicker processing times, simpler compliance requirements, and access to a larger talent pool to meet business demands.
These reforms reflect New Zealand’s commitment to attracting skilled workers, supporting industries, and fostering growth.
Timeline of Changes
January 2025:
Removing the requirements for completion of Employment New Zealand online modules
Reduction of domestic workforce thresholds for certain construction roles.
March 2025:
Removing the median wage requirement
New earning threshold to bring dependent children over
Reducing the experience requirement for migrants from 3 years to 2 years
Increasing the visa duration for ANZSCO Level 4 or 5 AEWV holders to 3 years
Amending the Work and Income engagement requirement
April 2025:
Greater work rights for those on interim visas
Mid-2025:
Redesigned Job Check process for faster and more efficient approvals.
November 2025:
Introducing new pathways for experienced seasonal worker
How I Can Help
Navigating immigration changes can be complex, but you don’t have to do it alone. As a licensed immigration adviser, I’m here to guide you through these updates and ensure your migration or hiring process is as seamless as possible.
Have questions about how these reforms could impact you? Let’s chat and make 2025 your year of opportunities! Feel free to contact me at audrey@abeona.co.nz —I’ll gladly help guide you through the process.
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