Major Changes to New Zealand’s Primary Work Visa

December 17, 2024 – If you plan to work in New Zealand, there’s important news about the NZ Primary Work Visa, Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV). The New Zealand Government has introduced significant changes to the AEWV to make it easier for skilled workers worldwide to live and work in the country. These updates will be rolled out in stages throughout 2025

Key Changes and When They Start

1. No More Median WageRequirement (Starting March 2025):
   Starting in March 2025, employers won’t need to meet a median wage standard. They must still pay fair market rates for jobs in their area. This means employers can hire skilled workers without worrying about specific wage benchmarks, making it easier for migrants to secure jobs.
2. Less Work Experience Needed (Starting March 2025):
   For lower-skilled jobs, the required work experience will decrease from three years to two. This change opens up more opportunities for workers to find employment in New Zealand, especially in industries that need extra help.
3. Longer Visas for Certain Jobs (Starting March 2025):
   Workers in specific job categories (ANZSCOlevel 4 or 5) will receive visas valid for three years instead of the previous two years with a possible one-year extension. This provides more stability for both employers and employees.
4. Keep Working While Waiting (Starting April 2025):
   If you’re switching to an AEWV from another work or student visa, you can continue working while your new visa is being processed. This ensures there are no gaps in your employment.
5. Easier Hiring Process (Starting March 2025):
   Employers still need to advertise jobs to local candidates, but the mandatory 21-day waiting period is removed. This makes the hiring process faster and more flexible for businesses.
6. Bringing Your Family Made Easier (Starting March 2025):
   The income requirement to bring your children to New Zealand will increase from NZ$43,322 to NZ$55,844. This change reflects the rising cost of living and makes it easier for families to join their loved ones in New Zealand.
7. Construction Employers Get a Boost (Starting January 2025):
   Companies hiring for specific construction roles will see their requirement to employ local workers drop from 35% to 15%. This helps fill essential positions in the construction industry more easily.
8. New Seasonal Work Visas (Late 2025):
   Two new seasonal work visas are coming: one for experienced seasonal workers offering a three-year multi-entry option, and another for less experienced workers allowing a single seven-month entry. Existing seasonal visas will remain available until these new options are launched.
9. Simplified Employer Training (Starting January 27, 2025):
   Employers and Recognised Seasonal Employers won’t need to complete Employment New Zealand’s online training modules anymore. Instead, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) will provide free, reliable information about employment rights and responsibilities.

Additional Improvements

INZ is also planning to make the AEWV Job Check process simpler, especially for employers considered low-risk. This will help speed up visa approvals and make the system more efficient overall.

Official Comments

Immigration Minister Erica Stanford shared her thoughts on the changes: “These reforms are crucial for supporting our economy. Earlier adjustments helped control immigration levels and reduce exploitation of migrants. Since then, we’ve trained our staff and improved our operations, cutting the median Employer Accreditation processing time from 62 days to just 14 days and doubling the productivity in the Job Check process.”

She added, “Following our coalition agreement with ACT, we are removing the median wage threshold in March 2025. The old system sometimes forced businesses to pay migrants more than local workers for the same job or raise prices to stay fair. These changes ensure wages remain competitive and fair without unnecessary barriers.”

Looking Ahead

More details about these reforms will be available in early 2025. For the latest updates, visit the official Beehive website or the Immigration New Zealand portal.

Reference: https://www.beehive.govt.nz/