New Zealand’s Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) Phase 2: Key Changes in 2025

The New Zealand Government has announced significant reforms to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV). These changes will take effect on March 10, 2025. Whether you are applying for the first time or currently hold an AEWV, these updates will impact your work and life in New Zealand.

Major Changes to the AEWV

The most notable change is the removal of the median wage requirement. Employers will now only need to pay the minimum wage of NZD 23.50 per hour starting April 1, 2025. Additionally, the work experience requirement will drop from three years to two years, allowing skilled workers to qualify more quickly.

The visa duration for low-skilled jobs will extend to three years, and the income threshold for supporting dependent children will increase. Several occupations will also be recognized at higher skill levels, leading to better job opportunities.

What About Current AEWV Holders?

If you already hold an AEWV, your conditions will remain unchanged. You will continue under your current visa terms, including pay and work rights. New applicants after March 10 will enjoy eased requirements, longer visa durations, and a simplified application process.

Key Changes Under AEWV Phase 2

1. Removal of Median Wage Requirement

Starting March 10, 2025:

• The median wage requirement will no longer apply to AEWV and Specific Purpose Work Visa (SPWV) holders.
• Employers must pay at least the New Zealand minimum wage of NZD 23.50 per hour.
• Migrant workers will still need to receive pay equal to their New Zealand counterparts.

2. Reduction in Work Experience Requirement

From March 10, 2025:

• The work experience requirement for AEWV applicants will decrease from three years to two years.
• Employers must verify that migrant workers meet this threshold.

3. Declaration-Based Ministry of Social Development (MSD) Engagement

Effective March 10, 2025:

• Employers need only declare they have advertised lower-skilled roles with MSD and interviewed suitable candidates.
• Employers must retain evidence of their recruitment processes.

4. Extended Visa Duration for ANZSCO Level 4 and 5 Workers

From March 10, 2025:

• AEWV holders in ANZSCO Level 4 and 5 occupations will be eligible for a three-year visa.
• This change provides greater job security and stability for low-skilled migrant workers.

5. Increased Income Threshold for Supporting Dependent Children

Starting March 10, 2025:

• The income threshold for supporting dependent children will rise to NZD 55,844 annually.
• This figure represents 80% of the median wage, based on a 40-hour workweek.

6. Recognition of Higher ANZSCO Skill Levels

From March 10, 2025, certain occupations will be classified as ANZSCO Skill Level 3, including:

• Pet Groomer
• Cook
• Kennel Hand
• Scaffolder
• Fitness Instructor
• Slaughterer
• Nanny

7. Interim Visa Work Rights Updates (Effective April 2025)

New provisions will allow interim visa holders to work while awaiting AEWV decisions:

• Applicants transitioning from any work visa or student visa will be allowed to work on an interim visa.
• Time spent on an interim visa will count toward total continuous stay eligibility.

8. Median Wage Changes (Effective February 28, 2025)

From February 28, 2025:

• The wage threshold for supporting a partner will rise to NZD 26.85 per hour.
• The income threshold for Parent Category sponsors will increase to NZD 33.56 per hour.

Key Takeaways

• No Median Wage Requirement: Only the minimum wage applies.
• Reduced Experience Requirement: Now only two years needed.
• Longer Visa Duration: Three years for Level 4 and 5 roles.
• Increased Family Support Threshold: NZD 55,844 annually.
• Work Rights on Interim Visas: Enhanced job security during processing.

Employers and applicants should prepare for these changes ahead of the March 10, 2025, implementation date. This preparation will ensure smooth transitions and compliance with the updated AEWV requirements.