New Zealand’s Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) Phase 2: Key Changes in 2025
By admin
New Zealand’s immigration landscape is evolving, and the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) Phase 2 reforms are set to transform how skilled and low-skilled workers enter the workforce in 2025. Whether you’re a prospective applicant or an employer, understanding these changes is crucial for a smooth transition into New Zealand’s dynamic work environment.
The New Zealand Government has introduced major updates to the AEWV, effective March 10, 2025. These changes are designed to simplify the visa process and create a more accessible pathway for those looking to work in New Zealand. Let’s explore the key updates that are set to impact both new and current AEWV holders.
What’s changing:
- New Rule: Employers are now required to pay only the minimum wage of NZD 23.50 per hour instead of meeting a higher median wage threshold.
- Why It Matters: This change makes the AEWV more accessible for businesses and ensures that migrant workers still receive competitive pay compared to their New Zealand counterparts.
2. Reduced Work Experience Requirement
New Opportunity for Skilled Workers:
- Old Requirement: Three years of relevant work experience.
- New Requirement: Reduced to two years, making it easier for skilled workers to qualify for the AEWV.
- Benefit: Faster entry into New Zealand’s workforce for those with valuable skills and experience.
Streamlined Process:
- Declaration-Based Approach: Employers now need only declare that they have advertised lower-skilled roles with the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) and conducted appropriate interviews.
- Documentation: Retaining evidence of recruitment efforts remains essential for compliance.
Greater Job Security:
- Change: AEWV holders in ANZSCO Level 4 and 5 occupations can now receive a three-year visa.
- Impact: This extension provides stability and better long-term planning for workers in lower-skilled roles.
Stronger Family Support:
- New Threshold: The annual income requirement to support dependent children will rise to NZD 55,844.
- Calculation: This figure is based on 80% of the median wage for a 40-hour workweek, ensuring that families are well-supported.
Reclassification of Occupations:
- Affected Roles: Certain jobs, including pet groomers, cooks, kennel hands, scaffolders, fitness instructors, slaughterers, and nannies, will now be classified as ANZSCO Skill Level 3.
- Benefit: This reclassification could lead to improved career prospects and better pay structures.
Continuity for Applicants:
- New Provision: Applicants transitioning from other work or student visas will be able to work on an interim basis while awaiting their AEWV decisions.
- Residency Impact: Time on an interim visa will now count toward the total continuous stay required for future residency applications.
Additional Changes:
- Partner Support: Effective February 28, 2025, the wage threshold for supporting a partner will increase to NZD 26.85 per hour.
- Parent Category Sponsors: Income thresholds for these sponsors will rise to NZD 33.56 per hour, ensuring a fair and updated benchmark.
For New Applicants:
- Simpler Requirements: The lowered work experience requirement and removal of the median wage condition make it easier than ever to apply.
- Enhanced Security: Longer visa durations and interim work rights offer more stability during the transition period.
For Current AEWV Holders:
No Immediate Impact: Your existing visa conditions will remain unchanged, ensuring you continue with your current work rights and pay arrangements until your next renewal.
These AEWV Phase 2 reforms are designed with both employers and workers in mind. By simplifying requirements and providing longer visa durations, New Zealand aims to:
- Attract a Diverse Workforce: Making it easier for skilled and low-skilled workers to enter the labor market.
- Promote Fairness: Ensuring that wage thresholds and skill recognitions are updated to reflect the true value of the work being done.
- Support Families: With higher income thresholds, the reforms emphasize the importance of supporting the well-being of workers’ families.
As New Zealand embarks on this new phase of its work visa program, it’s essential for both employers and prospective employees to prepare for these changes. By understanding the details and benefits of the AEWV Phase 2 reforms, you can better navigate the evolving immigration landscape and secure your future in New Zealand.
For personalized advice or more detailed guidance on how these changes affect your situation, consider consulting with an immigration expert. Stay updated with official government releases and trusted news outlets to ensure you have the latest information.
