Work Visa Reforms: What You Need to Know for 2025
1
23
0
The New Zealand Government has announced significant reforms to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) scheme, seasonal work pathways, and work rights for Interim Visa holders. These changes aim to streamline processes, provide more flexibility for employers, and improve pathways for skilled migrants. Here's a breakdown of what’s changing and when:
Key Changes from 27 January 2025
Accredited Employer Requirements Simplified:Accredited employers, including Recognised Seasonal Employers, will no longer need to complete Employment New Zealand’s online modules or offer paid time for migrants to do so.
Construction Sector Adjustments:The requirement for certain construction businesses to employ a minimum percentage of New Zealanders will decrease from 35% to 15%, easing hiring constraints in the sector.
Major Reforms Starting March 2025
Removal of Wage Thresholds for AEWV Roles: Employers will no longer need to meet specific wage thresholds but must still offer AEWV workers the market rate for their roles and locations. Existing employment agreements and residence visa wage requirements remain unchanged.
Reduced Work Experience Requirements: Migrants will need only two years of relevant work experience instead of the current three years.
Simplified Job Check Process: Employers will no longer need to provide evidence of engagement with Work and Income. Instead, they must declare they have advertised lower-skilled roles with Work and Income and interviewed suitable candidates.
Extended AEWV Duration: The AEWV duration for new lower-skilled migrants will increase to three years, aligning with the maximum stay allowed on this visa type. Those currently on two-year visas can apply for an additional year.
Family Support Earnings Threshold: Migrants must earn at least NZ$55,844 annually to bring children to New Zealand. This threshold, unchanged since 2019, will apply alongside other criteria.
April 2025 and Beyond
Interim Visa Work Rights Expansion: Some work and student visa holders applying for AEWV can receive an Interim Visa, allowing them to work while their AEWV application is processed.
Streamlined Job Check by Mid-2025: A new Job Check process will make hiring easier for low-risk employers and improve processing timeframes.
New Seasonal Work Pathways (November 2025): Two new visa options will be introduced:
A 3-year multi-entry visa for experienced seasonal workers.
A 7-month single-entry visa for lesser-skilled seasonal workers.
Existing temporary seasonal pathways will continue until these new options are launched.
What Does This Mean for You?
If you’re a New Zealand employer or migrant worker, these changes simplify the hiring process and offer more flexibility for both parties. With reduced bureaucratic hurdles and streamlined systems, 2025 promises to be a year of enhanced opportunities for skilled and seasonal workers.
For tailored advice on how these reforms could impact your situation, feel free to reach out to GEMACD LIMITED today. We’re here to guide you through the process with expertise and care.
Let us help you make New Zealand your new home! Contact us at https://student.gemacd.com/contact-us or call +64 9 828 4026 to learn more.
