The New Zealand government has been actively refining its immigration policies to attract skilled talent and address specific labour shortages while ensuring the integrity of the system. These changes are not arbitrary; they are strategic moves designed to balance economic needs with social goals. The most significant of these recent updates center around the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) and key residency pathways.
Key Changes to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)
The AEWV scheme is a cornerstone of New Zealand’s temporary work visa system. Recent announcements have outlined a series of changes, with some already in effect and others phased throughout 2025. These modifications aim to streamline the process for employers and better align the visa settings with the current labour market.
One of the most notable changes is the adjustment of the wage threshold. Historically, migrants under the AEWV were required to be paid at least the median wage. While this is being phased out, it is being replaced with a market rate requirement. This means employers must offer a wage that is consistent with what New Zealanders are being paid for the same role in the same location. This shift is designed to better reflect market conditions and prevent a decoupling of migrant and local wages.
Additionally, the government is making the application process more user-friendly. The requirement for accredited employers to complete online training modules has been removed, replaced with more accessible online resources that outline their obligations. This change, which became effective on January 27, 2025, is aimed at reducing administrative burdens on businesses while still ensuring they are aware of their responsibilities.
Further simplifying the AEWV process are changes to the Job Check system. A new, more streamlined process is expected to be introduced in mid-2025 for low-risk employers. This will make it easier and faster for accredited businesses to secure the skilled workers they need. For lower-skilled roles (ANZSCO 4-5), the minimum experience requirement is being reduced from three years to two years, and the visa duration is being increased from two to three years. These changes are designed to provide more stability and a clearer pathway for these essential workers.
Another significant update, effective from April 2025, is the extension of interim work rights to a broader range of AEWV applicants. This will allow individuals transitioning from other work or student visas to maintain employment while their AEWV application is being processed, providing crucial continuity for both the migrant and the employer.
Residency Pathways: Green List and Skilled Migrant Category
For those with a long-term vision of making New Zealand their home, the recent updates to residency pathways are of particular interest. The government continues to evolve its Green List and Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) to target occupations where there are persistent and genuine skill shortages.
In August 2025, ten new trade occupations will be added to the Green List Work to Residence pathway. This is excellent news for skilled tradespeople, as it offers a more direct and accelerated route to residency. This change is a clear signal that the New Zealand government values the contribution of skilled trades to the national economy and is actively seeking to retain this talent.
Beyond the Green List, the government is also reviewing the Skilled Migrant Category. The goal is to introduce a new, simplified points system that is clearer, fairer, and more transparent. This system will focus on granting residence to individuals who can fill medium- to long-term skill needs that are difficult to fill from the domestic labor market. The new system is expected to eliminate bonus points for non-skill factors like location or study in New Zealand, instead focusing on an applicant’s ability to demonstrate skill through factors such as income. This is a crucial policy shift that will require a new strategic approach from applicants.
Implications for Families and Other Visa Categories
The changes aren’t just for skilled workers; they also extend to other visa categories. A new ‘Parent Boost’ Visitor Visa is set to launch in September 2025, allowing parents of New Zealand citizens or residents to spend up to ten years in New Zealand. This thoughtful update is designed to help reunite families and enhances New Zealand’s appeal to highly skilled migrants who want their families closer.
For international students, there’s also good news. The government is committed to making New Zealand a top destination for international education. From November 3, 2025, the cap on weekly working hours for tertiary and senior secondary students will increase from 20 to 25 hours. This change will allow students to earn more to support their studies and lifestyle, making New Zealand an even more attractive place to learn.
Navigating Your Immigration Journey with Confidence
These changes, while designed to improve the immigration system, also introduce new complexities for prospective applicants. The specific requirements, documentation, and strategic considerations for each visa type can be intricate and subject to change. This is precisely why a resource like the Kiwi Visa Hub is invaluable.
Our online courses are meticulously updated to reflect the latest changes in immigration instructions and policy. We break down the complicated legal jargon into understandable, actionable steps. For example, our comprehensive course on the Accredited Employer Work Visa provides an in-depth analysis of the new market rate requirements and the revised Job Check process. Our Green List pathway courses offer tailored guidance for those in in-demand occupations, ensuring you meet the precise criteria for a smooth application.
In an environment where a single error can lead to a declined application and lost time and money, a robust, INZ-compliant application is your greatest asset. The Kiwi Visa Hub doesn’t just inform you of the changes; we equip you to navigate them successfully. By enrolling in our courses, you gain access to expert guidance, step-by-step instructions, and practical examples that will strengthen your application and increase your chances of success.
The journey to New Zealand is a significant life event, and every decision along the way matters. Staying informed through resources like this blog and taking a proactive approach with tools like our online courses will empower you to move forward with confidence. The latest updates signal a clear path for skilled workers, investors, and families to contribute to New Zealand’s growth. The Kiwi Visa Hub is here to help you take that path.