New Zealand to launch new visa pathways in 2025

New Zealand is set to unveil two new visa pathways in 2025, alongside several other reforms aimed at easing labour market shortages. Some of the reforms include the removal of the median wage threshold, reduced experience requirements for skilled migrants, and the introduction of new pathways for seasonal workers.

The reforms will be rolled out in four phases starting in January 2025, under the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) programme. Employers and migrants are therefore advised to stay updated on the specific timelines and requirements for each phase to ensure compliance.

The country has taken these steps to address skilled labour shortages through major reforms to the AEWV and related processes. The changes aim to streamline hiring procedures, address skill gaps, and support employers in meeting workforce demands.

Here are the changes in more detail:

Seasonal visa pathways

By November 2025, New Zealand will launch two new visa pathways for seasonal workers. The existing temporary seasonal pathways will remain available until these new options are introduced. The new visa pathways include a 3-year multi-entry visa designed for experienced workers and a 7-month single-entry visa for lesser-skilled seasonal workers.

Removal of median wage threshold

From March 2025, New Zealand will eliminate the median wage threshold for AEWV and Specific Purpose Work Visa (SPWV) roles. Employers will still need to offer market-rate salaries based on the job’s location and position. Existing employment agreements and residence permit wage requirements will remain unchanged.

To bring children to New Zealand, AEWV migrants must meet a revised annual earnings threshold of NZ$55,844, a figure unchanged since 2019. This serves as a benchmark for applicants wishing to support their dependents while working in the country.

Reduced work experience requirement

The government is reducing the required work experience for AEWV applicants from three years to two, broadening the pool of qualified skilled workers and making it easier for employers to fill critical positions.

Extended visa duration for low-skill roles

For jobs classified as Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO) skill level 4 or 5, the visa duration for AEWV holders will increase from two years (plus a one-year extension) to a continuous three-year period, aligning with the maximum stay permitted for such workers. Current visa holders with a two-year permit may apply for an additional one-year AEWV if they meet the requirements.

Revised job check procedure

Immigration New Zealand (INZ) will streamline the Job Check process to reduce processing times for low-risk employers, making it easier for businesses to navigate the immigration system and fill vacancies more quickly.

Reduced processing times

INZ has significantly reduced processing times for employer accreditation, cutting the average time from 62 days to just 14 days.

Extending interim work rights

The New Zealand government is extending interim work rights for migrant workers during visa processing and simplifying the work and income engagement requirements. This will benefit applicants transitioning from other work or student visas, ensuring they can maintain employment while their applications are processed.

Amendments to work and income engagement

Employers hiring for ANZSCO skill level 4 or 5 roles will no longer face a mandatory 21-day engagement timeframe with Work and Income. Instead, a declaration-based system will require employers to confirm they have advertised jobs in good faith and interviewed suitable candidates.