The New Zealand government is making big changes to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) scheme in 2025. These updates aim to make hiring easier for employers and create more job opportunities for migrant workers. Here’s what need to know:

Effective from 27 January 2025:

• No More Mandatory Training: Employers no longer need to complete Employment New Zealand’s online training modules or pay workers for completing them.
• Easier Hiring in Construction: Some construction businesses now only need 15% of their workforce to be New Zealand citizens or residents (down from 35%) before hiring migrant workers.

Changes in March 2025:

• No More Median Wage Requirement: The median wage will no longer apply to AEWV applications. Employers must pay at least the minimum wage. Immigration New Zealand will check that wages are fair to prevent underpayment.
• Less Work Experience Needed: AEWV applicants now need two years of experience instead of three. A New Zealand Level 4 qualification (or higher) can replace the work experience requirement.
• Simpler Job Advertising: Employers must still advertise lower-skilled roles nationally (e.g., on Seek) but no longer need proof of engagement with Work and Income New Zealand (WINZ). Instead, they must declare they have advertised and considered local candidates. Immigration New Zealand may do random checks.
• Extended Visa Duration for Lower-Skilled Roles: AEWVs will now last up to three years reducing costs and paperwork for employers and workers. Anyone holding a 2-year AEWV will be able to apply for a further 12 months.
• Higher Income Requirement for Family: The income threshold for migrant workers wishing to bring their children to New Zealand will rise to NZ$55,844 per annum, marking the first increase since 2019.

Changes in April 2025:

• Introduction of Interim Visas: Selected work and student visa holders applying for an AEWV will get an Interim Visa with work rights while waiting for approval. This helps businesses get workers started faster.
• Minimum Wage Increase: From 1 April 2025, the minimum wage will rise to $23.50 per hour. AEWV applications submitted after this must meet the new rate.

Changes in MID-2025:

• Faster Job Checks: A new job check process will speed up processing for low-risk employers, making hiring smoother.

Changes in NOVEMBER 2025:

• New Visa Options for Seasonal Workers: Two new visa options will be available for seasonal roles, such as ski instructors and winemakers. One offers a 3-year multiple-entry work visa for experienced workers, while the other provides a 7-month single-entry work visa for lower-skilled workers.

These changes are designed to make things easier for businesses, reducing paperwork and speeding up the AEWV process. Employers should take advantage of these updates to create a smoother, more efficient hiring experience.

How Freerange Can Help
Keeping up with immigration changes can be tricky. At Freerange, we help businesses navigate the AEWV process, from accreditation to job checks and hiring migrant workers.

📞 Get in touch today to see how we can support your hiring needs and make visa applications smoother.