A Welcome Change for Employers and Migrants
The New Zealand Government’s recent announcement of AEWV reforms is set to revolutionize for both employers and migrants. These changes, set to roll out in stages throughout 2025, aim to support businesses in filling critical skill gaps while making New Zealand a more accessible destination for workers across all levels.
As an immigration advisor, I believe these reforms will impact employers struggling to meet strict wage requirements and migrants seeking opportunities to contribute their skills to New Zealand’s economy.
Key Changes to the AEWV Reforms
Several of the announced reforms stand out as pivotal:
Removing the median wage threshold:Â Employers will need to offer the market rate for roles instead of being tied to the median wage.
Reducing experience requirements:Â Migrants now need only two years of experience instead of three, broadening the talent pool.
New seasonal pathways:Â Multi-entry visas for experienced seasonal workers and single-entry visas for lesser-skilled workers address recurring labour needs.
Increased visa duration for ANZSCO Level 4 and 5 workers:Â Visas will now last three years, providing more stability.
Streamlined Job Check process:Â Low-risk employers will benefit from faster processing, starting July 2025.
Extension of interim work rights:Â Migrants transitioning between visas will have better employment continuity.
How These Changes Benefit Employers
For employers, especially those in industries reliant on migrant labour, these AEWV reforms offer much-needed relief. Removing the median wage threshold is perhaps the most impactful change. Previously, businesses in sectors such as agriculture, hospitality, and aged care often struggled to attract workers because they couldn’t afford to meet the median wage requirement. This barrier not only hindered their ability to fill roles but also left many critical positions vacant, impacting productivity and growth.
Now, with the flexibility to offer market-aligned salaries instead of a rigid wage benchmark, employers can focus on finding the right candidates for their business needs. For small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs), this change is particularly significant, as it levels the playing field for competing in the labour market.
The streamlined Job Check process, set to take effect in July 2025, will also save time and resources for employers. Low-risk businesses can expect faster turnaround times, reducing the wait to bring much-needed talent on board.
These AEWV reforms also address long-standing issues with seasonal and lower-skilled roles. Industries with high turnover or seasonal fluctuations, such as horticulture and construction, can now access new visa pathways that better reflect their needs.
Supporting Migrants in Lower-Skilled Roles
One of the most promising aspects of these AEWV reforms is the increased support for migrants in lower-skilled roles. Removing the median wage threshold makes it easier for workers in these roles to secure visas, particularly in industries like caregiving, retail, and food service. These sectors, which often struggle to meet median wage criteria, will now have greater access to the migrant talent they need to thrive.
For migrants, this change is life changing. It opens the door to opportunities that were previously out of reach due to wage restrictions. Workers can now demonstrate their value through experience and skills rather than being filtered out by an arbitrary salary benchmark.
The longer visa durations for ANZSCO Level 4 and 5 workers are another vital reform. Migrants in lower-skilled roles will benefit from greater job security and the ability to plan their lives in New Zealand over a longer term. This stability is crucial not only for the workers themselves but also for their families and the communities they contribute to.
Furthermore, the introduction of new seasonal visa pathways offers options tailored to workers with varying levels of skill and experience. Experienced seasonal workers can now access multi-entry visas, providing greater flexibility, while lesser-skilled workers can take advantage of a single-entry visa option. This diversification recognizes the important contributions of all workers, regardless of skill level, to New Zealand’s economy.
My Perspective: A Step Toward Inclusivity
These AEWV reforms represent a more inclusive approach to immigration, particularly for migrants in lower-skilled roles. By removing barriers like the median wage threshold and extending visa durations, the government is acknowledging the value of all workers—not just those in high-skilled or high-paying roles.
As an immigration advisor, I’ve seen how these barriers have held back both businesses and migrants. Employers often struggle to meet strict wage criteria, while many capable migrants miss out on opportunities due to the arbitrary threshold. These changes strike a better balance, allowing businesses to fill critical roles while giving migrants fair access to opportunities that match their skills.
However, these AEWV reforms also come with the need for careful navigation. Employers and migrants must stay informed about how these changes impact their specific situations. This is where expert guidance can make all the difference.
How We Can Help
At New Zealand Immigration and Employment Solutions, we’re here to help employers and migrants make the most of these AEWV reforms. Whether you’re navigating accreditation, new employees, preparing for the redesigned Job Check, or applying for a visa under the new pathways, we’re committed to simplifying the process and ensuring successful outcomes.
📧 Contact us at info@nzies.co.nz or visit our website to learn more. Let’s work together to make New Zealand’s immigration system work for you—whether you’re a business looking to hire or a worker ready to start your journey.
Remember, immigration policies can change, and this post has up to date information when published. Staying informed and seeking professional advice is crucial to understanding the best and current approach for your unique situation.
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