Key Changes to the AEWV
by | February 25, 2025 | News
Key Changes to the AEWV (Effective from 10 March 2025):
- Removal of Median Wage Requirement
- Employers no longer need to pay AEWV and SPWV holders the median wage.
- Must still pay the New Zealand market rate and at least the minimum wage (NZD $23.50 from 1 April 2025).
- Sector Agreements exempting median wage will be removed.
- Work Experience Requirement Reduced
- Migrants will need 2 years of experience instead of 3.
- MSD Engagement Becomes Declaration-Based
- Employers hiring for low-skilled roles (ANZSCO Level 4 & 5) must declare they engaged with MSD and interviewed candidates but no longer require formal approval.
- Increased Visa Duration for ANZSCO Level 4 & 5
- New AEWVs for low-skilled workers extended to 3 years (matching maximum continuous stay).
- Higher Income Threshold for Supporting Dependent Children
- Increased from NZD $43,322.76 to NZD $55,844 per year.
- Applies to new applicants from 10 March 2025 (existing applicants under old threshold remain unaffected).
- Recognition of Higher ANZSCO Skill Levels
- Certain roles (e.g., cooks, nannies, fitness instructors, scaffolders) will now be classified as ANZSCO Level 3, making it easier for workers in these jobs to qualify for visas.
- Four additional roles (e.g., forklift drivers, excavator operators) will be Level 3 if employers require 3 years of experience or a Level 4 qualification.
Upcoming Changes to Interim Visas (April 2025):
- Interim visas will allow work rights for AEWV applicants if they applied from a work visa or student visa with work rights.
- Time spent on an interim visa will now count towards:
- AEWV total continuous stay
- Work experience for residence pathways
Median Wage Updates (Effective 28 February 2025):
- AEWV holders supporting a partner must meet a new wage threshold: NZD $26.85/hour.
- Income threshold for sponsoring parents (Parent Category) will be based on the new median wage: NZD $33.56/hour.
For more information please visit www.immigration.govt.nz