Immigration New Zealand has confirmed that, from 18 August 2025, the wage thresholds for several visa categories – including the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) – will be updated to reflect the new median wage of $33.56 per hour, as announced in June 2024. The changes are also intended to clarify criteria for certain exemptions.
Under the new settings:
- Migrant workers earning at least twice the median wage ($67.12 per hour) may be exempt from the labour market test and minimum skills assessment.
- Those earning 1.5 times the median wage ($50.34 per hour) may be eligible for the maximum five-year stay on an AEWV.
While the Government states these adjustments aim to protect domestic wage standards and support access to skilled labour, concerns have been raised about their broader impact.
Many employers, particularly in sectors already facing acute skill shortages, are struggling to meet Immigration New Zealand’s escalating requirements. The rising wage thresholds may also place additional pressure on migrant workers, potentially narrowing pathways for those whose skills remain in demand but whose remuneration does not align with the new benchmarks.
There is growing unease that the current trajectory of policy settings may hinder, rather than help, both employers and migrants trying to navigate an increasingly complex and demanding immigration framework.
