Removal of Median Wage Requirement for Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)

In a significant policy update, the New Zealand Government has announced the removal of the median wage threshold for Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) applications, effective March 2025. This change is part of a broader effort to refine the immigration system to better support businesses while ensuring a balanced and fair approach to employment opportunities for both New Zealanders and migrants.

In a significant policy update, the New Zealand Government has announced the removal of the median wage threshold for Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) applications, effective March 2025. This change is part of a broader effort to refine the immigration system to better support businesses while ensuring a balanced and fair approach to employment opportunities for both New Zealanders and migrants.

Immigration Minister Erica Stanford emphasized that this adjustment aligns with the coalition agreement with ACT, moving away from the previous system that relied on the median wage as a measure of skill.

Why the Change?

The median wage requirement was initially introduced to prioritize skilled migration. However, it had unintended consequences, including:

  • Distorting wages in certain sectors, sometimes requiring businesses to pay migrant workers more than their Kiwi counterparts for the same roles.
  • Forcing some businesses to increase prices to maintain pay equity between New Zealanders and migrants.

“Wage thresholds were being used as an artificial proxy for skill, which simply didn’t work,” Minister Stanford stated. “This policy shift ensures a more practical and business-friendly approach while maintaining fairness in pay practices.”

What Does This Mean for Employers?

While the median wage threshold will no longer apply, employers must still meet important conditions when hiring AEWV workers, including:

  • Advertising job vacancies locally and offering the market rate for positions based on their role and location.
  • Ensuring compliance with existing employment agreements and immigration policies.

These measures aim to strike a balance between prioritizing job opportunities for New Zealanders and meeting the needs of businesses requiring overseas talent.

No Impact on Residency Pathways

The removal of the median wage threshold does not affect the wage requirements for AEWV holders seeking residency. Separate criteria will continue to apply to residence visa pathways, maintaining consistency and clarity for migrants planning long-term settlement in New Zealand.

VisaSector’s Commitment

At VisaSector, we understand how critical these changes are for employers and migrants alike. We’re here to help navigate the evolving immigration landscape, ensuring compliance while optimizing opportunities for businesses and individuals.

For more information on how this policy update may affect your visa or recruitment plans, contact VisaSector today!