From 18 August 2025, the wage thresholds for the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) will be updated in line with the new median wage of $33.56/hour. These changes are being made to reflect current labour market conditions and ensure the visa system continues to protect New Zealand wages while meeting genuine skill shortages.
Key changes include:
- Earning $67.12/hour or more (2x median wage): You may be exempt from the labour market test and minimum skills requirement.
- Earning $50.34/hour or more (1.5x median wage): You may qualify for the maximum 5-year stay on an AEWV.
These updates could significantly affect your visa eligibility and your pathway to residence. We strongly recommend speaking with a licensed immigration adviser to understand how the new thresholds may impact you—and whether lodging your residency application before the deadline could offer you better options or faster processing.
Get personalised advice on your best move—before the changes take effect.
