Changes to remuneration thresholds for Skilled Migrant and Essential Skills policy
The remuneration thresholds implemented in August 2017 in the Essential Skills Work Visa and Skilled Migrant Category have been revised, effective 15 January 2018. What does this mean for your job search, and could this impact your current situation?
| Threshold | Before 15 January 2018 | From 15 January |
| For skilled employment at ANZSCO 1-3 | $23.49 | $24.29 hourly or $50,523 yearly |
| For skilled employment at ANZSCO 14-5 | $35.24 | $36.44 hourly or $75,795 yearly |
| To earn bonus points | $46.98 | $48.58 hourly or $101,046 yearly |
| Threshold | Before 15 January 2018 | From 15 January |
| For skilled employment at ANZSCO 1-3 | $19.97 | $20.65 hourly or $42,952 yearly |
| For skilled employment at ANZSCO 14-5 | $35.24 | $36.44 hourly or $75,795 yearly |
Why revise the salary thresholds?
Because these thresholds are indexed against the New Zealand median income, they are updated at the end of each year.
What does this mean for my current visa?
If you already hold a visa, this will not affect you, nor the duration or condition of your visa. However, these changes apply to any new visa application, including renewals.
What does this mean for my residence application?
If you have submitted your Expression of Interest prior to 15 January 2018, the old remuneration thresholds will apply.
26/05/2026
NZ Government Expands English Language Requirements for More AEWV Roles
New Zealand is tightening its immigration settings again, this time...
06/05/2026
New NZ Citizenship Test 2027: What Applicants Need to Know
The New Zealand Government has announced a significant change to...
07/04/2026
Family Visa Applications Moving to New Online System from June 2026
Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has confirmed a major change to...
02/04/2026
Easter Traditions in New Zealand: Unique Autumn Customs You Won’t Find Anywhere Else
If you’re moving to New Zealand, one of the first...
19/03/2026
NZ Working Holiday Visa 2026: Opening Dates & Quotas by Country
Immigration New Zealand has officially confirmed the 2026 opening dates...
18/03/2026
New Zealand Open Work Visa Conditions Are Changing — What You Need to Know Before April 2026
Immigration New Zealand has confirmed that employment conditions for open...
17/03/2026
New Zealand’s Immigration Median Wage Rises to $35/hr: A Practical Guide for Employers, Onshore Workers, and Offshore Applicants
From 9 March 2026, New Zealand’s immigration median wage increased...
13/03/2026
NZ Post-Study Work Visa Changes 2026 | What Graduates Need to Know
Big Changes Coming for International Graduates in New Zealand! Immigration...
06/03/2026
Two New Residence Pathways for Skilled Migrants — SMC Changes Taking Effect August 2026
From late August 2026, Immigration New Zealand is introducing two...
18/02/2026
NZ Immigration Update 2026: 47 New NOL Roles & Median Wage Rise
Major changes are coming to the New Zealand immigration landscape....
11/08/2025
New Zealand Seasonal Work Visas 2025: Global Workforce & Peak Seasonal Opportunities
Read more23/07/2025
New Zealand’s Infrastructure Boom and Education Plan Open Doors for Migrants and International Students
Read more16/07/2025
New Zealand Tops the 2025 Global Life‑Work Balance Rankings for Third Year Running
Read more09/07/2025
Upcoming Wage Threshold Changes Could Impact Your Visa Options – Act Before the Cut-Off
Read more02/07/2025
Exciting Changes to the Parent Resident Visa – Reuniting More Families in New Zealand
Read more18/06/2025
Qualification Recognition Made Easier for NZ Visas – New Countries Added from 23 June 2025
Read more13/06/2025
Ten Trade Occupations to Join Green List Work to Residence Pathway in August 2025
Read more16/11/2022


