AEWV Work Visa Changes: What New Zealand Employers Need to Know

The government promised to implement several changes to the AEWV work visa policy throughout 2025. Here is phase 2.

Changes Effective from 10th March 2025

The below changes come into effect on 10th March 2025:

Median Wage Threshold Scrapped

Employers hiring under the AEWV and Specific Purpose Work Visa policy will no longer be required to pay the median wage of $29.66 per hour. Instead, there will be no set pay thresholds except the New Zealand minimum wage (currently ND $23.15 an hour, increasing to ND $23.50 an hour on 1 April).

New Earning Threshold for Those Supporting Dependents

AEWV holders who want to support a partner or child will be required to meet the wage threshold, which is increasing to ND $26.85 an hour.

Reducing the Work Experience Requirement for an AEWV

The work experience requirement for migrants has been reduced from 3 years to a minimum 2-year threshold.


If you need help understanding the changes get in touch with our team at
admin@corporatevisas.co.nz