Accredited Employers, Brace Yourself - AEWV Changes Ahead

Big changes are coming to New Zealand’s Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV). The government is rolling out a series of reforms throughout 2025, fundamentally shifting the way employers hire and retain migrant workers.

So, what’s changing? From scrapping the median wage requirement to adjusting job check processes, reducing experience thresholds, and introducing new seasonal visa pathways, these reforms are designed to address skill shortages while maintaining fairness in the job market.

In this episode, join host Sanam as she breaks down the key updates, including:

• The end of the median wage requirement and what “market rate” really means for employers
• Changes to the job check process and what it means for recruitment
• New earning thresholds for family sponsorship under the AEWV
• Longer visa durations and interim work rights to provide more certainty
• Construction sector reforms, including a lower local workforce threshold
• Seasonal visa pathways and how they could reshape hiring in 2025

If you employ migrant workers, these changes will affect you. Tune in to get the full breakdown so you can stay ahead of the curve.

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Resources:

• Reforms to Accredited Employer Work Visa announced - Immigration New Zealand
• Accredited Employer Work Visa changes - Dentons Lawyers

Disclaimer: The content presented in this episode is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice. The host does not assume any liability for actions taken based on the content of this podcast. While the host is a lawyer, they are not your lawyer and the information provided is based on general legal information. This podcast does not create a solicitor-client relationship.While we strive to keep the information accurate and up-to-date as at the date of each episode, laws and regulations may change, and the content of this podcast may not reflect the most current legal standards or interpretations. Listeners are encouraged to consult with a qualified New Zealand legal professional for advice tailored to their specific situation.