New Zealand launches updated work visa for skilled workers in 2025 

The changes are meant to simplify the process for workers in sectors like healthcare, construction, IT, and manufacturing, offering new opportunities for those seeking to contribute to New Zealand’s economy.

According to DAAD Scholarship, the reforms aim to make it easier for skilled professionals to work in New Zealand. The AEWV, as stated, is a key route for foreign workers to gain employment in New Zealand, but it requires applicants to be hired by accredited employers.

The updated program brings changes that will expand access to these opportunities, simplify the application process, and create new pathways for workers.

The AEWV program will offer positions across various industries facing skill shortages in New Zealand.

Accredited employers are required to meet wage, labor law, and workplace safety standards.

The 2025 reforms, aim to make the AEWV process more accessible. The removal of the median wage threshold means that employers no longer need to meet a strict wage requirement.

Instead, they must offer the market rate for the job and location, making it easier for workers in various regions to apply. Meaning, employers must offer a salary that is consistent with the standard pay rate for that job in the area where the job is located.

This change makes it easier for workers to apply for jobs in different regions of New Zealand, as they will no longer be limited by a strict wage requirement.

Additionally, experience requirements have been reduced from three years to two years, broadening eligibility for more professionals. The introduction of a streamlined job check process in mid-2025 will also make it faster for employers with low-risk profiles to hire foreign workers.

Another significant change is the introduction of seasonal worker pathways, including multi-entry and single-entry visas for agriculture and tourism roles.

These visas will allow temporary workers to stay for up to three years in specific sectors. For lower-skill roles, visa durations will be extended to three years, providing greater job security for workers in these positions.

The application process for the AEWV has been simplified with new steps to ensure faster approval.

If the application is successful, workers can begin their employment in New Zealand.

With more flexible eligibility criteria and streamlined procedures, the 2025 reforms will allow skilled workers to find job opportunities in New Zealand more easily, supporting the country’s ongoing economic growth.

For more information, visit the official New Zealand Immigration website.

For more information, visit the official New Zealand Immigration website.