NZ Accredited Employer Work Visa Raises Wage Threshold to NZ$33.56/hr
From August 18, 2025, the wage threshold under New Zealand’s AEWV program will be updated to reflect the latest median wage, reshaping visa eligibility and employer requirements.
🗓️ Effective: 18 August 2025Reform details & implications
Starting August 18, 2025, the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) program will require new roles to meet or exceed a wage of NZ$33.56 per hour, aligned with New Zealand’s June 2024 median wage. This change affects new AEWV applications and reflects the government’s approach to keep immigration closely tied to evolving labor market conditions.
Key changes
- Labour Market Test (LMT) thresholds: Positions paying 2× median wage (≥NZ$67.12/hr) may bypass local recruitment tests.
- Visa length impacts: Jobs at 1.5× median wage (≥NZ$50.34/hr) could qualify for up to 5-year visas, easing retention planning.
- Green List consistency: Certain in-demand occupations now have explicit wage floors, further aligning with local standards.
Why it matters
By tying visa eligibility to the updated median wage, the policy ensures foreign workers are fairly compensated while safeguarding local job markets from wage undercutting. Employers must now factor these higher thresholds into compensation strategies and future recruitment plans.
Next steps for employers
- ⚠️ Review salary bands to ensure compliance with the new NZ$33.56/hr threshold.
- ✅ Adjust workforce budgets and projections to reflect increased costs for AEWV roles.
- 📄 Prepare documentation on market pay evidence, especially for LMT exemptions.
- 🤝 Communicate early with prospective employees about how the new rates affect visa paths.