New measures aim to secure skills needed for New Zealand's economy.
The Government has announced a series of changes to refine the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) system, aimed at securing the skills and experience required by businesses in New Zealand. Immigration Minister Erica Stanford highlighted the importance of a responsive immigration system in rebuilding the economy.
According to Ms Stanford, the median Employer Accreditation processing timeframe has been reduced from 62 calendar days to 14, while productivity in the Job Check process has doubled. Other changes coming into effect from March 2025 include reducing the minimum experience requirement for lower-skilled migrants and increasing visa duration for new applicants in Level 4-5 roles.
Additionally, interim work rights will be extended to AEWV applicants, allowing them to maintain employment while their visa is processed. The labour market test will also be amended to a declaration-based model, requiring employers to advertise with the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) and demonstrate they considered New Zealanders who applied for any role in good faith.
Cabinet has agreed in principle to two new seasonal visas to be implemented in late 2025, which will provide a more nuanced and flexible response to differing business needs. Immigration New Zealand is also undertaking a re-design of the Job Check step of the AEWV process to allow for greater streamlining for low-risk employers.
The changes are part of the Government's efforts to manage migration levels responsibly while attracting higher-skilled workers, ultimately supporting economic growth in New Zealand.