On 27th February 2023 the New Zealand median wage is increasing to NZD $29.66. This will impact the criteria to be eligible for an Accredited Employer Work Visa, and other visas (including the Skilled Migrant Work Visa, the Green List and Highly Paid Resident Visas) which also have median wage-related criteria.
AEWV Job Checks
If the pay range approved in the job check is below the new wage threshold, the job check can still be used to support a visa application. The employer does not need to re-advertise or submit a new job check.
All job checks submitted from 27 February must meet the new threshold.
AEWV Applications
All AEWV applications submitted from 27 February must meet the new threshold.
Employers must pay AEWV holders at least the wage specified in an approved application.
Industry Sector Agreements
The New Zealand median wage increase will affect the wage thresholds for the construction and infrastructure, meat processing, onshore seafood processing and seasonal snow and adventure tourism sector agreements.
Residence Visas
Residence visa categories and pathways with median wage-related criteria will also be updated. This includes the Green List and Highly Paid pathways, and the Skilled Migrant Category.
To see if this impacts you, take our eligibility assessment or get in touch.
