New Zealand’s immigration settings are undergoing major changes affecting Accredited Employer Work Visas, Job Checks, seasonal recruitment, and future Skilled Migrant Category residence pathways. In this comprehensive update, we explain what employers and migrant workers need to know—including the crucial risk for migrants working below the median wage, which may affect their ability to gain residence later. Learn how to stay compliant, retain your workforce, and plan strategically under the new 2025–2026 immigration rules.

The Government has announced two new residence pathways to sit alongside the existing Skilled Migrant Category (SMC), targeted to open from mid-2026. They’re designed to help employers retain proven talent already working here and to recognise trades and technician skills more fairly.

The New Zealand Active Investor Plus Visa Explained by Tatiana Elvery, Licensed Immigration Adviser – Aspiring Immigration

As of March and April 2025, significant changes are coming to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) and other related immigration policies. If you’re an employer, current AEWV visa holder, or planning to apply for a work visa or bring your family with you, these updates will impact your eligibility, visa conditions, and sponsorship abilities.

As a New Zealand Licensed Immigration Adviser, New Zealand employer and former Human resources manager, and migrant myself, I understand that navigating visa changes can be complex. Below, I break down the key updates, what they mean for you, and how to prepare.