New Zealand: Changes to Certain Visa Categories

Key Points 

• New Zealand introduced changes to the Skilled Migrant Category Resident visa and the Accredited Employer work visa 

Overview  

The government of New Zealand introduced changes to the Skilled Migrant Category Resident visa and the Accredited Employer work visa (AEWV) on 21 June 2023. These changes include the following: 

• Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa: Beginning 9 October 2023, the current qualification measures will be replaced with a simplified points system that sets clear skills thresholds for residents and offers additional options for demonstrating skills levels.  
• AEWV: From November 2023, the maximum duration of stay under an AEWV will be extended from three years to five years. The government will also introduce a maximum stay period of five years. As a result, foreign nationals will need to spend 12 months outside of New Zealand to reapply for an AEWV.  

For further information on these changes, check here.  

What are the Changes?  

The government of New Zealand will introduce changes under the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa and the AEWV. These measures aim to support the country’s economic growth and to provide more certainty for foreign national employees.   

Looking Ahead  

Continue to check the government of New Zealand’s website and Envoy’s website for the latest updates and information.