New Zealand: Exempt Skill Requirements for AEWV Holders

Key Points  

• New Zealand introduced certain exemptions for holders of Accredited Employer Work Visas 

Overview  

The government of New Zealand announced that starting 8 September 2024, an exemption to the AEWV minimum skill requirement will apply to certain roles in specific sectors: 

• Meat and Seafood Processing: Applicants must ensure they are applying under the 2024/25 cap.
• Tourism and Hospitality: Existing visa holders with roles exempt from paying the February 2023 median wage, whose visas expire on or before 31 March 2025, can apply for a one-year extension if staying in the same occupation. 
• Care Workforce: Existing visa holders under the care workforce agreement, granted visas between 4 July 2022 and 23 November 2023, earning at least NZD$26.16/hour, can apply for a one-year extension if staying in the same role. 

These exemptions apply to the minimum skill requirements introduced in April 2024, while employer requirements from the Job Check must still be met. This change is part of a broader review of the AEWV, with further improvements expected after ongoing consultations. 

Looking Ahead  

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