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Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has continued to make or propose significant changes in the immigration space including in relation to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV), Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa (SMC), and other categories. We set out some of the most recent updates below:

Market rate replaces median wage for AEWV applications

The AEWV scheme has replaced median wage with market rates. Market rates for different roles will be sourced through recourses such as the Seek Salary Guide, Careers NZ, Hays Salary Guide, as well as other industry specific sources. INZ will check advertised pay ranges to ensure employers are offering at least market rate for roles to meet requirements for Job Check and AEWV applications.

The Median Rate still applies for residence and other categories

The median wage rate of $31.61 per hour will apply to SMC, Green List and sector agreement residence applications.

An increased median wage rate of $33.56 per hour will apply to Parent Category applications and Partnership Work Visa applications supported by migrant workers in certain roles.

Active Investor Plus Balance and Growth Categories

INZ will start to accept Active Investor Plus Balance and Growth Category applications for processing  from 1 April 2025. These new categories will replace the current iteration of the Active Investor Plus category.

As a summary of requirements under these two categories:

Growth

• Invest NZD 5 million in New Zealand for three years. Acceptable investments include Direct Investments or Managed Funds approved by New Zealand Trade and Enterprise.
• Spend 21 days in New Zealand over the three year period.

Balanced

• Invest NZD 10 million in New Zealand for five years. Acceptable investments include: listed equities, philanthropy, new residential property development, new and existing commercial development, Direct Investments and Managed Funds.
• Spend 105 days in New Zealand. The period of stay requirement can be reduced with additional investment of NZD $3 million to provide up to a 42 day reduction.

Standard requirements around health, character, transfer of funds and ability to earn nominated funds will apply however the requirement to meet English requirements has been removed.

Message for Employers

The immigration space continues to change. Our team of specialists are ready to help with bespoke and practical advice and solutions on navigating the tricky immigration landscape. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you need help.

Disclaimer: We remind you that while this article provides commentary on employment law, health and safety and immigration topics, it should not be used as a substitute for legal or professional advice for specific situations. Please seek legal advice from your lawyer for any questions specific to your workplace.