From 07 April 2024, there are now higher work experience and qualification requirements, a standard of English for people applying to work in roles assessed as ANZSCO skill level 4 and 5, and a shorter stay in New Zealand if you are working in specific roles.

New minimum skill requirement

If you are applying for an AEWV you will need to show evidence of your work experience or qualifications. This is in addition to the skills and qualifications that your employer has identified as necessary for the job and your employer will need to check you meet the skill requirements before they offer you the job. To meet the work experience requirement, you must provide evidence proving you did the work.

Unless your role is on the Green List and meets the Green List role requirements, or is paid at least twice the median wage (currently $59.32 per hour), you must now have:

• at least 3 years’ relevant work experience, or
• a relevant qualification at level 4 or above of the New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework (NZQCF).
Ensure your qualification accompanied by an International Qualification Assessment (IQA) if it is below Bachelor’s degree level.

New English requirement

For ANZSCO level 4 and 5 roles, applicants will now need to provide proof they meet a minimum standard of English.

Maximum continuous stay

For most ANZSCO level 4 and 5 roles, applicants can obtain a maximum of three years’ worth of work visas before having to leave New Zealand for 12 months.
Other roles can obtain a maximum of five years’ worth of work visas before having to leave New Zealand for 12 months.

For expert guidance on your application, reach out to the U Immgration team. We are here to discuss these changes or for answers to any questions you might have.