The New Zealand government has confirmed a major update with the NZ Work Visa Changes October 2025, introducing new regulations aimed at creating a more streamlined, fair, and employer-focused immigration system. These adjustments are set to benefit skilled workers, local employers, and the overall economy by prioritizing genuine labour shortages while closing gaps previously exploited for low-skilled migration.
The NZ Work Visa Changes October 2025 are focused on promoting high-skilled employment, protecting worker rights, and ensuring that immigration policies align with long-term economic goals. As the country recovers strongly from global disruptions and labour shortages in key industries, these changes will make it easier for employers to attract the right talent while ensuring better living and working conditions for migrants.
With the new rules now in effect, current and future applicants must understand the updated framework to ensure they meet eligibility and application requirements.
What Are the Key Work Visa Changes in October 2025?
Immigration New Zealand has rolled out a number of updates under the NZ Work Visa Changes October 2025, impacting several visa categories including the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV), sector agreements, and post-study work rights.
Key changes include
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Employers under the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) must now meet higher standards of labour market testing before hiring migrants
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Wage thresholds for skilled migrant visas have increased to align with median wage benchmarks
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Sector agreements for industries such as construction, aged care, and tourism have been renewed with updated skill shortage lists
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Post-study work rights for international graduates are now limited to qualifications that are directly related to New Zealand skill shortage areas
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Enhanced monitoring and compliance to protect migrant workers from exploitation and unfair treatment
These updates aim to attract skilled professionals while ensuring the local workforce is prioritized where appropriate. It also tightens loopholes that previously led to low-wage job offers or visa misuse.
Who Is Eligible Under the Updated NZ Work Visa 2025 Rules?
With the NZ Work Visa Changes October 2025 in place, eligibility criteria have been slightly modified to ensure that only genuine, qualified applicants are approved for work-based migration.
You are eligible if you
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Have a job offer from an accredited New Zealand employer who has completed recent labour market testing
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Are applying for a role that meets or exceeds the new median wage requirement, currently set at NZD $31.50 per hour
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Possess qualifications or experience relevant to the job and consistent with the applicable sector agreement
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Can provide all required documents, including valid passport, employment contract, and health and character certificates
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Are not in breach of any visa or immigration laws in New Zealand or your home country
These criteria apply across the AEWV and other employer-sponsored routes. Additional requirements may exist for certain roles in healthcare, aged care, engineering, and seasonal work sectors.
Impact on Employers and International Workers
The NZ Work Visa Changes October 2025 have direct implications for both businesses and overseas job seekers. Employers are now required to demonstrate stronger efforts to hire locally and ensure fair wages and working conditions for foreign workers.
For international job seekers, the new rules offer
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Clearer and faster application processing for roles on the skills shortage list
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Increased chances for long-term residence pathways for high-demand jobs
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Improved protections through new compliance mechanisms and monitoring
For employers, these changes mean
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Stricter employer accreditation renewal processes
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Requirements for long-term workforce planning and reduced reliance on temporary visas
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Obligation to report and maintain records related to migrant hiring and wages
While the transition may require adjustments, the long-term result is a more sustainable and transparent immigration system that benefits both employers and skilled migrants.
Post-Study and Partner Visa Adjustments
The NZ Work Visa Changes October 2025 also include changes to post-study and dependent visas, impacting students and their families.
Key updates include
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International students must now graduate in fields directly aligned with New Zealand’s skill shortages to qualify for a post-study work visa
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Spouses and partners of AEWV holders are now granted open work visas only if the principal applicant earns above a set wage threshold
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Family reunification pathways remain open but are subject to updated income requirements and background checks
These rules aim to ensure that only those genuinely contributing to the New Zealand economy and workforce are able to stay and work long-term.
FAQs
What are the NZ Work Visa Changes October 2025?
The changes include updated wage thresholds, tighter employer accreditation checks, changes to post-study work rights, and revised sector agreements for certain industries.
Who qualifies for a work visa under the new rules?
Applicants with a valid job offer from an accredited employer, who meet the new wage and skills requirements, are eligible.
Are post-study work visas still available?
Yes, but only for international graduates who complete qualifications related to shortage areas in New Zealand.
What is the new wage threshold for skilled jobs?
The new minimum wage threshold is NZD $31.50 per hour, aligned with the national median wage.
How do the new rules protect migrant workers?
The government has enhanced compliance monitoring and worker protections, ensuring fair wages, safe conditions, and less exploitation.
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