The government of New Zealand has increased the median wage used to
calculate work visa applications, effective in February 2024.

Currently, the median wage used in work visa calculations is NZ$29.66 per hour (or
approximately NZ$61,683 per year, based on a 40-hour week), by February 2024, this
median wage increases to NZ$31.61/hr, or NZ$65,749 per year. A major concern about
the change in median wage is companies looking to hire immigrants under work visas
will now face increased labor costs.

As mentioned in this earlier
post, the period of validity for Accredited Employer Work Visas (AEWV) has
been increased to a maximum of five years. Individuals currently holding an AEWV can
apply for an extension before November 2023 and lock in the median wage of
NZ$29.66/hour. Their next work visa application though must then meet the higher
median wage requirement.

This immigration update is for informational purposes only and
is not a substitute for legal or scenario-specific advice. Furthermore, it is
important to note that immigration announcements are subject to sudden and
unexpected changes. Readers are encouraged to reach out to Newland Chase for any
case- or company-specific assessments.
Back to News Alerts