This government has finally listened to the advice provided by various industry organisations and
made it more practical to hire migrant workers and retain them. Additionally, the changes to the skill
levels of certain occupations will bring much needed relief to certain migrant workers like cooks.
While the space constraints will not allow me to discuss all the announced changes, I have
mentioned those which, in my opinion, will have the most impact.
Making recruitment practical
From 10 March 2025, employers will no longer need to pay the median wage if they wish to hire a
migrant worker. They cannot offer a wage less than the minimum wage (currently $23.15/hour, and
$23.50/hour from 1 April 2025.
Employers will now need to pay migrant workers the market rate for the job. If you are employer,
you will need to research what the market rate is for the position you wish to hire for and take into
consideration factors such as the complexity of the role, size of their business, the region of work
etc. You may refer to the various salary guides available online.
Removal of Sector Agreements
All sector agreements (for example construction and infrastructure, hospitality and tourism, etc.)
which provided an exemption from the median wage will be removed. Workers in certain roles like
commercial housekeeper, fast food cook, Hotel/Motel Managers, plasterers, metal fabricators, tilers,
welders, carpenters etc. will now become eligible for 36 months of stay in New Zealand, as opposed
to 24 months, before having to spend 12 months outside the country.
This change will make it easier for businesses to retain existing staff, improve productivity, and
maintain the continuity of operations.
More migrant workers will now be considered in skill levels 1-3 Migrants working as cooks, nannies, fitness instructors, scaffolders, slaughterers, pet groomers, and
kennel hands will now be upgraded to skill level 3. This change will particularly be of interest to
those readers who own ethnic restaurants and takeaways. The cooks whom they hired can now
work for a maximum of five years (instead of three), do not have to sit for an English test to renew
their AEWV visa, and can also support applications of their spouse and kids. All skill level 1-3 workers
who earn a minimum of $26.85/hour will now be eligible to support their partners.
This is an indication that the government realises the contribution of these workers towards the
multi-cultural ethos of our country.
Reducing the Minimum Skills Threshold
From 10 March 2025, AEWV applicants will need to show only two years of relevant work experience
to meet the minimum skills threshold. This was previously set at three. They will still need to meet
the requirements set by the employer in terms of qualifications and/or work experience.
These changes will go a long way in supporting businesses that are already struggling because of the
state of our economy and also bring a cheer to thousands of migrants who are positively affected.
This government remains committed to streamlining the accreditation and AEWV process.
(Hemant Kaushal is a Licensed Immigration Adviser who runs his own practice in Auckland. His practice handles various simple and complicated immigration matters. Nothing in this article constitutes immigration advice and we strongly recommend you consult a Licensed Immigration Adviser or a lawyer to discuss your specific circumstances.)
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