Major AEWV updates from 9 March 2026: median wage increase, 47 new roles, & reclassified occupations
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Immigration New Zealand has announced important updates that will take effect on 9 March 2026. These changes affect both employers and migrant workers, particularly those using or planning to use the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV).
Here’s what’s changing, and what it means for you.
Immigration median wage increasing to $35.00/hour
From 9 March 2026, the immigration median wage increases from $33.56 to $35.00 per hour.
INZ announced late last year that in August 2026, changes will come into effect so that applicants will no longer need to be paid the national median wage which is in effect at the time of application lodgement.
While AEWV no longer requires employers to pay the median wage (market rate applies), several immigration settings are still tied to it.
What this affects:
- Green List pay thresholds
- Advertising exemptions (roles paid at least 2× median wage)
- Some maximum stay rules (roles paid at least 1.5× median wage)
- Income thresholds for supporting partners and children
- Skilled residence wage thresholds
Example changes:
- Skill Level 1–3 partner support threshold increases to $28.00/hour
- Green List partner support threshold increases to $52.50/hour
- Some roles (e.g., teachers) must now be on higher pay steps to remain eligible for residence pathways
47 new roles recognised under the National Occupation List (NOL)
Full list of the 47 newly recognised NOL occupations
From 9 March 2026, the following 47 occupations will be recognised under the National Occupation List (NOL) at Skill Levels 1–3 for Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) purposes.
If your role appears below, it may now be treated differently under AEWV settings. If you are unsure how your job aligns, it is important to check the occupation description carefully before submitting a Job Check or visa application.
If you are hiring or working in one of these roles, the skill level classification may affect advertising requirements, English language requirements, visa length, and family support eligibility. It is important to review your situation carefully before submitting any new applications.
If your role is not listed above, it remains classified under the current settings.
Three roles reclassified to Skill Level 4
The following roles are moving from Skill Level 3 to Skill Level 4:
- Pet groomer
- Nanny
- Kennel hand
Timing matters
- Job Checks submitted on or after 9 March 2026 must meet Skill Level 4 requirements
- Job Checks submitted on or before 8 March 2026 will be assessed under the previous settings
What changes at Skill Level 4?
For employers:
- Longer advertising requirements
- Mandatory engagement with Work and Income (MSD)
For visa applicants:
- English language requirements apply
- Shorter maximum continuous stay
- May affect ability to support partner or dependent visas
If you already hold an AEWV in one of these roles, you are not affected, unless you change visas.
What employers should do now
What visa holders & applicants should do
The bottom line
These changes don’t just update classifications; they also affect:
- Visa length
- Advertising obligations
- English requirements
- Family eligibility
- Residence pathways
If you’re unsure how this affects your specific situation, professional advice can help you avoid costly delays or refusals.
