Move abroad It is a transformative decision, especially for those looking to renew their routine and explore new opportunities. New Zealand became a dream destination for many Argentines who want to start over in a country with an exceptional quality of life and an accessible labor market.
In 2025, the New Zealand government introduced significant changes to its immigration policiessimplifying the process to attract qualified workers. These modifications seek to address labor shortages, offering more flexible conditions for those seeking new job opportunities.
Modifications to the hiring procedure for foreigners in New Zealand by 2025
The average salary requirement is eliminated
From March 2025work visas will no longer be conditional on a specific minimum wage, as established by the AEWV and SPWV visas. Now, employers can set competitive salaries based on market rates, always ensuring a fair remuneration for workers. This change does not affect existing contracts or the salary criteria for residence visas.
Income threshold introduced for immigrants with dependents
For immigrants with children, the new requirement establishes a minimum annual income of 55,844 NZD to obtain the AEWV visa. Although this threshold has not changed since 2019, it ensures that migrant families can support themselves financially in New Zealand while enjoying the benefits of the country.
Work experience requirements are reduced
To facilitate the hiring of qualified workers, the minimum work experience requirement was raised from three to two years. This measure seeks to alleviate the lack of talent in key sectors, expediting access to jobs for immigrants with specific skills.
New visas for temporary workers
New Zealand launched two new types of temporary visas: a visa three year multiple entry for experienced workers and other seven months for less qualified roles. This system will gradually replace existing temporary programs, ensuring an orderly transition.
Visa validity extended for jobs that require fewer skills
The government extended the duration of visas for jobs classified as high-level 4 or 5 in ANZSCO, extending them to three years. Workers with current two-year visas can apply for an additional one-year extension.
Hiring local talent
Eliminated certain prerequisites for employers hiring local talent at entry levels. skill 4 and 5. Now, simply advertise vacancies and interview qualified candidates, without having to comply with the mandatory 21-day period.
Extended temporary work rights for expatriates
From April 2025, the applicants for the AEWV visa With prior permits, such as student visas, they will be able to maintain temporary work rights while they wait for approval of their new visa. This ensures job continuity for expatriates in transition.
Simplified requirements for employers
Accredited seasonal employers will no longer need to complete mandatory online modules. Immigration New Zealand will provide more accessible resources, simplifying the process for these employers.
Reduced domestic labor requirement for certain positions
In sectors such as constructionthe percentage of local workers required will drop from 35% to 15%. This change seeks to alleviate labor shortages in critical areas, accelerating ongoing projects.
Simplifying the immigration process
The government optimized the employment verification and employer accreditation processes, reducing waiting times from 62 days to only 14. This not only benefits companies, but also immigrants who want to quickly enter the labor market.
Source: Ambito
