Wage requirements for the Accredited Employer Work Visa are changing.

The New Zealand Accredited Employer Work Visa will undergo change to its wage requirements, and the new requirements came into effect on 27th February 2023. The median wage for the Accredited Employer Work Visa increased from NZD $27.76 to NZD $29.66 per hour. This change is aimed at ensuring that overseas workers are paid fairly and at the same level as New Zealand citizens and residents.

Employers who support migrants workers for the Accredited Employer Work Visa must now pay their employees the new median wage of NZD $29.66 per hour or the market rate to New Zealand citizens and residents for the same job, whichever is higher (with some exceptions). This requirement applies to most visa applicants including current visa holders whose visas are up for renewal. Most positions exempt from this requirement will need to be paying more on the same date with the exception of some tourism and hospitality positions that will have until April 2023 before increases apply.

The increase in median wage requirements may impact the job market in New Zealand. Some employers may opt to look for alternative visa options, while others may struggle to meet the new wage requirements. However, this change is aimed at promoting fairness and equality in the job market by ensuring that overseas workers are paid the same wage as their New Zealand counterparts.

In conclusion, the increase in median wage requirements for the New Zealand Accredited Employer Work Visa is a step forward in promoting fairness and equality in the job market. The new requirements will impact employers and potential visa holders, but the objective is to make sure that overseas workers are treated fairly and paid at the same level as New Zealand citizens and residents.