New Zealand Shores

New, National Occupation List, to replace ANZSCO

fab-admin — Thu, 23 Oct 2025 21:31:44 +0000

The new National Occupation List (NOL) will replace the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO) in a transitional approach as more occupations will be recognised and added to the NOL, and more visa categories will use the new system.

The first major step in this implementation of the NOL outlines occupations eligible for the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV). Jobs are grouped by similar tasks and responsibilities, with skill levels ranging from 1 (most skilled) to 5 (less skilled).

Why is this important?

From November 2025, some NOL occupations are added to the ANZSCO occupations under the AEWV scheme. Applicants must use the NOL occupation code if their job is listed on it. This applies to:

AEWV applications on or after 3 November 2025
AEWV job checks on or after 3 November 2025

If you are currently reaching the end of your AEWV's maximum stay on a low-skilled role, there may be a skilled role in the NOL for you, allowing you to seek an AEWV extension. Your employer will need a new job check and you will need a new visa application. New Zealand Shores can assist with both processes.

Important: If your occupation isn’t on the NOL or you are applying for another visa type, continue to use the ANZSCO list.

NOL occupations that can be used for an AEWV from 3 November

**Table 1: NOL skill level 1 occupations**
NOL code	Occupation
832117	Horticulture Post-Harvest Leading Hand
841227	Fruit Production Leading Hand
841228	Indoor Crop Production Leading Hand
841231	Outdoor Crop Leading Hand

**Table 2: NOL skill level 2 occupations**
NOL code	Occupation
399522	Foley Artist

**Table 3: NOL skill level 3 occupations**
NOL code	Occupation
311113	Irrigation Technician
311417	Calibration Technician
311418	Drug and Alcohol Tester
312917	Wind Turbine Technician
312918	Geothermal Technician
312921	Non Destructive Testing Technician
312922	Irrigation Performance Assessor
312924	Cabinetry CAD Drawer
312925	Joinery Detailer
312926	Lifting Equipment Technician
321112	Electric Vehicle Mechanic or Technician
321215	Bicycle Technician
323114	Vehicle Integration Technician
323216	Agricultural Equipment Technician
323217	Heavy Equipment Technician
323218	CNC Programmer - Solid Timber Joinery
323221	Senior Fleet Tyre Technician
331113	Concreter (Commercial)
331215	Joinery Site Joiner
331216	Joinery Apprentice
331217	Joinery Installer
333312	Waterproofer
361116	Animal Trainer
393214	Milliner
394112	Cabinetry Installer
394215	Joinery Machinist
394216	Joinery Technician
394217	Joinery Practitioner - Generalist
394218	Joinery Finisher
399518	Performing Arts, Entertainment and Events Technician
399921	Fibre Composite Technician
399922	Electronic Security System and Alarm Technician
399923	Snowsport Equipment Technician
411312	Lifestyles Coordinator
411718	Dementia Navigator
423124	Dementia Homeshare Coordinator
423125	Support Worker (Mental Health and Addiction)
423126	Health Coach
431312	Senior Gaming Worker
431413	Concierge
431914	Winery Senior Cellar Hand
451313	Crematorium Technician
452112	Aqua Exercise Instructor
452113	Group Fitness Instructor
452114	Personal Trainer
452218	Adventure Tourism Operator
452326	Tennis Coach - Performance
452415	Athlete
711115	Production Supervisor, Clay, Concrete, Glass and Stone Processing
711315	Production Supervisor, Paper, Pulp and Wood Processing
711517	Production Supervisor, Plastics and Rubber Production
711717	Production Supervisor, Textile and Footwear Production
711915	Hazardous Materials Removalist
712214	Horizontal Direction Drilling Worker
712312	CNC Operator - Solid Timber Joinery
721113	Agrichemical Spraying Operator
721114	Groundspread Nutrient Applicator
731113	Oversize Load Pilot Escort
811212	Power Wash Technician
821413	Solar Installer
821715	Rope Access Technician
821716	Load Lifting Rigger (Rope Fabrication)
831122	Production Supervisor, Food and Drink Processing
831314	Production Supervisor, Meat Processing
831315	Production Supervisor, Poultry Processing
831316	Production Supervisor, Seafood Processing
832116	Horticulture Post-Harvest Supervisor
841112	Aquaculture Farm Supervisor
841218	Field Crop Farm Supervisor
841221	Outdoor Crop Production Supervisor
841222	Fruit Production Supervisor
841223	Indoor Crop Production Supervisor
841224	Vineyard Supervisor
841226	Mixed Crop Farm Supervisor
841314	Forestry Supervisor
841317	Silviculture Operator
841413	Nursery Production Supervisor
841521	Mixed Livestock Farm Supervisor
841526	Beef Cattle Farm Supervisor
841527	Sheep Farm Supervisor
841531	Other Livestock Farm Supervisor
841532	Poultry Farm Supervisor
841533	Senior Piggery Stockperson
841612	Mixed Crop and Livestock Farm Supervisor
841918	Irrigation Manager
899416	Senior Tyre Technician

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Skilled Migrant Category Residence points systems updates for 2026

fab-admin — Mon, 29 Sep 2025 02:02:57 +0000

From mid-2026, the Zealand Government is implementing major updates to the Skilled Migrant Category residency points system.

All of these updates are beneficial to prospective migrants and will make it easier and quicker to move to New Zealand and obtain a resident visa

What is changing in the Skilled Migrant points system in 2026

From August 2026, several updates will make it easier for skilled migrants and international graduates to build a future in New Zealand.

Recognising New Zealand qualifications

Graduates with New Zealand university-level qualifications will now receive higher points, making the transition from study to residence more straightforward. This change aligns with the International Education Plan for Growth, highlighting the value of local qualifications and strengthening New Zealand’s appeal to international students. To claim points for a postgraduate qualification, applicants must also hold an undergraduate degree.

Study in NZ

Streamlined work experience requirements

For most skilled migrant pathways, the required New Zealand work experience will reduce from up to three years to a maximum of two. This shift makes our Skilled Migrant Category more competitive internationally, helping attract and retain top talent.

Simplified wage rules

Migrants will no longer need to meet a higher wage threshold when applying for residence. Instead, they’ll simply need to maintain the median wage throughout their required period of New Zealand work experience.

These updates sit within the Government’s wider Going for Growth programme, which also focuses on refining the Accredited Employer Work Visa, improving education outcomes, and supporting young job seekers into training and employment.

Already in NZ? Contact us!

Still overseas? Get your eligibility assessment!

Summary table of upcoming changes

Points	Current SMC settings	Length of NZ work experience to reach 6 points	New SMC settings	Length of NZ work experience to reach 6 points
6	Qualification: Doctoral degree Registration: New Zealand recognised registration in a specified occupation, requiring at least 6 years’ training Income: Job or job offer that pays at least 3 times median wage	You do not need to claim points from work experience.	Qualification: Doctoral degree or New Zealand master’s degree Registration: New Zealand recognised registration in a specified occupation, requiring at least 6 years’ training Income: Job or job offer that pays at least 3 times median wage	You do not need to claim points from work experience.
5	Qualification: Master’s degree Registration: New Zealand recognised registration in a specified occupation, requiring at least 5 years’ training	1 year	Qualification: Master’s degree gained outside New Zealand, New Zealand bachelor’s degree, honours degree, post-graduate diploma or post-graduate certificate Registration: New Zealand recognised registration in a specified occupation, requiring at least 5 years’ training	1 year
4	Qualification: Honours degree, post-graduate diploma Registration: New Zealand recognised registration in a specified occupation, requiring at least 4 years’ training Income: Job or job offer that pays at least 2 times median wage	2 years	Qualification: Honours degree, post-graduate diploma gained outside New Zealand, bachelor’s degree gained outside New Zealand and post-graduate certificate Registration: New Zealand recognised registration in a specified occupation, requiring at least 4 years’ training Income: Job or job offer that pays at least 2 times median wage	1.5 years
3	Qualification: Bachelor’s degree or post-graduate certificate Registration: New Zealand recognised registration in a specified occupation, requiring at least 2 years’ training Income: Job or job offer that pays at least 1.5 times median wage	3 years	Registration: New Zealand recognised registration in a specified occupation, requiring at least 2 years’ training Income: Job or job offer that pays at least 1.5 times median wage	2 years
Does not apply	Wage assessment Relevant wage rate assessed at start of required New Zealand work experience and at residence application.	Does not apply	Wage assessment Removed requirement for relevant wage to be met when applying for residence. Instead, relevant wage rate must be maintained throughout the required period of NZ work experience through to residence.	Does not apply

Already in NZ? Contact us!

Still overseas? Get your eligibility assessment!

The post Skilled Migrant Category Residence points systems updates for 2026 appeared first on New Zealand Shores.

New Skilled Residence Pathways Coming to New Zealand in 2026

fab-admin — Mon, 22 Sep 2025 20:52:48 +0000

From mid-2026, the New Zealand Government will introduce two new residence options to help businesses hold on to the talent they need, while giving skilled migrants faster and fairer ways to secure a future here.

At New Zealand Shores, we know how attractive these pathways will be—and how important it is to get your eligibility and documentation right from the start. Our team of licensed immigration advisers can guide you through the process step by step, ensuring you’re ready to apply as soon as the categories open.

Already in NZ? Contact us!

Still overseas? Get your eligibility assessment!

The New Pathways at a Glance

In addition to the general health and character requirements, each pathway will have a specific set of prerequisites. Certain occupations may also have additional, specific requirements.

1. Skilled Work Experience Pathway

The Skilled Work Experience pathway rewards people who have already proven their value in New Zealand workplaces.

Open to migrants in skilled roles with five years of directly relevant work experience.
At least two of those years must be in New Zealand, with pay at 1.1x the median wage or higher.

2. Trades and Technician Pathway

For migrants in specified trades and technical occupations, the Trades and Technician pathway reflects the importance of practical skills and qualifications in industries where sub-degree training is essential.

Requires a Level 4 or higher qualification.
At least four years of post-qualification experience, including 18+ months in New Zealand at or above the median wage.

Immigration Minister Erica Stanford says the approach balances attracting talent with protecting opportunities for locals:

“This is about helping businesses fill genuine skills gaps so they can grow, while making sure New Zealanders are first in line for jobs.”

Additional eligibility rules will apply to certain occupations.

More Incentives for Students and Graduates

The Government is also shortening the work experience requirement for migrants with New Zealand university qualifications, making it quicker for graduates to secure residence. This is designed to encourage talented students to study here—and continue contributing after they graduate.

Study in NZ

Why Act Now?

Immigration changes often bring strict requirements and limited windows of opportunity. By preparing early, you’ll avoid last-minute stress and give yourself the best chance of success.

When you contact New Zealand Shores, you’ll get:

A personalised eligibility assessment based on your background and goals.
Expert advice on how to position your work experience and qualifications for the new categories.
A streamlined documentation process to ensure your application is complete, accurate, and ready to submit without costly delays.
Ongoing guidance so you’re not just eligible—but competitive.

Secure Your Future in New Zealand

Don’t leave your residency to chance. Whether you’re an individual migrant, a graduate planning to stay, or an employer wanting to retain valued staff, New Zealand Shores can help you prepare now for the opportunities ahead.

The post New Skilled Residence Pathways Coming to New Zealand in 2026 appeared first on New Zealand Shores.

Business Investor Visa NZ 2025 | Fast-Track to Residence

fab-admin — Tue, 26 Aug 2025 23:34:01 +0000

The new New Zealand Business Investor Visa opens in November 2025, giving investors a choice of a $1m 3-year pathway or a $2m 12-month fast-track to residence. Applicants can buy or part-own an existing business and become eligible for the Business Investor Resident Visa. Our migration specialists can guide you through every step.

Invest in New Zealand. Secure Your Future.

New Zealand is opening new doors for international investors. From November 2025, the Business Investor Work Visa offers two clear pathways to residence:

$1 million investment – a 3-year work-to-residence pathway
$2 million investment – a 12-month fast-track to residence

You can buy a business outright or acquire a 25%+ stake, and both options make you eligible to apply for the Business Investor Resident Visa.

The bottom line

Why wait? Contact our Business Migration Specialists today. This new visa category is a fantastic fast-track pathway to residency. We’ll guide you through the process, connect you with the right opportunities, and help you secure your place in New Zealand’s future.

The post Business Investor Visa NZ 2025 | Fast-Track to Residence appeared first on New Zealand Shores.

New Zealand Seasonal Work Visas 2025: Global Workforce & Peak Seasonal Opportunities

fab-admin — Mon, 11 Aug 2025 04:58:51 +0000

If you’ve ever dreamed of living in New Zealand, now might be your moment. To help fill crucial skills gaps during peak seasons, the Government is launching two exciting new visa options under the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) programme — opening 8 December 2025.

These visas are designed to connect global talent with short-term but highly in-demand jobs in industries like agriculture, horticulture, tourism, wine, adventure sports, and more. For the right applicants, they can be a stepping stone to longer-term opportunities in Aotearoa.

Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV)

For experienced, skilled seasonal workers — up to 3 years

Who it’s for: People with proven seasonal expertise — at least 3 seasons in the past 6 years — in roles such as snow sports instructor, winemaker, agricultural technician, outdoor adventure guide, or shearer.

Key benefits:

Valid for up to 3 years.
No Labour Market Test or English requirement.
Option to transition to other visa types.
A wide range of unique, often outdoors-based roles.

It's important to know that you must spend at least 3 months outside NZ each year to renew.

Peak Seasonal Visa (PSV)

The Peak Seasonal Visa is for entry-level or lower-skilled seasonal workers and will be granted for up to 7 months.

It is for people with at least 1 season of relevant experience in the past 3 years in roles like mussel farm worker, calf rearer, forestry worker, meat process worker, or winery cellar hand.

Key benefits:

Fast-track into industries where demand is highest.
No English requirement.
A great way to experience life in New Zealand while building industry contacts.

Note that after 7 months, you must take a 4-month break before reapplying, and you’ll need health insurance.

Why You Shouldn’t Apply Alone

While these visas open the door to exciting seasonal opportunities — and potentially to future, longer-term stays — meeting the eligibility criteria is critical. Immigration rules can be complex, and small mistakes can derail your application.

That’s why it’s so important to work with a licensed immigration adviser. They’ll:

Confirm your role meets the official “seasonal” definition.
Ensure your experience matches immigration requirements.
Guide you through the application process to avoid costly delays or rejections.

A licensed professional can also advise on your future pathways — for example, how seasonal work might help you qualify for a longer-term or resident visa.

The bottom line

New Zealand’s new seasonal visas offer an incredible chance to work, earn, and experience one of the most beautiful countries on Earth — all while contributing valuable skills. With expert immigration guidance, you can make sure you meet every requirement, maximise your options, and set yourself up for the next chapter of your Kiwi journey.

The post New Zealand Seasonal Work Visas 2025: Global Workforce & Peak Seasonal Opportunities appeared first on New Zealand Shores.

Faster, Easier Registration in New Zealand for Overseas-Trained Doctors

fab-admin — Sat, 02 Aug 2025 02:04:00 +0000

The Medical Council of New Zealand (MCNZ) has introduced major updates to streamline the registration process for overseas-trained doctors. These changes are designed to strengthen the healthcare workforce and make it easier for qualified doctors to live and work in New Zealand.

At New Zealand Shores, we welcome this news especially as doctors remain on New Zealand's Green List, giving them a direct pathway to residency.

What's Changing?

1. Fast-Track Registration for GPs

General Practitioners (GPs) trained in the United States, Canada, and Singapore can now access a new fast-track pathway. Applications for provisional vocational registration will be processed within two months.

2. New Comparable Health Systems

Doctors with recent clinical experience in Chile, Luxembourg, and Croatia are now eligible for registration via the Comparable Health System pathway. This pathway now includes 29 countries in total, following the recent addition of Japan and South Korea. Applications under this pathway are usually processed within 20 working days, and require a job offer in New Zealand.

3. Faster Pathways for Specialists

Overseas-trained specialists from the UK, Ireland, and Australia already benefit from fast-track assessments. These cover key fields such as anaesthesia, dermatology, emergency medicine, general practice, internal medicine, pathology, and psychiatry. Assessment times are now reduced to just 20 working days.

Specialists from other countries applying through the provisional vocational registration pathway will see faster processing too, within three months.

Why Is This Important?

New Zealand's health system is under significant pressure, with high demand for doctors across urban, regional, and rural areas. Internationally trained doctors already make up over 40% of New Zealand's medical workforce, one of the highest proportions in the OECD.
By expanding comparable health systems and introducing fast-track registration, New Zealand aims to attract and retain the talent it urgently needs.

Registration + Visa Pathways

While registration is essential to practise in New Zealand, overseas doctors must also secure the right visa. The good news is that doctors are on the Green List, which offers:

Straight-to-Residence Visa: Apply for residency immediately when offered a role in New Zealand.
Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV): A fast and flexible pathway to work in New Zealand, with clear progression to residence.
Pathways for family: Eligible partners and dependent children can join you.
This combination of streamlined registration and priority visa processing makes now the ideal time for doctors to explore opportunities in New Zealand.

How New Zealand Shores Can Help

At New Zealand Shores, we specialise in supporting healthcare professionals through both the registration process and the immigration journey.
We can help you:

Understand your eligibility under the new MCNZ pathways
Secure an AEWV or residency visa under the Green List
Connect with healthcare employers across New Zealand
Relocate smoothly with your family

Start your free eligibility assessment today

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New Zealand’s Infrastructure Boom and Education Plan Open Doors for Migrants and International Students

fab-admin — Wed, 23 Jul 2025 06:23:12 +0000

The New Zealand government has announced two major initiatives that together signal a clear message: Aotearoa is open for growth, talent, and long-term migration.

Massive Infrastructure Investment to Create Thousands of Jobs in New Zealand

The New Zealand government is investing billions in national infrastructure projects—upgrading roads, public transport, housing, water systems, and hospitals. These projects will create tens of thousands of new jobs across the country.

Aotearoa is open for growth, talent, and long-term migration

This is a golden opportunity for skilled migrants in engineering, construction, trades, IT, logistics, and project management. These jobs are closely aligned with New Zealand’s long-term immigration strategy, meaning visa pathways are being streamlined to meet demand and we are already seeing meaningful additions to the New Zealand Green list.

Eligibility assessment

New International Student Strategy Offers Pathways to Work and Residency

At the same time, the government is moving to supercharge its international education sector, aiming to more than double the number of international students over the next decade. With a new strategic plan to increase enrolments and strengthen support pathways, international learners will find clearer routes from study to skilled employment and ultimately, to residency. The education sector is being positioned not just as an export, but as a cornerstone of long-term workforce development.

For anyone looking to study in New Zealand as a pathway to permanent residency, the timing couldn’t be better. These policies align to create a favourable environment where students can transition into high-demand jobs—many of which are directly tied to the infrastructure push—and then apply for long-term visas under New Zealand’s evolving immigration settings. And Immigration New Zealand has already taken a few steps towards positive updates to student working rights.

Study, Work, and Settle in New Zealand: Your Pathway Starts Here

In short, whether you’re planning to bring your skills directly into the workforce or come to study and settle, New Zealand is actively making space for you.

Whether you're:

A skilled worker looking for stable, long-term employment
A student planning to gain qualifications and settle
A family exploring relocation and permanent residency options

These policy shifts show that New Zealand is actively making space for new talent and future citizens.

Now is the ideal time to begin your journey—through education, employment, or both

Eligibility assessment

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Study & Earn More in New Zealand – Student Visa Update (Nov 2025)

fab-admin — Fri, 18 Jul 2025 04:21:47 +0000

Starting 3 November 2025, you’ll have the freedom to work up to 25 hours/week during term time—up from the current 20-hour cap—creating more possibilities to support your studies and lifestyle in New Zealand

Why This Matters for You

Boost your income: Earn extra during term time—without interrupting your studies.
Seamless support: Already hold a 20‑hour visa? Apply for a variation or new visa to upgrade smoothly.
Extended opportunity: Now applies to tertiary & senior secondary students — just ensure you discuss the requirements with us!
Stronger student experience: This change reflects New Zealand’s aim to double its international education market by 2034 as part of the “International Education Going for Growth Plan”.

Watch on Youtube

How you can benefit from this

Mark your calendar – New cap effective from 3 Nov 2025
Check your visa – Already on a 20-hour course? Apply for a variation or fresh visa
Get permissions – If in Year 12 or 13, obtain approval from school and parents. New Zealand Shores can discuss these steps with you.
Plan your career – More work hours mean more networking & CV-building opportunities

More Than Just Work Hours — A Vision for Growth

Launchpad for a Long-Term Plan

The shift to allow eligible student visa holders to work up to 25 hours per week from November 2025 is a key early step in New Zealand’s “International Education: Going for Growth Plan”, officially unveiled in July 2025. Its aim is to double the economic value of international education from NZ$3.6 billion in 2024 to NZ$7.2 billion by 2034

Concrete Targets Driving Policy

Increase student enrolments from ~83,700 in 2024 → 105,000 by 2027 → 119,000 by 2034
Raise global awareness of NZ as a study destination—from 38–40% in 2024 → 44% by 2034
Grow the share of prospective students ranking NZ in their top‑3 study destination choices from 18% → 22% over the same period.

The government also plans to streamline multi-year student visa applications and consider a short-duration work visa (up to six months) for some international graduates to transition into the AEWV (Accredited Employer Work Visa) pathway

Strategic Context

New Zealand is positioning itself strategically in the face of tightening policies in key competitor countries (e.g. U.S., Australia), which are limiting foreign student enrolments. NZ aims to fill that gap by making itself a more flexible, welcoming, and attractive alternative for international learners .

Together, these steps signal that this isn’t a one-off tweak—it’s a deliberate, multi-layered government push aimed at turning New Zealand into a top international education destination and doubling its sector value by 2034.

The post Study & Earn More in New Zealand – Student Visa Update (Nov 2025) appeared first on New Zealand Shores.

New Zealand Tops the 2025 Global Life‑Work Balance Rankings for Third Year Running

fab-admin — Tue, 15 Jul 2025 21:17:39 +0000

New Zealand has claimed the number‑one spot in the Global Life‑Work Balance Index 2025, scoring 86.87 out of 100, and retaining its crown for the third consecutive year. This performance places it 5.7–6 points ahead of second‑placed Ireland, underscoring the country’s leadership in work‑life balance globally.

Key Factors Behind New Zealand's Leading Position

Statutory annual leave: Kiwis enjoy 32 days paid leave, one of the most generous worldwide.
Paid maternity leave: Up to 26 weeks at full pay, supporting new parents.
Minimum wage: A relatively high floor (around USD 16.42/hour), which helps drive economic fairness.
Universal healthcare, public safety, public happiness, and favourable average work hours further boost its score.

Global Comparisons: Europe and APAC Leaders

Top 10 Countries for Work‑Life Balance in 2025

New Zealand
Ireland
Belgium
Germany
Norway
Denmark
Canada
Australia
Spain
Finland

Notably, seven out of the top 10 are European nations, reflecting strong social protections, generous parental leave, healthcare access, and high minimum wages across the continent.

Are you eligible?

APAC Highlights

New Zealand leads the Asia–Pacific region.

Australia ranks 8th globally, with the highest minimum wage in the world (about USD 18.12/hour) and fairly short working hours (~32.3 hours/week).

Singapore ranks around 25th, with recent improvements in maternity leave.

Trends & Notable Changes

Argentina saw a big rise in ranking—moving from 19th to 14th—thanks to a minimum wage increase and gains in public happiness.

The United States tumbled further, now 59th out of 60 countries, due to declining public safety and LGBTQ+ inclusion scores (it was already low-ranked in prior years).

The UK improved by 4–4.5 points, just missing the top 10 after better minimum wage and reduced working hours.

Why This Matters

Work‑life balance (or the life‑work balance concept, which prioritises life first) is more than a buzzword. The Global Life‑Work Balance Index uses robust metrics—including legislative protections like annual leave, sick leave, paid parental leave, as well as healthcare, safety, and social wellbeing—to compare nations holistically.

According to Remote (the HR platform behind the index), a balanced work‑life environment correlates with higher employee satisfaction, better mental health outcomes, and greater overall productivity and social cohesion.

Ready to move to New Zealand? Take our eligibility assessment or contact us today!

The post New Zealand Tops the 2025 Global Life‑Work Balance Rankings for Third Year Running appeared first on New Zealand Shores.

Upcoming Wage Threshold Changes Could Impact Your Visa Options – Act Before the Cut-Off

fab-admin — Tue, 08 Jul 2025 22:04:46 +0000

From 18 August 2025, the wage thresholds for the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) will be updated in line with the new median wage of $33.56/hour. These changes are being made to reflect current labour market conditions and ensure the visa system continues to protect New Zealand wages while meeting genuine skill shortages.

Key changes include:

Earning $67.12/hour or more (2x median wage): You may be exempt from the labour market test and minimum skills requirement.
Earning $50.34/hour or more (1.5x median wage): You may qualify for the maximum 5-year stay on an AEWV.

These updates could significantly affect your visa eligibility and your pathway to residence. We strongly recommend speaking with a licensed immigration adviser to understand how the new thresholds may impact you—and whether lodging your residency application before the deadline could offer you better options or faster processing.

Get personalised advice on your best move—before the changes take effect.

The post Upcoming Wage Threshold Changes Could Impact Your Visa Options – Act Before the Cut-Off appeared first on New Zealand Shores.

New Zealand Shores

New, National Occupation List, to replace ANZSCO

Why is this important?

NOL occupations that can be used for an AEWV from 3 November

Skilled Migrant Category Residence points systems updates for 2026

What is changing in the Skilled Migrant points system in 2026

Recognising New Zealand qualifications

Streamlined work experience requirements

Simplified wage rules

Summary table of upcoming changes

New Skilled Residence Pathways Coming to New Zealand in 2026

The New Pathways at a Glance

1. Skilled Work Experience Pathway

2. Trades and Technician Pathway

More Incentives for Students and Graduates

Why Act Now?

Secure Your Future in New Zealand

Business Investor Visa NZ 2025 | Fast-Track to Residence

Invest in New Zealand. Secure Your Future.

The bottom line

New Zealand Seasonal Work Visas 2025: Global Workforce & Peak Seasonal Opportunities

Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV)

Key benefits:

Peak Seasonal Visa (PSV)

Key benefits:

Why You Shouldn’t Apply Alone

The bottom line

Faster, Easier Registration in New Zealand for Overseas-Trained Doctors

What's Changing?

1. Fast-Track Registration for GPs

2. New Comparable Health Systems

3. Faster Pathways for Specialists

Why Is This Important?

Registration + Visa Pathways

How New Zealand Shores Can Help

New Zealand’s Infrastructure Boom and Education Plan Open Doors for Migrants and International Students

Massive Infrastructure Investment to Create Thousands of Jobs in New Zealand

New International Student Strategy Offers Pathways to Work and Residency

Study, Work, and Settle in New Zealand: Your Pathway Starts Here

Study & Earn More in New Zealand – Student Visa Update (Nov 2025)

Why This Matters for You

How you can benefit from this

More Than Just Work Hours — A Vision for Growth

Launchpad for a Long-Term Plan

Concrete Targets Driving Policy

Strategic Context

New Zealand Tops the 2025 Global Life‑Work Balance Rankings for Third Year Running

Key Factors Behind New Zealand's Leading Position

Global Comparisons: Europe and APAC Leaders

Top 10 Countries for Work‑Life Balance in 2025

APAC Highlights

Trends & Notable Changes

Why This Matters

Upcoming Wage Threshold Changes Could Impact Your Visa Options – Act Before the Cut-Off

New Zealand Tops the 2025 Global Life‑Work Balance Rankings for Third Year Running