From 8 September 2024, an exemption to the AEWV minimum skill requirement will be available for some roles in the following sectors.

Meat and seafood processing

New visa applicants who have been offered a role under the 2024/25 cap in the meat processing or seafood processing sector agreement.

Tourism and hospitality

Existing visa holders with a role in the tourism and hospitality sector that is exempt from paying the February 2023 median wage, if:

• their visa is expiring on or before 31 March 2025
• they are applying for a further 1-year duration AEWV, and
• their application is for the same occupation.

Care workforce

Existing visa holders with a role included in the care workforce sector agreement, if:

• their visa was granted between 4 July 2022 and 23 November 2023
• they were paid at least NZD$26.16 per hour
• they are applying for a further 1-year duration AEWV, and
• their application is for the same occupation.

AEWV roles exempt from paying the February 2023 median wage rate

Sector agreements and hiring migrants on an AEWV

Accredited Employer Work Visa

These changes only exempt AEWV applicants from the minimum skill requirements introduced in April 2024. Applicants will still need to meet any requirements listed by the employer in the Job Check application.

These changes are part of a wider review of the AEWV to ensure it is fit for purpose. Targeted consultation on potential longer-term options to further improve the AEWV will continue throughout the year.