In December 2024, Immigration Minister Erica Stanford emphasised the importance of “a responsive immigration system” in rebuilding New Zealand’s economy, unveiling significant changes to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) program. On 27 January 2025, Economic Growth Minister Nicola Willis elaborated on this vision, stating, “The change is part of the Government’s plan to unlock New Zealand’s potential by shifting the country onto a faster growth track.” One notable update is the introduction of provisions for digital nomads and remote workers to operate within New Zealand under new visa conditions.
This article outlines key updates and upcoming changes.
New Visitor Visa Conditions for Digital Nomads and Remote Workers
From 27 January 2025, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) will implement updated visitor visa conditions allowing visitors to work remotely for overseas employers or clients. These conditions apply to all visitor visa holders, including tourists, family visitors, those on longer-term partner or guardian visas, and individuals entering with a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA).
Under these new conditions, visitor visa holders can:
- Stay connected to their work abroad while enjoying New Zealand.
However, they must not:
- Work for a New Zealand employer;
- Provide goods or services to people or businesses in New Zealand; or
- Perform work requiring a physical presence at a New Zealand workplace.
Visitors planning to work remotely in New Zealand for more than 92 days within a year should be aware of potential tax implications.
In cases where individuals do not meet these requirements, they must apply for a relevant work visa or special-category visitor visa. For example, if an elderly person or a young family plans to visit New Zealand with a caregiver or nanny, the caregiver or nanny should apply for a specific purpose work visa (SPWV), not a visitor visa. Services provided within New Zealand are considered work, regardless of whether the employer is based in New Zealand or overseas according to the immigration rules.
If you are uncertain about your individual circumstances, please contact us. Our team will provide tailored advice and a bespoke plan to meet your needs.
Changes to Accredited Employer Requirements
Updates to requirements for accredited employers and Recognised Seasonal Employers (RSEs) will also take effect on 27 January 2025.
Key changes include:
- Employers will no longer need to complete Employment New Zealand’s online modules to hire migrant workers.
- Workers will no longer be required to undertake employee modules.
- Instead, INZ will provide links to information about employment rights and obligations during key stages of the immigration process. Employers must still ensure that migrant workers receive appropriate employment and settlement resources.
Further, the domestic workforce threshold for “triangular” employers hiring workers in certain construction roles will decrease from 35% to 15%. This adjustment aligns with thresholds in other sectors and aims to support the construction industry while maintaining a balance between domestic and migrant employment.
These reforms are part of broader updates to the AEWV programme, designed to meet New Zealand’s labour market needs while promoting domestic workforce inclusion.
2025 Opening Dates for Capped Working Holiday Schemes Confirmed
The 2025 opening dates for capped Working Holiday Schemes have been announced, providing young adventurers with opportunities to plan their New Zealand experiences. You can visit the INZ website for specific details about scheme caps and application deadlines.
If you miss the opening date or are unable to secure a spot, do not hesitate to contact us. Our Immigration Team can create a tailored plan to suit your circumstances and goals.
What is on the Horizon
Several key changes are expected to take place in 2025. Here is what we can look forward to:
- March 2025: The removal of the median wage requirement for AEWV and SPWV holders. However, the market rate for their position and workplace location will still be required.
- March 2025: A new earning threshold of $55,844 per year will be introduced for AEWV holders wishing to bring dependent children.
- March 2025: The experience requirement for AEWV applicants will be reduced from three years to two.
- March 2025: The visa duration for AEWV applicants in low-skilled roles under ANZSCO will be increased to three years.
- March 2025: Work and Income engagement requirements will become declaration-based.
- March 2025: The Active Investor Plus Visa will undergo revisions. The English language requirement will be removed, and additional investment options will be introduced.
- April 2025: AEWV applicants on interim visas will gain work rights while applying for any work visa, or for those transitioning from a student visa that allows work during term time.
- November 2025: Two new pathways for seasonal workers will be introduced. These include a three-year multi-entry visa for experienced workers and a seven-month single-entry visa for lower-skilled workers.
- November/December 2025: A new Parent Boost Visa may be introduced, allowing parents to stay in New Zealand for up to 10 years.
- 2025: The Skilled Migrant Category resident visa and the Green List will be reviewed.
Message to applicants
These updates demonstrate New Zealand’s dedication to driving economic growth while aligning its immigration policies with global trends. For more information or tailored advice, please do not hesitate to contact our team for expert assistance. We are here to help.
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Please note that this article is not a substitute for legal advice and you should contact your lawyer about your specific situation. Please feel free to contact us by email immigration@parryfield.com or by phone 03 348 8480.
31 January 2025
