How New Zealand's Construction Will Be Impacted by Reforms to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) Beginning January 2025

The New Zealand construction industry is poised to experience significant changes with the government’s reforms to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV), starting January 2025. For small to medium-sized construction contractors, these changes bring both opportunities and challenges.

One of the most notable reforms is the removal of the median wage threshold. This adjustment will allow small and medium contractors to hire skilled workers at market-competitive rates without the pressure of meeting a fixed wage benchmark. However, contractors must still offer fair wages that align with their region and job market.

The reduction of experience requirements from three years to two years is another promising shift. This change widens the talent pool, enabling smaller contractors to recruit skilled workers who, despite having slightly less experience, are capable of meeting industry demands.

The introduction of new seasonal visa pathways in November 2025 could be a game-changer for addressing labor shortages during peak construction periods. With options such as the three-year multi-entry visa for experienced workers and a seven-month visa for lesser-skilled workers, contractors can better plan their workforce strategies.

Streamlining the Job Check process, set to roll out in July 2025, will further benefit small contractors by reducing administrative burdens and improving processing times. This is especially important for businesses with limited resources to navigate complex visa requirements.

However, challenges remain. The requirement for AEWV migrants to earn at least NZ$55,844 annually to bring dependents could limit access to family-oriented workers, a consideration that contractors may need to factor into their hiring strategies.

The extension of visa durations for ANZSCO Level 4 or 5 roles to three years is a welcome move, ensuring continuity in staffing and reducing the frequency of visa renewals.

For small and medium contractors, the reforms signal a shift toward a more flexible, responsive immigration system. While these changes address labor shortages, success will hinge on how well contractors adapt to the evolving policies and leverage the new opportunities to support their business growth.

As the reforms unfold, contractors should stay informed and proactive in aligning their hiring practices with the updated visa pathways, ensuring a sustainable and skilled workforce for New Zealand’s construction sector.

Source: New Zealand Government & Immigration New Zealand. More details can be found at:

Understanding the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) in New Zealand

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes and does not constitute immigration advice. Always consult with a professional for specific guidance.

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