Immigration Update - February 2026
Immigration New Zealand (INZ) and the government continue to make changes in the New Zealand visa, employer compliance, and investment visa spaces, we don’t anticipate a slowdown in changes.
Skilled Residence Median Wage
We had set out in our January 2026 update that INZ were looking at a new skilled residence median wage rate. INZ have now advised that from 9 March 2026, the immigration median wage will increase to NZD $35.00 per hour. This will impact all policy that is indexed to the skilled residence median wage rate including e.g. threshold for pay required to support partners and residence policy that references the skilled residence median wage rate.
Further National Occupation List roles introduced under AEWV setting
An additional 47 roles with skill levels 1 to have been introduced under the wider shift from ANZSCO to use of the National Occupation List (NOL) for AEWV applications.
More stringent processing of AEWVs
We are seeing more stringent processing of AEWVs, in particular when INZ assesses work experience documentation provided by applicants. It is possible INZ will continue with more stringent processing of work experience documentation submitted with visa applications.
Changes to Open Work Visa Conditions
From 20 April 2026, newly issued open work visas will have conditions that do not allow them to employ other people—either directly, or indirectly through a business they operate as an owner (including where the business is the named employer). Current conditions around barring open work visa holders from providing commercial sexual services, or to run or invest in a business that provides commercial sexual service will also continue to apply.
In addition, Working Holiday Visa holders will be required to work for a employer, as an employee under an employment agreement or a contract for services. Working Holiday Visa holders will not be allowed to operate a business.
Moving Forward
The New Zealand immigration space continues to change and expect changes across 2026. Our team of specialists are ready to help with bespoke and practical advice and solutions on navigating the tricky and constantly changing immigration landscape. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you need help.
Disclaimer: We remind you that while this article provides commentary on employment law, health and safety and immigration topics, it should not be used as a substitute for legal or professional advice for specific situations. Please seek legal advice from your lawyer for any questions specific to your workplace.
