Immigration Update – July 2026
Since our last update, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has rolled out a variety of amendments across a range of categories, with more to come.
We have summarised information in respect to some of the changes.
Administrative changes – English language
On 1 June 2026, English language requirements were extended to Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) applications for skill level 3 roles. However, these are not required for the Global Workforce Seasonal Visa, the Peak Seasonal Visa, or for job change applications. Applicants may meet requirements through citizenship, working and studying, or by taking an acceptable English language test.
The amendment does not apply retroactively. Existing visas, employment and lengths of stay, will not be affect while the visa remains valid. Key transitional arrangements are also in place to ensure those currently holding an AEWV are not disadvantaged by the new rules. There will be two exemptions: those currently holding an AEWV expiring on or before 1 December 2026 and applying for a new AEWV for a skill level 3 role are exempt from new requirements, and those currently holding an AEWV who have already provided evidence of English language as part of a previous AEWV application.
Administrative changes – police certificates
On 1 July 2026, INZ provided clarity around processing guidelines for police certificates. Police certificates must be provided upfront and should not generally be substituted by a receipt or confirmation of application.
Where the required police certificate is not included with the application, there is a risk that the vis application will be declined or granted for a shorter period. For onshore applicants who have not yet spent 24 months in New Zealand, a short timeframe (5 working days) may be granted to provide the police certificate.
Changes to the Business Investor Work Visa
Starting 6 July 2026, the range of eligible investments for the Business Investor Work Visa expands to include franchise businesses. Applicants will also be able to purchase nominated businesses through a New Zealand resident entity, and use gifted funds and assets where lawfully earned.
Changes to the Pathway Student Visa
Starting 20 July, Pathway Student Visa conditions will only specify the tertiary qualification and education providers. While Year 12 and 13 students will still need to confirm their subject area, level and provider, this allows Pathway Student Visa holders to change disciplines where approved by the provider, without needing to apply for a new Student Visa.
Where courses form part of a planned study pathway, international students will be able to study up to three courses, one after the other, on the same visa. International students will also be able to use the Pathway Student Visa for study pathways which lead to or move between New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework (NZQCF) levels 1-4, including foundation programmes, vocational certificates, and English language study.
For first time holders moving to NZQCF levels 1-8, the time they may spend studying English before starting their next qualification increases from 20 to 30 weeks. Only eligible education providers can support students for this type of student visa.
Changes to the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa
On 24 August, two new pathways will be introduced under the Skilled Migrant Category, each with its own tailored eligibility criteria. The Trades and Technicians pathway will require those in a specified trade or technical role to have a relevant Level 4 qualification and four years of directly relevant work experience, while the Skilled Work Experience pathway will require five years of relevant skilled work experience. We had previously provided information on these pathways and the new information here is the date the policy comes into effect, which has been confirmed as 24 August 2026.
Introduction of the Short-term Graduate Work Visa
On 16 November 2026, a new post-study work visa will be introduced. A Short-term Graduate Work Visa (SGWV) gives holders six months of open work rights to look for work and transition to an AEWV where appropriate. The visa cannot be extended, and holders cannot apply for a second SGWV, and applications for a SGWV must be made within three months of a New Zealand student visa expiring.
To be eligible for an SGWV, applicants will need to hold an NZQCF qualification at Level 5-7 which was studied full-time in New Zealand for at least 24 weeks. The qualification must not make them eligible for a Post Study Work Visa (PSWV), and must not be an English language, foundation or bridging qualifications.
Applicants will need at least NZD $5000 available to support themselves and must not have held a previous PSWV. Holders of a SGWV will not be able to support a partner work visa or dependent child visas and cannot undertake business ownership.
Changes to the Post Study Work Visa
On 16 November, PSWV eligibility will be extended to graduates who have completed a graduate diploma at NZQCF level 7. Applicants will need to have been enrolled in that qualification and studied full-time in New Zealand for the full duration of the qualification.
They will also need to hold a bachelor’s degree. The bachelor’s degree may be completed in New Zealand or offshore, and there is no time limit on when this was awarded. People who have previously held a PSWV will not be eligible for a second one.
Possible changes to Parent Visas
Parent Category visas remain under review, with announcements expected by the end of August 2026.
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.
