New Zealand Immigration Update June 2026
This update summarises recent Immigration New Zealand (INZ) announcements relevant to employers and migrant workers. Please contact us if you have questions about how any of these changes may affect you.
1. AEWV: English Language Requirements Extended to Skill Level 3 Roles
In effect from: 1 June 2026
From 1 June 2026, minimum English language requirements under the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) apply to skill level 3 occupations (ANZSCO and National Occupation List). Previously, this requirement only applied to skill levels 4 and 5.
Skill level 3 now represents approximately half of all AEWV applications, making this one of the most significant changes to the AEWV framework this year.
How applicants can meet the requirement
Applicants must demonstrate that they can speak and understand English. This can be shown through:
Citizenship, or work or study experience in a recognised English-speaking country, or
An approved English language test (IELTS, PTE Academic, TOEFL) - minimum equivalent to IELTS 4.0
Transitional exemptions
The following applicants are exempt from the new requirement:
Workers whose current AEWV expires on or before 1 December 2026 and who are applying for a further AEWV at skill level 3,
Applicants who previously provided English language evidence as part of an earlier AEWV application,
Workers on a Global Workforce Seasonal Visa or Peak Seasonal Visa, and
Job change applications
Important for employers: This requirement applies to applications lodged from 1 June 2026, even if the relevant job check token was issued before that date. Factor English language verification into your offshore recruitment process from now on.
2. SMC Changes: Full Details Confirmed for 24 August 2026
In effect from: 24 August 2026
INZ has confirmed the details of changes to the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Resident Visa taking effect on 24 August 2026. These changes were originally announced in September 2025 and introduce new residence pathways designed to better reflect labour market needs and retain skilled migrants in New Zealand.
Confirmed changes include:
New Trades and Technician pathway and Skilled Work Experience pathway,
Red and amber occupation lists that determine eligibility and conditions for each pathway,
Simplified median wage settings across all SMC pathways,
Clarified qualification requirements for claiming points,
Extended English language test validity for some applicants,
A new recognised occupational registration for accountants (CPA Australia), and
A future ability to extend an AEWV to complete skilled work experience requirements
Trades and Technician Pathway
This pathway is for migrants who:
Work in a specified skill level 1–3 trades or technician occupation,
Hold a relevant NZQF Level 4 or above qualification, and
Have at least 4 years of directly relevant experience gained post-qualification, including 1.5 years in New Zealand earning at least the SMC median wage
Skilled Work Experience Pathway (Standard)
For occupations not on the red or amber lists, applicants must:
Be working in a skilled role (ANZSCO skill level 1–3), and
Have at least 5 years of directly relevant work experience, including 2 years in New Zealand earning at least 1.1 times the SMC median wage
Red and Amber List Occupations
Occupations have been assigned to red or amber lists based on evidence of historical immigration risk (including role inflation and fraud indicators).
Red list occupations are not eligible for the two new pathways. Residence is only available under the existing SMC pathway (earning at least 1.5 times the median wage, holding a Bachelor's degree or above, or holding a recognised occupational registration).
Amber list occupations can access the Skilled Work Experience pathway but must have at least 5 years of relevant experience in New Zealand, including 2 years earning at least 1.2 times the SMC median wage. These occupations are also still eligible for the existing pathway.
Wage Requirements Simplified
Migrants will only need to meet the SMC median wage in effect when they start gaining eligible skilled work experience - and maintain at least that rate at the time of application. There is no longer a requirement to meet a higher wage threshold at the residence stage.
If you are currently working in New Zealand on an AEWV and considering a residence application, please contact us now. The August 2026 changes may open a new pathway for you, or impose additional requirements depending on your occupation and experience. Early planning is essential.
3. Family Visa Applications Now Through Enhanced Immigration Online
In effect from: 1 June 2026
From 1 June 2026, family members of temporary visa holders must submit new visa applications through INZ’s enhanced Immigration Online portal. Applications already submitted in the old system will continue to be processed there. If you had a draft application in the old system, you may complete and submit it or start fresh in the new platform.
This change affects a range of family visas including partnership-based visas and dependent child visas linked to temporary visa holders.
4. Increased Enforcement Against Migrant Exploitation
Budget 2026 has allocated NZD$18 million to combat migrant exploitation and immigration non-compliance. New frontline teams will be funded to investigate serious cases and protect vulnerable workers.
This signals a continued government focus on employer accountability. Accredited employers should ensure their employment agreements, pay, and conditions fully comply with their accreditation obligations and the Employment Relations Act. Non-compliant employers risk enforcement action, loss of accreditation, and reputational consequences.
