New Zealand's New Visa Reforms : A Boon for Indian Job Seekers

Key Visa Changes in 2025

1. No More Median Wage Restriction
Previously, New Zealand's immigration policies required employers to offer at least the median wage to foreign workers, ensuring fair pay but limiting recruitment flexibility. With this restriction removed, employers will now have the ability to offer wages based on industry standards, skill levels, and the availability of local talent. While fair compensation remains a priority, this change allows businesses to attract the right talent without being bound by rigid wage requirements. For Indian professionals, this means a broader range of job opportunities across various industries.

2. Lower Work Experience Requirement
Until now, foreign workers needed a minimum of three years of work experience to qualify for many skilled roles in New Zealand. From 2025, this requirement will be reduced to just two years. This change is especially beneficial for younger professionals or those who have the necessary qualifications but haven't had the opportunity to gain extensive work experience. By lowering this barrier, New Zealand is expanding opportunities for Indian job seekers who may have struggled to meet the previous criteria despite possessing valuable skills and expertise.

3. Extended Visa Durations
Workers in jobs categorized under skill levels 4 or 5 will now be eligible for three-year visas instead of the previous two-year limit. This policy shift offers greater stability to migrant workers, allowing them to establish themselves in New Zealand without the constant worry of visa renewals. A longer visa period also means more time to gain local work experience, which could eventually improve eligibility for permanent residency. For Indian professionals seeking long-term career growth, this policy update provides a significant advantage by reducing administrative hurdles and increasing job security.

4. New Seasonal Worker Visas
To address labor shortages in industries reliant on seasonal work, New Zealand is introducing two new visa options tailored for temporary workers:
1. Three-year multi-entry visa – Designed for experienced seasonal workers, this visa allows individuals to enter and exit New Zealand multiple times over a three-year period. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for workers in industries such as agriculture, horticulture, and hospitality, where demand fluctuates seasonally.
2. Seven-month single-entry visa – Aimed at lower-skilled seasonal workers, this visa permits entry for up to seven months, ensuring that industries dependent on short-term labor can meet their workforce needs effectively. This option is ideal for those seeking temporary work in New Zealand before returning to their home country.
By introducing these visa options, New Zealand is ensuring a steady supply of workers for key industries while also providing Indian job seekers with new avenues to gain international work experience.

5. Work Rights While Awaiting Visa Approval
One of the biggest challenges for migrants has been the uncertainty during the visa transition period. Previously, workers switching to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) had to stop working while their applications were being processed, leading to financial strain and employment disruptions. From April 2025, this will change—migrants will now be allowed to continue working while their AEWV application is under review. This new policy eliminates employment gaps, reduces stress for job seekers, and ensures a seamless transition between visas. For Indian professionals, this is a crucial reform that prevents unnecessary career setbacks and financial difficulties.

6. Faster Hiring Process
Employers hiring for roles under skill levels 4 or 5 will no longer be required to wait 21 days after advertising a position before hiring foreign workers. Previously, this waiting period delayed recruitment and slowed down hiring processes, making it difficult for businesses to fill urgent vacancies. While job advertising and interviews will still be necessary, the elimination of this mandatory waiting period means that companies can now onboard skilled workers much faster.
(Skill levels 4 and 5 in ANZSCO typically refer to roles requiring minimal formal education, often involving short-term on-the-job training or a high school qualification.)
For Indian job seekers, this means quicker hiring decisions and fewer delays in securing employment.

7. Minimum Income Requirement for Bringing Children
To ensure financial stability for migrant families, New Zealand has introduced a minimum income requirement for workers wishing to bring their children. From 2025 onward, migrants must earn at least NZ$55,844 per year to sponsor their children’s stay. This measure is designed to ensure that migrant families can afford housing, education, and healthcare without relying on government assistance.
For Indian families planning to relocate together, this requirement emphasizes the importance of securing well-paying jobs before moving to New Zealand. It also highlights the country’s commitment to ensuring that migrant children have a stable and secure environment to grow up in.

Why This Matters for Indian Job Seekers

With over 290,000 Indians already living and working in New Zealand, these changes are set to benefit thousands more looking for overseas opportunities. The country has been experiencing ongoing labor shortages, and these reforms are designed to attract skilled workers to fill crucial gaps in the job market.

According to Figure.NZ, New Zealand’s Indian population is projected to reach approximately 328,800 by

the end of 2025, with estimates ranging from 307,800 to 349,900.

Manoj Dharmani, CEO of DUDigital Global, sees these changes as a game-changer: "With relaxed wage and work experience requirements, it will be much easier for skilled Indian workers to secure jobs. The longer visa duration also ensures greater stability, while the ability to work during the visa transition period minimizes financial risks."

Mamta Shekhawat, founder of Gradding.com, shares a similar perspective: "These reforms position New Zealand as a top choice for study and career growth, making it a promising destination for aspirants looking for new opportunities."