Immigration New Zealand announcement - Median wage changes

From 9 March 2026, the immigration median wage will increase to NZD $35.00 per hour, based on June 2025 data. This affects several AEWV related and family visa settings.

Although the general median wage requirement for AEWV was removed in March 2025, some immigration settings are still linked to the median wage. From 9 March, these thresholds will automatically update, including:

• Green List pay requirements

• Exemptions from advertising and minimum skills (roles paid at least twice the median wage)

• Maximum 5 year stay rules for some lower skilled roles (paid at least 1.5 times the median wage)

• Income thresholds for supporting partners and dependent children

Partner and dependent income thresholds are also increasing. For example:

• Skill level 1 to 3 partner support threshold will increases from NZD $26.85 to $28.00 per hour

• Green List partner support threshold will increases from NZD $50.34 to $52.50 per hour

Wage thresholds for skilled residence pathways (SMC, Green List and Transport WTR) will also increase in line with the new median wage. Some applicants may need to move to a higher pay step to remain eligible — for example, teachers must now be on Step 5 of the pay scale (previously Step 4).

Updates to sponsorship income thresholds for the Parent Category and Parent Boost Visitor Visa will be communicated separately and will take effect later in 2026

This may affect you if you are intending to apply for residence, support your family members to join you as the main visa holder. Get in touch about your situation. As always, planning and timing are essential and this is why having the right advice can prove the difference between success and disappointment.

https://www.immigration.govt.nz/about-us/news-centre/new-occupations-recognised-under-the-national-occupation-list-and-annual-median-wage-increase/