Jo Haria

18/06/2026

📢 Important update for accredited employers and migrants in skill level 3 roles.

From 1 June 2026, New Zealand's minimum English language requirement for the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) has been extended to cover ANZSCO skill level 3 occupations — trades, technical, and supervisory roles that sit at the heart of many offshore recruitment pipelines.

Here's what you need to know:

✅ The change applies to electricians, plumbers, construction trades, and a wide range of other skill level 3 roles
✅ Applicants can satisfy the requirement through citizenship, prior study or work in an English-speaking country, or a recognised test (IELTS, PTE, TOEFL iBT, OET, or Cambridge C1) at an overall standard equivalent to IELTS 4
✅ Transitional exemptions exist — but they are targeted, not general. They protect existing AEWV holders whose visa expires on or before 1 December 2026, and those who have previously provided English language evidence in an earlier AEWV application
✅ Job check tokens issued before 1 June 2026 do not carry an English language exemption for the visa applicant

For employers: update your pre-departure documentation, build test lead time into your visa timelines, and audit your current pipeline now.

For migrants: your current visa is unaffected — but understand what applies when it expires.

I have written a detailed breakdown of the change, the transitional arrangements, and what employers and migrants should be doing now. Link in comments.

Follow the Righteous Law page for regular immigration law insights, updates, and practical guidance for employers and migrants navigating New Zealand's immigration framework.

24/05/2026

🗣️ Important Update for Employers & Migrants | English Language Requirements Expanding to AEWV Skill Level 3

From 1 June 2026, English language requirements for the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) will extend to skill level 3 occupations under ANZSCO and the National Occupation List (NOL).

What's changing?
Until now, English language requirements only applied to skill level 4 and 5 roles. From 1 June, skill level 3 applicants will also need to demonstrate they can speak and understand English — either through citizenship, work or study history, or a recognised English language test.

Who is exempt?
✅ Global Workforce Seasonal Visa and Peak Seasonal Visa holders
✅ Job Change applicants
✅ Current AEWV holders whose visa expires on or before 1 December 2026 (when applying for a further AEWV at skill level 3)
✅ People who have already provided English language evidence in a previous AEWV application

What about people already on an AEWV?
No one will be affected retrospectively — existing visas remain valid as-is. Transitional arrangements are in place to ensure fairness for those already contributing to New Zealand's workforce.

For employers, this change brings greater consistency across skill levels. If you're recruiting into skill level 3 roles, note that applicants will need to meet English requirements from 1 June — even if your job check token was issued before that date.

For migrants, if your current AEWV expires after 1 December 2026 and you haven't previously provided English evidence, now is the time to arrange your test.

Not sure what skill level your role falls under? Or if you have questions about how this change affects your visa or your workforce, feel free to reach out to our team.

06/05/2026

Heads up, New Zealand! Something big is changing for citizenship applicants from 2027 — and whether you think it's brilliant or bonkers, you'll want to know about it.

The New Zealand government is introducing a citizenship test. Here's the quick version:

• 20 multiple-choice questions
• Need 15/20 (75%) to pass
• In person, in English only
• A fee per attempt (amount to be confirmed)
• Up to 6 attempts before your application is at risk

Topics will cover things like the Bill of Rights, human rights, New Zealand's government structure, voting rights, and traveling on a New Zealand passport.

Now — the government says this isn't a new requirement. Understanding citizenship responsibilities has always been required. It's just changing how you prove it (from a declaration on a form to an actual test).

But is that spin... or is that fair? 🤷

Some will say, 'If you want to be a Kiwi, know what being a Kiwi means.' Others will say, 'My neighbor has lived here 20 years, volunteers every weekend, and now has to sit an exam like a school kid?'

What do you reckon? Is this a sensible step forward or a barrier dressed up as a values check?

Comment below — I genuinely want to know what this community thinks!

30/04/2026

New Zealand Visa Income Thresholds Increase from 30 April 2026: What Families Need to Know

From 30 April 2026, Immigration New Zealand has increased income and sponsorship thresholds for several popular family and Pacific visa categories, affecting applicants who wish to bring parents or family members to New Zealand.

These annual updates are intended to keep visa requirements aligned with median wages, living costs, and benefit settings in New Zealand.

Visa Categories Affected
The updated thresholds apply to:
• Pacific Access Category Resident Visa
• Samoan Quota Resident Visa
• Parent Category Resident Visa
• Parent Boost Visitor Visa

Pacific Access Category & Samoan Quota Changes
For applicants with dependent children, the minimum annual income requirement has increased:
• Previous threshold: NZD $54,133.04
• New threshold (from 30 April 2026): NZD $55,404.96
This applies to applications lodged from 30 April 2026.

Parent Category Resident Visa Changes
Sponsor income thresholds have increased based on the updated June 2025 median wage of NZD $35.00 per hour, up from NZD $33.56.

Important notes:
• Existing Parent Category Resident Visa applications are not affected
• Sponsors must meet the required income threshold for the chosen 2 years within the last 3 completed tax years

Parent Boost Visitor Visa Changes
The Parent Boost Visitor Visa now has higher sponsor and applicant financial requirements.
Sponsor Minimum Income – 1 Sponsor
• 1 parent: NZD $72,800
• 2 parents: NZD $109,200
• 3 parents: NZD $145,600
• 4 parents: NZD $182,000

Sponsor Minimum Income – 2 Sponsors Combined
• 1 parent: NZD $109,200
• 2 parents: NZD $145,600
• 3 parents: NZD $182,000
• 4 parents: NZD $218,400

Applicant Self-Funding Option
Applicants may alternatively qualify using their own financial resources.

Required Annual Income
• Single applicant: NZD $33,663.24
• Applicant with partner: NZD $51,182.56

Required Personal Funds
• Single applicant: NZD $170,000
• Applicant with partner: NZD $260,000

Who Is Affected?
These changes apply to:
• New Parent Boost Visitor Visa applications lodged on or after 30 April 2026
• New Pacific Access Category and Samoan Quota applications
• Future Parent Category Resident Visa applicants

Why This Matters
If you are planning to sponsor your parents or apply under a Pacific family visa pathway, these higher thresholds may directly affect eligibility. Early planning is important, especially where two sponsors may combine income.

Need Advice on Parent or Family Visas in New Zealand?
If you are considering the Parent Resident Visa, Parent Boost Visitor Visa, or other family visa options in New Zealand, professional immigration advice can help you assess eligibility and prepare a strong application.

02/04/2026

Righteous Law Launches New Zealand Immigration Self-Assessment Tool🇳🇿

This is a free online assessment tool to help friends wishing to migrate to New Zealand get a preliminary idea of their visa eligibility.

Covers seven visa categories:

🔹Skilled migration (SMC 6 points)
🔹Investment Immigration (Active Investor Plus)
🔹Green List Residence (Green List)
🔹Spouse Visa
🔹Parents reunited
🔹Studying to transfer people
🔹Business Investment Visa (BIV)

At the same time, the built-in "Green List Occupation Query" function can quickly check whether your occupation is on the Green List and whether it is in line with the rapid residence channel.

Upon completion of the assessment, you can schedule a consultation directly online and the results of the evaluation will be automatically sent to our immigration team.

All data are based on the latest INZ policy in March 2016.

https://righteouslaw.com/immigration-self-assessment/

Feel free to experience and forward it to friends in need!

Disclaimer: This tool is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration policy changes frequently. For a professional assessment tailored to your individual circumstances, consult a lawyer at Righteous Law Limited. Righteous Law

https://righteouslaw.com/immigration-self-assessment/

31/03/2026

📢 Big Changes Coming to New Zealand’s Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) – August 2026

Immigration New Zealand has confirmed further changes to the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa, with new rules taking effect from late August 2026.

Here are the key updates:

✅ New Trades & Technician Residence Pathway
Applies to selected ANZSCO skill level 1–3 trades and technician roles.
Requires:
Level 4+ relevant qualification
4 years relevant experience (including 1.5 years in NZ)
Paid at least the SMC median wage.
Designed to give skilled trades workers a more realistic pathway to residence.

🚦 New Red & Amber Occupation Lists
These lists will affect eligibility:
🔴 Red List – No access to new pathways; applicants must meet higher SMC point thresholds.
🟠 Amber List – Eligible but with stricter experience and wage requirements.
Roles affected include some hospitality managers, chefs, retail managers, ICT support roles, and beauty industry occupations.
These lists are based on immigration risk indicators and will be reviewed regularly.

💰 Simplified Wage Rules
Migrants only need to meet the median wage that applied when they started skilled work — not a higher future rate.
A new grace period protects applicants if wages increase shortly after visa approval.

🎓 Qualification Points Changes
NZ qualifications will generally receive more points than overseas qualifications.
Overseas qualifications may require an International Qualification Assessment (IQA).
Additional rules apply for postgraduate qualifications.

🗣 English Test Validity Extended
English test results valid for 5 years (for applicants with recognised occupational registration).
📈 New Option Coming (2027)
Some migrants may be able to extend their Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) by up to 12 months to complete skilled work experience needed for residence.

🧾 Accountants Update
Accountants with CPA Australia membership will gain recognised occupational registration eligibility under SMC.

If you’re currently on a work visa or planning your residence pathway, the August 2026 changes could significantly affect your eligibility.

📩 Feel free to reach out if you want to understand how these updates may apply to your situation.

12/03/2026

🎓 New Graduate Work Visa Pathways Coming to New Zealand (Late 2026) 🇳🇿

Immigration New Zealand is introducing important changes to graduate work visa options, aimed at better aligning international graduates with New Zealand’s workforce and skills needs.

These updates include a new Short Term Graduate Work Visa and expanded eligibility for the Post Study Work Visa — creating clearer pathways from study to employment.

🆕 Short Term Graduate Work Visa (Launching Late 2026)

Eligible international graduates will be able to apply for a 6-month open work visa to help them transition from study into employment and potentially move onto an Accredited Employer Work Visa.

Key points:
✅ Up to 6 months open work rights
✅ Apply within 3 months of student visa expiry
✅ Must hold NZQCF Level 5–7 qualification (minimum 24 weeks study in NZ)
✅ Must have at least NZD $5,000 maintenance funds
🚫 Cannot sponsor partner or dependent child visas
🚫 No extensions or second Short Term Graduate Work Visa

This visa is designed for graduates not eligible for a Post Study Work Visa but who need time to secure skilled employment.

📚 Post Study Work Visa – Eligibility Expanding

From late 2026, graduates who complete a Graduate Diploma (NZQCF Level 7) may become eligible for a Post Study Work Visa if they also hold a Bachelor’s degree (NZ or overseas).

Highlights:
✔ Full-time study required in New Zealand
✔ Visa duration up to 1 year
✔ Ability to support partners and dependent children (if requirements are met)
✔ Only one Post Study Work Visa can ever be granted

✨ These changes aim to attract skilled international graduates while maintaining the quality and reputation of New Zealand’s education system.

⚠️ Immigration rules can be complex, and timing, qualification level, and visa history will significantly affect eligibility.

📞 Want to understand how these changes affect you or your clients?
Contact Righteous Law Immigration Team for tailored advice:
📱 09 580 1083
📧 [email protected]

23/02/2026

📢 Important Update: Changes to Open Work Visa Conditions (From 20 April 2026)

Immigration New Zealand has announced new employment conditions for open work visa holders, effective 20 April 2026.

These changes are designed to provide greater clarity about what work is permitted — helping migrants better understand their rights and responsibilities, and supporting fair and compliant workplaces.

⚠️ These changes do NOT apply to Student Visa holders.
⚠️ Employer-specific visas (such as the Accredited Employer Work Visa) are not affected.

🔎 Two Types of Open Work Visa Conditions

From April 2026, open work visas will include one of two employment conditions:

1️⃣ Open Work Visas Allowing Any Work

Some visa holders can:
✔ Work for any employer
✔ Be self-employed
✔ Sole trade
✔ Own and operate a business

This applies to visas such as:
• Partner of a Worker Work Visa
• Partner of a Student Work Visa
• Post Study Work Visa
• Partner of a New Zealander Residence Visa
• Partner of a Military Work Visa

2️⃣ Open Work Visas Requiring Work for an Employer

Other visa holders must:
✔ Work under an employment agreement
✔ Or work under a contract for services
❌ They cannot operate their own business

This applies to:
• Working Holiday Visas
• Victims of Domestic Violence Work Visa
• Victims of People Trafficking Work Visa
• Migrant Exploitation Protection Work Visa
• Asylum Seeker Work Visa

🚫 Conditions That Apply to ALL Open Work Visas

Regardless of category:

• You cannot employ other people, even through a business you own
• You cannot provide commercial sexual services
• You must comply with NZ employment and business laws

Working Holiday Visa holders in particular cannot operate a business — work must be for an employer.

🔄 Transitional Arrangements

If you are currently doing work that will not be permitted under the new rules (excluding commercial sexual services), you may continue until your visa expires.

This gives you time to adjust before applying for your next visa.

Future visa applications must meet the updated employment conditions.

Why This Matters

These changes could significantly impact:
• Business owners on open work visas
• Working holiday visa holders
• Partners of visa holders
• Migrants planning future visa applications

Understanding your visa conditions now can prevent compliance issues later.

📩 Unsure how these changes affect your situation?
Seek tailored legal advice before making employment or business decisions. We’re here to help you assess your options and plan your next steps confidently.

19/02/2026

💰 Median Wage Increasing to $35.00/hour

From 9 March 2026, the immigration median wage increases to:

➡️ NZ$35.00 per hour (up from $33.56)

Although AEWV employers now only need to pay the market rate, the median wage still impacts:

• Residence eligibility thresholds
• Skilled work experience requirements
• Family sponsorship eligibility
• Visa length
• Job Check advertising rules

Employers must meet the wage threshold in place when the worker starts their visa. Existing workers do not need pay increases unless they change visa types.

If you need tailored advice on how these changes affect your visa or workforce planning, feel free to contact us for professional guidance.

Send a message to learn more

28/01/2026

🎓 Student Visa Peak Processing – Apply Early! ⏳

Immigration New Zealand is currently in a peak processing period for student visa applications, with a high number of students planning to study in 2026. This means longer processing times are possible.

📌 Key Advice for Students:
Apply at least 3 months before travel and make sure your application is complete when submitted. INZ may decide your application based only on what you provide. Missing documents can lead to delays—or even a decline.

✅ Include:
• A valid Offer of Place from a NZ education provider
• Genuine financial evidence for living costs
• Health and character documents
• A clear explanation of your study plans and future intentions

🚫 Do not upload “holding” letters saying documents will come later—applications can be declined if key evidence is missing.

📚 Applying with a Conditional Offer?
Students outside NZ can apply using a conditional Offer of Place while waiting on results. INZ can assess the application and give approval in principle—but a final unconditional offer is needed before the visa is granted.

⚠️ Late Application Risk
If a visa isn’t decided before the course starts, students should speak with their provider about a later intake. A new Offer of Place or updated start date letter can be uploaded to avoid further delays.

📩 Need help preparing a strong application or legal advice on your student visa? Contact us for professional guidance.

Plan early. Prepare well. Strong applications = smoother outcomes.

Send a message to learn more