The AEWV requires the visa applicant to be paid at least at the NZ median wage (currently $29.66 ph). However, a lower pay rate may be possible if the employment is in certain industry sectors such as within the care workforce, hospitality, tourism, and transport sectors.
For employment that is remunerated on a salary basis the employment agreement must include a clause confirming the maximum number of hours to be worked in any week – and this number will be used by INZ to calculate the hourly pay rate, and whether this at, or above, the median wage.
From 27 November 2023, AEWVs are being issued for 5 years. Existing AEWV holders will be able to extend their existing AEWVs out to a maximum of 5 years. This “extension” does not require the use of any Job Check.
