🇳🇿 Work & skilled workers

If enacted, the legislation would strengthen security requirements in Customs-controlled areas and export storage facilities. This would increase the legislative requirements governing secure areas associated with the movement and storage of goods through the border system. The Bill would also increase penalties and create additional enforcement tools for serious offending. The government's stated objective is to give Customs stronger mechanisms for dealing with serious criminal activity associated with the border rather than relying solely on the existing enforcement framework. The proposed legislation would further expand Customs' operational powers. The exact practical effect of each power will depend on the final legislation enacted by Parliament and any commencement provisions attached to it. It should therefore not currently be presented to travellers, migrants or businesses as a new power that Customs can already exercise. Another proposed change concerns information sharing and digital border capabilities. The Bill is intended to modernise the way information can be shared in connection with Customs and its partner agencies and to support the use of modern digital systems at the border. The government specifically says the Bill establishes a framework for information sharing with industry partners. The proposal also includes enhanced officer-safety provisions. These are intended to provide Customs staff with additional protections and tools in circumstances involving serious criminal activity and the risks associated with enforcing border controls. The Bill's introduction does not, however, establish a new visa requirement, create a new immigration category, change visa eligibility, or impose a new entry requirement for foreign nationals based solely on the announcement. The official release does not announce such a change.

The India Free Trade Agreement (FTA) has passed, providing duty-free access for 57 per cent of New Zealand's exports to India from day one. Upon full implementation, tariffs will be eliminated or significantly reduced on 95 per cent of New Zealand's exports to India. The FTA also includes provisions for faster border clearance and preferential access to India's market, with most favoured nation (MFN) commitments for wine and key services sectors.

From 9 March 2026: The immigration median wage increased to NZD $35.00/hour. The 80% threshold increased to NZD $28.00/hour. The 150% threshold increased to NZD $52.50/hour. The 200% threshold increased to NZD $70.00/hour. These changes affect several AEWV-related settings. For example, an AEWV holder in an eligible ANZSCO/NOL skill-level 1–3 job generally needs to earn at least NZD $28/hour to support a partner for a Partner of a Worker Work Visa. An AEWV holder earning NZD $52.50/hour or more can meet the high-income threshold for supporting a partner and certain dependent children.

Current rules for this policy, plus every recorded change.

Current rules for this policy, plus every recorded change.