New Zealand Eases Visa Rules: What Filipino Workers Need to Know
Many people dream of working abroad, whether to grow their careers, help support their families or start a new adventure. Fortunately, many New Zealand jobs for Filipinos can offer a good career and a great quality of life.
The country is also making accredited employer work visa changes to fill important labour shortages. This means more chances for skilled workers like you to land a job and take the next step in your career.
Let’s take a closer look at what’s changing in New Zealand’s visa rules and how you can take advantage of these new opportunities with the help of a New Zealand employment agency.
Key Changes in New Zealand’s Visa Rules
If you’ve been thinking about working in New Zealand, now might be the perfect time to go for it. The government has made several changes to its visa rules to make it easier for people like you to find jobs and build a better future.
1. Removal of median wage requirements
One of the most significant changes is the removal of median wage requirements for the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) and Specific Purpose Work Visa (SPWV) holders.
Previously, employers had to offer a set wage based on New Zealand’s median wage. Now, employers can provide market-based salaries, which means you can receive more competitive pay depending on the role and location.
This flexibility also makes it easier for employers to hire Filipino workers in New Zealand, as they’re no longer tied to a rigid wage structure. However, if you’re an AEWV holder and you want to bring your children to New Zealand, you’ll still need to meet an income threshold of NZ$55,844 annually.
2. Reduced work experience requirement
New Zealand has lowered the work experience requirement for many jobs, from three years to two years. This update makes it easier to qualify for jobs, especially if you’re early in your career or shifting to a new industry.
Employers will still need to check if you meet the two-year requirement, and you’ll have to show proof of your work experience. But overall, this change opens more doors for applicants like you while still ensuring workers have enough experience to avoid unfair treatment or exploitation on the job.
3. New seasonal worker visa options
For workers in the agriculture, horticulture, and tourism sectors, New Zealand has introduced new seasonal worker visa options. These include:
• Three-year multi-entry visa – For experienced seasonal labourers who can work for multiple seasons.
• Seven-month single-entry visa – For workers in lower-skilled roles during the peak season.
These changes address the seasonal nature of work in these industries and offer workers more stability while meeting the demand for labour during busy periods.
4. Longer visa duration for low-skilled jobs
New Zealand has also extended the visa duration for workers in ANZSCO Levels 4 and 5, which include low-skilled roles in areas like hospitality and retail. These workers are now eligible for a three-year visa, which can be extended by an additional year.
Previously, workers in these roles were only eligible for two-year visas. This extension provides greater job security and stability if you’re seeking long-term employment opportunities in these sectors.
Impact on Skilled Filipino Workers
New Zealand’s new visa rules are good news if you’re planning to work abroad. Whether you’re just starting your career or already have experience, these changes make it easier for you to qualify and get hired. You can enjoy the following benefits:
Easier entry requirements
It’s now simpler to apply for a job in New Zealand. You don’t need as many years of work experience, and employers have more freedom to offer salaries that match the job and your skills. This gives you a better chance of getting hired, even if you’re still building your career. If you’ve been wanting to work abroad, this could be your opportunity.
For example, if you’re a nurse with only two years of experience, you now meet the new requirement and can apply sooner than before.
Increased demand and higher wages
Because of worker shortages, many employers in New Zealand are actively hiring. This means more job openings, and often, better pay. Since they no longer have to follow fixed wage rules, employers can give more competitive offers. You have a better chance of finding a job that pays well and values your experience.
Let’s say you have experience in agriculture or construction—fields in New Zealand currently facing worker shortages. There’s a good chance you’ll find an employer willing to match your skills with a better salary.
Expanded job access
You’ll also see more job openings in areas like construction, healthcare, engineering, and farming. These industries really need skilled workers, and many are happy to hire from the Philippines. If you’ve trained or worked in any of these fields, now’s a great time to apply. There are more paths open to you than before.
Stronger path to financial security
With longer visa terms and better job security, you can build a more stable life in New Zealand. You’ll have more time to work, save, and support your goals—whether that’s helping your family, investing, or planning for your future. These changes give you a stronger chance of building a better life, not just a short-term job.
These updates mean you now have more chances to succeed in New Zealand’s labour market, regardless of your skill level or work experience.
Let Staffhouse Help You Seize These Opportunities
If you’re ready to take the leap and start a new chapter in New Zealand, Staffhouse International Resources is here to help. We can help you get DMW jobs abroad with no placement fee, so you don’t have to worry about extra costs just to have a secure career in other countries.
Our experienced team is well-versed in New Zealand’s new visa rules and can guide you through the entire application process so you can comply with the latest requirements.
Get free ethical assistance with your application—only through Staffhouse.
