New Zealand's immigration policies are designed to balance the needs of the local labor market with the benefits of hiring skilled migrants. One of the key aspects of this balance is the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) scheme, which includes a median wage threshold. However, certain roles are exempt from this threshold, allowing employers to hire migrants for these positions without meeting the median wage requirement.

Understanding the AEWV Median Wage Threshold

The AEWV median wage threshold is a benchmark set by Immigration New Zealand to ensure that migrant workers are paid fairly and to protect the local labor market. Employers must typically offer at least the median wage to hire a migrant worker under the AEWV scheme. This threshold is reviewed and updated regularly to reflect changes in the labour market.

Exempt Roles

Certain roles are exempt from the AEWV median wage threshold due to their critical importance to specific sectors or the overall economy. These exemptions are part of sector agreements negotiated between the government and industry representatives. The exemptions aim to address labour shortages in key areas while ensuring that the employment of migrants does not undermine wages and conditions for New Zealand workers.

Key Sectors with Exempt Roles

1. Healthcare and Aged Care: Roles such as aged care workers, nurses, and other healthcare professionals are often exempt from the median wage threshold. This exemption helps address the critical shortage of healthcare workers in New Zealand.
2. Construction and Infrastructure: Skilled tradespeople, such as carpenters, electricians, and plumbers, may be exempt from the median wage threshold to support the country's infrastructure projects and housing needs.
3. Agriculture and Horticulture: Seasonal roles in agriculture and horticulture, such as fruit pickers and dairy farm workers, are frequently exempt from the median wage threshold. These exemptions help ensure that the agricultural sector can meet its labor demands during peak seasons.
4. Hospitality and Tourism: Certain roles in the hospitality and tourism sectors, such as chefs and tour guides, may also be exempt from the median wage threshold. These exemptions support the recovery and growth of these industries, which are vital to New Zealand's economy.

Applying for Exempt Roles

Employers looking to hire migrants for exempt roles must still meet other AEWV requirements, such as demonstrating that they have made genuine efforts to recruit New Zealand workers. Additionally, they must comply with all relevant employment laws and provide fair wages and conditions for migrant workers.

Conclusion

The exemptions from the AEWV median wage threshold play a crucial role in addressing labour shortages in key sectors while maintaining fair employment practices. By understanding these exemptions, employers can better navigate the immigration process and contribute to New Zealand's economic growth.