Median Wage Set to Rise

The median wage is used by Immigration NZ as a part of the assessment criteria in some temporary work and residence visa applications.

On 28 February 2024 the median wage will rise from $29.66 to $31.61 an hour for the following visa applications:

• Skilled Migrant (points system) Residence category
• Greenlist – Tier 1 - Straight to Residence
• Greenlist Tier 2 – Work to Residence
• Transport Sector – Work to Residence (excluding bus drivers)
• Parent Residence category – sponsors income

How the increased median wage applies to each of these categories depends on the particular type of visa application. In some cases $31.61 is sufficient but in other cases it may need to be as high as 1.5 times to 3 times the median wage to be acceptable. For example under the Skilled Migrant (points system) the median wage applies as a minimum requirement to the job offer and when claiming points for skilled New Zealand work experience. For highly skilled occupations (doctors, teachers, nurses etc) $31.61 would be acceptable for the job offer and work experience. However other occupations may require anything from 1.5 times to 3 times the median wage to claim points for a job offer and/or local work experience.  

‍Confused?

Applying the median wage across the above visa applications is complex. The best way to demystify how this may apply to you is talking with an experienced and trusted licensed immigration adviser. Contact our team today.

The increased median wage does NOT apply to existing (already lodged) or new Accredited Employer Work Visa applications (AEWV). It will also not apply to:

• Variation of Conditions to an AEWV (changing jobs or employers)
• Partners of AEWV holders
• Interim Visas issued under the Skilled Migrant category
• Migrant Exploitation visas

The hourly rate of $29.66 will continue to apply to these visa applications.

If you are earning below the new median wage of $31.61 and want to apply for residence you may need to discuss with your employer an early pay review. Not an easy conversation in the current economic climate.