If a worker starts employment with a new employer from 9th March 2026, they may need to meet the new pay rate of $35.00 p/hour to be on a residence pathway.

Though there will be a degree of impact for those already on the RV path (HM title & RV pay), this will mostly impact work those visa holders hoping to become eligible for RV in the future.

The timing is particularly painful given the many work visa holders intending to start work with new employers with the “Change of Season” on 1 June.

Who this impacts:

• If your Herd Manager is currently earning $33.56 p/hour (or the previous median wage $31.61 before the change in August 2025), they may be able to remain on this rate until they are ready to apply for RV. At which point they will need to be paid the $35/hour to apply for RV and be paid that until the RV is approved.
• If your Herd Manager was not on median wage in August 2025, you can put them up to $33.56 p/hour prior to 8 March, then they can earn that for the full 24 months towards their RV pathway.

 

Due to INZ’s ever increasing RV pay requirements, employers may need to consider doing workforce planning instead. Remembering that after 5 years, workers will be required to leave NZ if they can’t secure residency.

Are you prepared to lose workers, due to the high pay and lose your senior staff? Or is it worth bringing in new blood at lower pay rates?

 

Have Questions?

To ensure the best support, we handle inquiries on a case-by-case basis; please contact us directly if you have queries about a specific staff member, as every migrant has their own pathway.

Contact one of our Licensed Immigration Advisers HERE for expert guidance and support in getting your worker’s Residence on track — and on time.