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New Zealand
Wellington
New Zealand Updates Deportation and Enforcement Rules
New legislation extends the deportation liability period for serious criminal offenses from 10 to 20 years and increases penalties for migrant exploitation. The rules also grant authorities wider powers to act against individuals providing false information on visa applications.
New Zealand Updates Skilled Occupation List and Wage Thresholds
Starting March 9, 2026, New Zealand will add 47 roles to its skilled occupation list while raising the immigration median wage to NZD $35 per hour. These changes will impact eligibility for the Accredited Employer Work Visa and introduce stricter requirements for specific service roles.
Why New Zealand's Median Wage Changes Matter for Digital Nomads
New Zealand has raised the immigration median wage to NZD 35.00 per hour, affecting Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) requirements and residency pathways. Additionally, 47 occupations have been added to the National Occupation List, changing how certain roles are classified for visa processing.