New Zealand: SMC reform from 24 August 2026 and a higher immigration median wage

What changed

• Policy claim 1

  The immigration median wage rose to NZD 35.00/hour, effective 9 March 2026; it governs Green List pay rates and SMC income points.

  Claim ID: nz-2026-skilled-migration-changes#claim-1·Cite this claim

  Source: Immigration New Zealand — News centre (SMC changes & annual median-wage increase) (Immigration New Zealand (INZ))·source verified 1 June 2026·page reviewed 1 June 2026

• Policy claim 2

  The blanket median-wage requirement for the Accredited Employer Work Visa was removed in March 2025 — roles must instead be paid at the market rate for the job.

  Claim ID: nz-2026-skilled-migration-changes#claim-2·Cite this claim

  Source: Immigration New Zealand — News centre (SMC changes & annual median-wage increase) (Immigration New Zealand (INZ))·source verified 1 June 2026·page reviewed 1 June 2026

• Policy claim 3

  A Skilled Migrant Category reform takes effect 24 August 2026, adding Skilled Work Experience and Trades & Technician pathways, simplified median-wage settings, and a points advantage for NZ-completed qualifications; the current 6-point system stays in force until then.

  Claim ID: nz-2026-skilled-migration-changes#claim-3·Cite this claim

  Source: Immigration New Zealand — News centre (SMC changes & annual median-wage increase) (Immigration New Zealand (INZ))·source verified 1 June 2026·page reviewed 1 June 2026

• Policy claim 4

  47 occupations were added to the National Occupation List at skill levels 1-3, effective 9 March 2026.

  Claim ID: nz-2026-skilled-migration-changes#claim-4·Cite this claim

  Source: Immigration New Zealand — News centre (SMC changes & annual median-wage increase) (Immigration New Zealand (INZ))·source verified 1 June 2026·page reviewed 1 June 2026

Routes affected

• Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa
• Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)

Primary source