Clockwork Visa Services

24/05/2026

Big change coming: from 1 June 2026, English language rules will apply to skill level 3 AEWVs.

Already on an AEWV?
You may be exempt if your visa expires on or before 1 December 2026 and you apply for your next AEWV before it runs out.

INZ is contacting eligible migrants, but we can guide you too.
If your visa expires this year, get in touch — we’ll help you stay on track.

24/05/2026

AEWV update for Skill Level 3 roles:
From early June 2026, Immigration NZ will require evidence of English ability for ANZSCO Skill Level 3 roles — the same requirement already in place for Levels 4 and 5.
This means applicants in mid‑skilled roles will need to show basic, everyday English (IELTS 4.0 or equivalent) unless exempt.
If you’re planning an AEWV application in a Level 3 role, it’s a good time to check whether you meet the English requirement and what evidence you may need

The changes will apply from the beginning of next month.

01/04/2026

Pacific Access Category and Samoan Quota
Registrations are now OPEN

Registrations for the Samoan Quota and Pacific Access Category visa annual ballot draws open today.

These pathways to residence in Aotearoa New Zealand recognise the relationship we have with Samoa and the Pacific Access Category countries in Tonga, Tuvalu, Kiribati and Fiji.

Find out more: https://www.immigration.govt.nz/about-us/news-centre/pacific-access-category-and-samoan-quota-registrations-are-now-open-for-2026/

18/03/2026

NZ Employers: Are You Ready for INZ to Drop In?
“Regulators carried out 147 visits across the North Island, uncovering breaches of employment standards, cash payments, poor record‑keeping and potential exploitation.”
“Immigration Compliance officers were on site to check visa conditions and employer obligations.”
These aren’t random checks — they’re a clear signal that INZ and MBIE are actively verifying whether Accredited Employers are meeting every commitment they signed up to.
If they walked into your workplace today, could you confidently demonstrate compliance?
Clockwork can help you get audit‑ready before INZ arrives

17/03/2026

https://www.immigration.govt.nz/about-us/news-centre/the-2026-pacific-access-category-and-samoan-quota-ballots-open-on-1-april-2026/?fbclid=IwY2xjawQmmkVleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFER28weFlTVUVoUklUMDVNc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHmkg_aRBGfISulUOzql9zm2ZnJO0tij22abfq6HqgTGLY-hMUGu8h3hWnneY_aem_fkJgdtJapvPbe5lVQz1K1g

Registrations will open for the 2026 Samoan Quota and the Pacific Access Category on 1 April 2026 at 08:00 New Zealand Daylight Saving Time (NZDT).

Find out more: https://www.immigration.govt.nz/about-us/news-centre/the-2026-pacific-access-category-and-samoan-quota-ballots-open-on-1-april-2026/

04/03/2026

Amber List Occupations – Important SMC Update
INZ has also confirmed the Amber List for the Skilled Migrant Category changes coming in August 2026.

Migrants in these occupations cannot use the Trades & Technician Pathway.
They may still be eligible for the Skilled Work Experience Pathway, but only if they have:
• 5 years of relevant NZ work experience, including
• 2 years of skilled work experience earning at least 1.2 × the SMC median wage.
Amber List Occupations
Accommodation‑Related Manager Roles
• Accommodation & Hospitality Manager
• Hotel or Motel Manager
• Hotel Service Manager
• Bed & Breakfast Operator
• Caravan Park & Camping Ground Manager
Food Service Roles
• Café/Restaurant Manager
• Baker
• Pastrycook
• Chef
Generic Management Roles
• Customer Service Manager
• Office Manager
ICT Roles
• ICT Customer Support Officer
• ICT Support Technician
• Web Administrator
These roles still have residence pathways available, but the criteria are more specific and require careful planning.
If you or your staff fall under the Amber List, it’s a good time to check whether your current role, pay, and experience line up with the new requirements.