Neuseeland wird ab 2026 eine umfassende Reform des Visumsystems durchführen

28.10.2025

New Zealand to implement major visa system reform from 2026

The New Zealand Government has announced upcoming changes to its visa and immigration policy, which will take effect from 2026. The reform aims to adapt the migration program to the country's economic priorities, support international education, and attract skilled professionals.

One of the key innovations will be the update of the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC): the required work experience period will be reduced from three to two years, and the salary threshold for obtaining a visa will increase. The process for issuing student visas will also improve — applications will be processed through an updated online system, reducing the processing times.

Additionally, the government will introduce seasonal visas for workers in agriculture and tourism, simplify the process for applying for an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV), and expand students' rights to employment. The update of the «Green List» of in-demand professions, which accelerates the obtaining of visas and residence permits, will continue.

The reform will also affect family and group visas, which from March 2026 will fully transition to an online format. This will make the application process for tourist and educational groups more convenient and transparent.

Any visa to New Zealand can be processed through the visa agency www.buch-dein-visum.de — quickly, conveniently, and without unnecessary errors thanks to professional support from specialists.