New Zealand will increase English language requirements for mid-skill work visa applicants starting June 1, 2026. The new rules extend to Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) holders in skill level 3 jobs such as hospitality, restaurant, hotel, and technical trades roles. Previously, English tests were only mandatory for skill levels 4 and 5 positions [1, 2, 3, 4].
Applicants for the Global Workforce Seasonal Visa and Peak Seasonal Visa are exempt from the new English requirement [1, 2, 3, 4]. Those already holding valid AEWV visas or who have proven English proficiency earlier will not need to meet the new test if renewing or applying before December 1, 2026 [2]. Erica Stanford, a government official, said, "Being able to communicate in basic, everyday English ensures that workers understand their rights and engage effectively at work and in the community while they are here." [2]
In addition, New Zealand will broaden investment options under the Active Investor Plus visa Growth category. From June 1, applicants can allocate up to 20% of their NZ$5 million total investment—up to NZ$1 million—to charitable donations supporting registered charities or specified conservation projects. The remainder must be invested in high-growth assets [1, 5, 2, 3, 4].
This change comes amid strong demand for the Golden Visa program since rule updates last April. As of May 20, 2026, authorities reported 730 Golden Visa applications involving 2,390 people and a potential total investment of NZ$4.3 billion [5, 2]. Erica Stanford said, "过去一年，我与许多投资者和潜在投资者会面后获得反馈，后者都希望能通过慈善捐赠，直接为纽西兰的社会、环境、保护或文化事业做出贡献。对慈善机构而言，捐赠可显著帮助他们继续开展重要服务。" (Over the past year, after meeting many investors and prospective investors, the feedback was that they want to contribute directly to New Zealand's social, environmental, conservation or cultural efforts through charitable donations. For charities, donations significantly help them continue key services.) [5]
Looking ahead, New Zealand plans to launch two new skilled migrant residence pathways in August 2026 [1, 6, 7, 3, 4].
