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New Zealand is raising its median wage to NZD 35, a move that will change visa rules for many migrants including Nigerians.

Big changes are on the horizon for those looking to call New Zealand home. From March 9, 2026, the country will officially hike its median wage to NZD 35 per hour. 

If you have your sights set on a life in the "Land of the Long White Cloud," it is time to pay close attention to your paycheck.

While New Zealand adjusted some visa rules back in 2025, this median wage remains the "golden number" for many immigration paths. Once this new rate kicks in, several visa requirements will automatically align to match it.

What does this mean for you?

If you are applying for the "Green List" or hoping to sponsor a partner or child, the income threshold is going up. If your salary doesn't meet the new NZD 35 mark, your application could hit a major brick wall.

For those in specific lower-skilled roles, the pressure is even higher. To secure a maximum five-year stay, you’ll now need to earn at least 1.5 times the median wage. 

For employers who want to skip certain job advertising rules, they will have to dig deeper into their pockets to pay at least double the rate amounting to NZD 70 per hour.

This yearly update isn't just a random guess; it is based on the latest cost-of-living data from New Zealand. 

The goal is to ensure that everyone working in the country migrants included is paid a fair wage that matches the local economy.

If you are an employer or a worker currently processing a visa, do not wait until the last minute. Review those contracts now to ensure your salary levels align with the March 9 deadline. A small oversight today could lead to a big headache tomorrow.