Global Immigration Insights: Updates from New Zealand, Peru, the United States, Poland, and Canada
The landscape of global immigration is ever-changing, shaped by policies and initiatives aimed at regulating the flow of talent and addressing workforce needs. This week, the Global Immigration team at Smith Stone Walters brings you important updates from New Zealand, Peru, the United States, Poland, and Canada.
New Zealand: Updates to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)
On July 8, 2025, Immigration New Zealand announced significant modifications to the online application form for the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) related to Green List occupations. These changes are set to enhance the application process by making it more user-friendly and reflective of the evolving job market.
Key Changes to the AEWV Form
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Generalization of Questions: The application form will replace occupation-specific questions with broader questions applicable across multiple roles. While the number of questions remains similar, applicants will find clarity in requirements for each Green List occupation directly highlighted within the form.
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Quick Updates: This structural change is intended to facilitate quicker updates in accordance with any changes in Green List criteria, ensuring applicants have the most accurate information.
These updates will affect applications submitted on or after July 7, 2025, particularly for roles listed on the Green List and those requiring occupational registration.
Wage Threshold Updates
In conjunction with form adjustments, the wage thresholds for AEWV will see an increase, which is crucial for aligning visa requirements with the local job market. Starting August 18, 2025, wage thresholds will be based on New Zealand’s median wage set in June 2024 at NZD 33.56 per hour.
Implications for Applicants:
- Twice the Median Wage (NZD 67.12/hour): May be exempt from the labor market test and minimum skills threshold.
- 1.5 Times the Median Wage (NZD 50.34/hour): Eligible for a maximum continuous stay of five years under the AEWV.
Peru: New Visa Exemptions for Japanese and Qatari Nationals
In a welcoming move, the Peruvian government recently enacted two decrees that offer visa exemptions to Japanese and Qatari nationals.
Under Supreme Decree No. 020-2025-RE, effective July 1, 2025, Japanese citizens can enter Peru for business without prior consular visa requirements, with a maximum stay of 183 days in a year.
Similarly, Supreme Decree No. 023-2025-RE, effective July 4, 2025, allows Qatari nationals holding an ordinary passport valid for at least six months to visit Peru for tourism, also for a maximum of 183 days over the course of a year.
United States: Termination of Temporary Protected Status for Honduras and Nicaragua
On July 7, 2025, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced the end of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Honduran and Nicaraguan nationals. This decision was made after a review found improved conditions in both countries.
With TPS terminating 60 days post-publication in the Federal Register, those affected are encouraged to utilize the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Home app for secure departure, which offers complimentary plane tickets and exit bonuses to support resettlement.
This follows similar terminations of TPS for Haiti and Afghanistan earlier in June and May, respectively, indicating a broader trend in U.S. immigration policy that emphasizes improved local conditions as a basis for these decisions.
Poland: Recent Changes to Migration Laws
In Poland, significant modifications to migration law took effect on June 1, 2025, aimed at transposing the revised EU Blue Card Directive into national legislation.
Key Features of the New Law
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Revised Definitions: The definition of “higher professional qualifications” now includes qualifications from both higher education and professional experience.
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Mobility Routes: New mobility routes for EU Blue Card holders allow for professional engagements across EU member states.
Additional changes include the removal of the labor market test and the digitization of application processes, making it easier for employers to manage the hiring of foreign nationals.
Canada: Quebec’s New Skilled Worker Programme Criteria
Canada’s province of Quebec has recently revised the criteria for its Skilled Worker Selection Program (PSTQ). Published on July 2, 2025, the updates aim to streamline the selection process for skilled workers, prioritizing those already residing in Quebec and those who contribute to alleviating local labor shortages.
Key Updates:
- Invitations focus on Quebec residents, especially those with proficiency in French and relevant work experience.
- Individuals already in the Arrima system must update their declarations of interest to be considered.
- The PSTQ promotes greater value on education from Quebec and relevant regional work experience compared to previous programs.
Enhanced Global Immigration Management
Smith Stone Walters has recently joined forces with Envoy Global, a leading provider in corporate immigration services. This collaboration enhances our capability to meet the dynamic needs of our clients globally.
Stay informed about these developments and more by engaging with our services designed to facilitate seamless immigration processes for businesses worldwide. For further inquiries, feel free to reach out to us and learn more about how we can support your global talent strategies.
