Understanding the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) in New Zealand

AEWV, new zealand, skilled migrant category,

August 5, 2024

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The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) is an essential part of New Zealand’s immigration system, designed to facilitate the entry of skilled workers into the country.

This visa enables New Zealand employers to hire international talent when local expertise is unavailable, thereby addressing skill shortages and contributing to the country’s economic growth.

As at 29 July 2024 Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has approved 123,915 AEWV applications, and there are 35,873 accredited employers. [1]

What is the Accredited Employer Work Visa?

Introduced in 2022, the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) is a temporary work visa that allows New Zealand employers accredited by Immigration New Zealand (INZ) to hire skilled foreign workers. The AEWV replaces previous work visa categories like the Essential Skills Visa, streamlining the process for employers and applicants.

Changes to New Zealand’s Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)

Key Features of the AEWV

• Employer Accreditation: Only employers accredited by INZ can offer jobs that qualify for the AEWV. Accreditation ensures that employers meet specific criteria, such as demonstrating good workplace practices and a commitment to hiring New Zealanders where possible.
• Job Offer Requirement: Applicants must have a genuine job offer from an accredited employer in New Zealand.
• Skill Level and Pay Rate: The job offer must meet minimum pay thresholds and be classified under specific skill levels as outlined by Immigration New Zealand.

Eligibility Requirements

For Employers:

• Accreditation: Employers must obtain accreditation from INZ, which involves meeting criteria related to workplace practices, financial viability, and a commitment to hiring New Zealand workers.
• Job Advertisement: Employers are generally required to advertise the position in New Zealand to demonstrate that there are no suitable local candidates available.

Check if an Employer is an Accredited Employer in New Zealand

For Applicants:

• Job Offer: A genuine job offer from an accredited employer.
• Skills and Qualifications: Relevant skills and qualifications for the job offered, which must be classified as a medium- or high-skilled occupation according to INZ guidelines.
• Health and Character Requirements: Applicants must meet health and character standards set by INZ, which typically includes medical examinations and police clearance certificates.
• English Language Proficiency: Applicants must demonstrate a certain level of English language proficiency, typically through recognized tests like IELTS.

Application Process

1. Employer Accreditation: Before offering a job to a foreign worker, employers must become accredited by INZ. This process involves submitting evidence of compliance with legal requirements and good workplace practices.
2. Job Check: Once accredited, employers must pass a job check. This ensures that the role meets INZ’s skill and pay thresholds and that efforts have been made to recruit a New Zealand worker first.
3. Visa Application: The prospective employee can apply for the AEWV after receiving a job offer. This involves submitting personal documentation, including proof of identity, qualifications, and health and character evidence.
4. INZ Decision: Immigration New Zealand reviews the application and, if satisfied with all criteria, grants the visa. This allows the applicant to work for the accredited employer in New Zealand.
5. Visa Conditions: The AEWV typically allows the holder to work in New Zealand for the duration of their employment contract, up to a maximum of three years. After this period, visa holders may apply for residency or renew their work visa, depending on their circumstances and New Zealand’s immigration policies at the time.

Challenges and Considerations

• Accreditation Process: Obtaining and maintaining accreditation requires employers to adhere to specific standards and may involve additional costs and administrative work.
• Market Testing: Employers must demonstrate that they have made genuine efforts to recruit local talent, which can be time-consuming and challenging in certain industries with acute skill shortages.
• Visa Renewal and Transition: Visa holders must be aware of the conditions attached to their AEWV and plan for future transitions, such as applying for residency or extending their work visa.

Conclusion

The Accredited Employer Work Visa is a crucial tool for addressing skill shortages in New Zealand, allowing businesses to access global talent and fostering economic growth. For skilled workers, it offers a valuable opportunity to work and live in New Zealand, potentially opening the door to permanent residency. Both employers and employees must navigate the requirements carefully to ensure a successful application process.

For more detailed information about the Accredited Employer Work Visa, including specific eligibility criteria and application procedures, visit the New Zealand Immigration website.

[1] New Zealand Immigration

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Disclaimer: The information and materials provided on this website are for general informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Any posted material is not intended to be immigration advice and does not purport to represent all requirements for a successful application or applications.

While ConsultANZ endeavors to provide accurate and up-to-date information on this website, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability of the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

No person should act on the basis of the material contained in any post without obtaining advice relevant to their situation, and without considering and taking professional advice where necessary. For more information visit: https://www.immigration.govt.nz/ We advise you to use a licensed immigration adviser (LIA), a certified New Zealand lawyer, or someone else legally able to provide immigration advice. 

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