(April 2024)
Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)
What are the recent changes to the AEWV?
Several changes came into effect on April 7th, 2024. These include:
English language requirement: Now required for applications related to low-skilled roles (ANZSCO levels 4 and 5).
Minimum skills and experience: Applicants must prove qualification for the offered job (typically 3 years experience or a comparable NZ Level 4 qualification).
Employer engagement with Work and Income: Mandatory for ANZSCO 4 and 5 roles before migrant approval.
Maximum stay for lower-skilled roles: Reduced from 5 to 3 years (exceptions apply).
Minimum work hours: Employers must provide at least 30 hours/week or risk losing accreditation.
Can my company still hire migrant workers for lower-skilled roles (ANZSCO 4 & 5)?
Yes, but the process is stricter. You'll need to demonstrate efforts to recruit New Zealanders first (engagement with Work and Income) and comply with stricter requirements for the migrant worker (English language, qualifications).
How do the new English language requirements impact my migrant employee application?
The minimum English language standard will be specified by Immigration New Zealand. Ensure your migrant worker meets this standard before applying for an AEWV for an ANZSCO 4 or 5 role.
What are the implications of the minimum work hour requirement?
Your company must guarantee at least 30 hours of work per week for the migrant worker throughout their AEWV. Failure to do so can lead to accreditation issues.
Do the changes apply to existing AEWV holders?
The new minimum work hour requirement applies to all AEWV holders, regardless of when the visa was issued. The length of stay limitations (3 years for ANZSCO 4 & 5) may not apply to existing holders if their initial application was submitted before June 21st, 2023. These vary depending on criteria
What are my responsibilities as an accredited employer?
You're responsible for ensuring migrant workers comply with their visa conditions, paying them fairly, and providing a safe work environment.
What are the benefits of hiring migrant workers?
Migrant workers can bring valuable skills and experience to your company, filling labor shortages and fostering diversity in the workplace.
What happens if I don't comply with the terms of the AEWV program?
Non-compliance could result in penalties, including the loss of your employer accreditation and difficulty sponsoring future migrant workers.
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