New Zealand Improves Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) to Support Migrants

New Zealand has recently implemented significant changes to its Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) category. Employers are now prohibited from incorporating 90-day trial periods into employment contracts for individuals holding an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV).

These amendments, effective since October 29, 2023, are aimed at fostering fair treatment of migrants and streamlining the visa application process.

The elimination of 90-day trial periods for migrant workers is designed to protect them from exploitation and unjust treatment, ensuring that employers hire them only when there is a genuine labor demand or skills gap.

Notable adjustments to the AEWV Category also include the mandate for accredited employers placing migrants in specific construction roles to have a minimum of 35% of their labor-hire workforce comprised of New Zealand citizens and residents in full-time positions.

Furthermore, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has revised the AEWV assessment process, resulting in extended processing times. Employers are advised to apply for accreditation and job checks at least six weeks in advance.

For work visa holders, these AEWV changes imply that trial periods are no longer allowed in employment agreements. It is crucial for individuals offered a job with a New Zealand employer to carefully review their employment agreement, ensuring the absence of a trial period. If such a clause exists, immediate contact with INZ is advisable.

Moreover, New Zealand’s processing times for AEWV applications have seen an increase. Employers are urged to apply well in advance for both accreditation and job checks. Migrant workers in specific construction occupations must ensure that at least 35% of their employer’s labor-hire workforce consists of New Zealand citizens and residents in full-time positions.

To apply for an Accredited Employer Work Visa, you may be eligible under specific circumstances, including the following visa categories:

1. Straight to Residence Visa
2. Work to Residence
3. Highly Paid Residence Visa
4. Care Workforce Work
5. Care Workforce Work to Residence Visa

Eligibility criteria for an Accredited Employer Work Visa:

1. Good Character: You must demonstrate good character in your application.
2. Good Health: Applicants are required to be in good health as part of the eligibility criteria.
3. Meet Visa Conditions: You must comply with all the conditions specified for your visa category.
4. Job Offer from Accredited Employer: A crucial requirement is having a job offer from an accredited employer in New Zealand.
5. Qualifications for the Job: You must possess the necessary qualifications and skills required for the job specified in the offer.
6. No Stand Down Period: You should not currently be under a stand-down period requiring you to spend time outside of New Zealand.
7. No Local Candidates Available: There must be no New Zealand citizens or residents available who can perform the job offered to you.

Ensuring that you fulfill these eligibility requirements is essential for a successful application for an Accredited Employer Work Visa. Always verify the specific criteria for the particular visa category you are applying for, as they may have additional or slightly different requirements.