New Zealand Introduces a New Maximum Continuous Stay for AEWV.

Starting November 27, 2023, Important modifications will be implemented to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV), encompassing the introduction of a prescribed ‘maximum continuous stay.‘ This change will apply uniformly, allowing individuals with an AEWV a maximum continuous stay of 5 years, provided they receive salary at or above the median wage or the level 4 pay rate in the care workforce sector. Additionally, there will be an extension in the maximum visa duration for AEWV holders, with a lengthened period of 5 years for those earning at least the median wage. Those engaged in the care workforce sector and compensated at the level 3 and 4 pay rates will experience an adjusted maximum visa length of 3 years.

Maximum Visa Length, Continuous Stay Limits, and Required Time Outside New Zealand

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Understanding Maximum Visa Length and Continuous Stay

Maximum Continuous Stay in New Zealand refers to the total duration an individual can stay continuously under a specific visa. This period is calculated from the issuance of the first visa or the arrival in New Zealand, if the visa was issued while the person was outside the country. 

essential to understand that the maximum visa length may not always align with the maximum continuous stay. If the continuous stay exceeds the specified visa length for a particular role, any subsequent AEWVs can only be approved up to the length of the maximum continuous stay. This ensures a balanced and regulated approach to visa durations.

The maximum continuous stay excludes time spent on temporary visas (e.g., visitor, student), other work visas (e.g., post study, partnership, working holiday), and an Interim Visa.

Calculating Time and Reaching Maximum Continuous Stay

The calculation of maximum continuous stay begins either from the issuance of the first AEWV or from the arrival in New Zealand on an AEWV, provided the visa was issued while the individual was outside the country. Importantly, time spent on an AEWV approved before November 27, 2023, contributes to the maximum continuous stay, covering periods with pay rates below the median wage. Upon reaching the maximum continuous stay, individuals are required to leave New Zealand for a specified duration to be eligible for another AEWV. The mandated duration outside the country varies, with at least 12 months for those paid the median wage or above, and 4 months for those paid below the median wage in certain roles.

Longer Visa Lengths and Changes for Care Workforce Roles

Roles paid at least the median wage witness an increase in the maximum length of an AEWV from 3 to 5 years. This extension, applicable to applications approved from November 27, 2023, aligns with efforts to provide greater stability for those in higher-paid positions. For those in the care workforce sector, particularly roles paid at the level 3 or level 4 pay rate, the maximum length of an AEWV is increasing from 2 to 3 years. This adjustment, effective from November 27, 2023, facilitates career progression and aligns with pathways to residence for individuals in this critical sector.

Applying for AEWV Balance and Process with Reused Job Tokens

Individuals with existing AEWVs may be eligible to apply for the balance of their visa length from November 27, 2023. This process involves considerations such as the type of work, pay rates, and the sector, ensuring a smooth transition to extended visa lengths. Employers play a vital role in supporting employees applying for their AEWV balance. Reused job tokens simplify the application process, provided specific criteria are met. The order of processing applications with reused job tokens is managed efficiently to ensure fairness and resource optimization.

Changing Employer, Job, or Location

Accredited employers have the opportunity to support employees applying for their visa balance, especially if paying at least the median wage or employing them in the care workforce sector. The reuse of job tokens is permissible under certain conditions, streamlining the process for both employers and employees.

To be eligible for the extended visa length using a reused job token, you must meet specific requirements.

• Your AEWV should have been approved before November 27, 2023.
• Your current AEWV must be for work paid at or above the median wage, as it was when you applied, or for work in the care workforce sector paid at least the level 3 rate.
• Your employer, job title, and work location must remain the same as in your current AEWV.
• You must be paid at the same rate or above the rate listed in your current AEWV.
• Meeting the criteria for the AEWV, including health and character requirements, is essential.
• Additionally, your employer must be accredited for the Accredited Employer Work Visa.

Must-Know AEWV Extension Criteria

• You can apply for a new AEWV without spending 12 months outside New Zealand if you’re on a pathway to residence, meeting skill requirements such as occupational registration, qualifications, or income, and needing more time for skilled work experience.
• From November 27, 2023, you may apply for the remaining duration of an extended 5-year or 3-year AEWV.
• Note that your current AEWV will not automatically extend to the longer period.
• When applying for the balance, the regular AEWV application fee is applicable.
• If you meet the criteria, your partner and any dependent children are eligible for a further visa matching the length of your extended AEWV.
• They must adhere to standard visa requirements and pay the fees for their respective applications.
• Due to the anticipated high number of eligible applicants for the 5-year AEWV balance, all applications, particularly those with reused job tokens, are expected to be queued.The processing of AEWV balance applications follows a first-come, first-served basis. However, processing starts only when the current AEWV is within the next 9 months of expiry.
• Partner and dependent children visa applications are queued until the primary applicant’s decision is determined.
• If your existing AEWV expires before we finalize your balance application, you qualify for an interim visa that lasts up to 6 months, allowing you to continue your job.