The New Zealand Government has announced significant changes to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) program, affecting both visa applicants and employers. These changes include alterations to visa durations, eligibility criteria, English language requirements, and obligations for employers.
Changes for AEWV Holders
-
Duration Limitation:
- AEWV holders who applied before June 21, 2023, and are in ANZSCO level 4 and 5 jobs may no longer access the maximum stay of five years.
- Those in ANZSCO level 4 and 5 jobs on a pathway to residence remain unaffected.
-
Eligibility Criteria for Further AEWV:
- Applicants for a further AEWV after April 7, 2024, must meet updated criteria.
- ANZSCO level 4 and 5 job holders may not be eligible for the full five-year stay.
Changes for New AEWV Applications
-
Minimum Skill Requirement:
- Applicants must demonstrate either at least 3 years of relevant work experience or a relevant qualification at level 4 or above.
- Qualifications below the Bachelor’s degree level require an International Qualification Assessment.
-
Minimum Standard of English:
- Applicants for ANZSCO level 4 and 5 jobs must show English proficiency.
- The exemption applies to current applications and dependents.
-
Shorter Visa Length for Specific Roles:
- ANZSCO level 4 and 5 job holders may receive visas for a maximum of 2 years.
- Total continuous stay reduced to 3 years, requiring a 12-month departure before reapplication.
Exemptions and Exceptions
- Some ANZSCO level 4 and 5 jobs remain unaffected:
- Green List roles.
- Roles in transport and care sectors on a residence pathway.
- Jobs pay 1.5 times the median wage.
Changes for Employers
-
Accreditation Requirements:
- Employers face increased requirements during the accreditation and Job Check stages.
- Higher scrutiny on work experience, qualifications, English proficiency, and job durations.
-
Suitability Verification:
- Employers must ensure migrants possess the necessary skills before offering employment.
- Compliance is mandatory for all Job Check applications.
-
Minimum Work Hours:
- New AEWV issuance requires a commitment of at least 30 hours per week from employers.
-
Expanded Grounds for Suspension:
- Accreditation may be suspended for breaches, including those involving ANZSCO skill levels.
-
Suitable and Available New Zealanders:
- Employers must declare the unavailability of suitable New Zealanders for a job.
- Failure to hire suitable New Zealanders may result in Job Check decline.
-
Additional Requirements for ANZSCO Level 4 and 5 Jobs:
- Extended advertisement duration to 21 days.
- Mandatory engagement with Work and Income.
- The requirement to justify non-selection of New Zealand applicants in the Job Check.
-
Notification of Employee Departure:
- Employers must inform Immigration New Zealand promptly if a migrant employee leaves before visa expiry.
- Non-compliance may lead to accreditation revocation or suspension.
Future Changes
-
Franchisee Accreditation:
- Franchisee accreditation to end in late 2024.
- Franchisee employers can transition to standard, high-volume, or triangular employment accreditation.
These comprehensive changes aim to regulate AEWV issuance, ensure migrant workers’ skills match job requirements, and enhance employment opportunities for New Zealanders. Employers face heightened scrutiny and obligations, while visa applicants must meet stricter eligibility criteria. The adjustments reflect the government’s focus on balancing immigration policies with domestic labor market needs.
