The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) is New Zealand’s primary temporary work visa, designed to prioritize employment opportunities for New Zealanders while allowing employers to fill skill gaps with migrant workers when necessary. This visa plays a crucial role in balancing the need for skilled labour with the country’s commitment to protecting local jobs.
AEWV Overview and Purpose
Introduced to ensure New Zealanders are the first in line for job opportunities, the AEWV helps employers hire skilled migrants in cases of genuine skill shortages. This visa also aims to protect migrant workers from exploitation by requiring employers to obtain accreditation before they can hire from overseas. All applications for this visa are processed through Immigration New Zealand’s (INZ) online platform, Immigration Online.
Key Milestones and Statistics
Since the AEWV scheme opened, several key milestones have been achieved:
23 May 2022: Employer accreditation applications began.
20 June 2022: Job Check applications opened.
4 July 2022: Work visa applications were accepted.
As of 29 July 2024, INZ has approved 123,915 AEWV applications, with 31,873 employers accredited and 84,678 visa holders currently in New Zealand.
Recent Changes to the AEWV
In April 2024, INZ introduced significant changes to the AEWV scheme to enhance its effectiveness and fairness. Key changes include:
English Language Requirement: Migrants applying for low-skilled roles (ANZSCO levels 4 and 5) must now meet an English language requirement.
Minimum Skills and Experience Threshold: Most AEWV roles now require a minimum level of skills and work experience.
Work and Income Engagement: Employers hiring for ANZSCO level 4 and 5 roles must engage with Work and Income before approval to hire migrants.
Reduced Maximum Stay: The maximum continuous stay for most ANZSCO level 4 and 5 roles has been reduced from 5 years to 3 years.
Franchisee Accreditation Changes: The franchisee accreditation category has been disestablished, and such businesses must now apply through the standard accreditation processes.
Accreditation Process and Compliance
Before hiring migrant workers under the AEWV, employers must undergo a thorough accreditation process, which includes applying for accreditation, advertising the role (if required), and passing a Job Check. INZ conducts post-accreditation checks to ensure employers continue to meet their obligations. These checks are routine and target a sample of accredited employers, including random selections, controlling third-party business models, and those flagged through complaints.
As of 29 July 2024, INZ has completed 4,228 post-accreditation checks on 3,063 employers, with 399 more checks in progress. The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) has received 3,670 complaints against accredited employers, and 293 active investigations are currently underway. To date, 419 employers have had their accreditation revoked, and 65 have had it suspended, often due to issues like liquidation or non-compliance with accreditation standards.
Employer Obligations and Consequences of Non-Compliance
Employers must take their AEWV obligations seriously, as failing to comply with employment or immigration laws can lead to penalties, including suspension or revocation of accreditation. While the majority of employers adhere to the rules and treat their migrant workers fairly, INZ remains vigilant in monitoring compliance to protect both the integrity of the immigration system and the rights of migrant workers.
Independent Review and Ongoing Monitoring
In August 2023, an independent review of the AEWV was announced, and its findings have been published by Te Kawa Mataaho Public Service Commission. INZ continues to review and adjust the AEWV scheme to ensure it meets New Zealand’s labour market needs while safeguarding the immigration system’s integrity.
For employers and migrant workers alike, understanding the AEWV’s requirements and staying informed about any changes is essential for navigating the visa process successfully. As the AEWV evolves, INZ’s commitment to fair and transparent processes remains central to its mission.
For more detailed information on the AEWV, you can visit the official Immigration New Zealand website. As with any legislative changes, it's essential to consult official sources for the most accurate and up-to-date information as this post is up to date at time of posting.
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