Starting from March 2025, the New Zealand Government will implement changes to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) scheme. These changes aim to improve the AEWV program, address labor shortages, and support both workers and employers in New Zealand. Below are the key points:
1. Removal of Minimum Salary Requirement:
The minimum salary requirement for AEWV will be removed, making it easier for workers and employers to meet the conditions of the visa.
2. Change in Experience Requirements:
The experience requirement for workers applying for AEWV will be reduced from 3 years to 2 years for positions classified under skill levels 4 and 5. This ensures that migrants have the necessary skills while addressing key issues raised during the consultation process.
>> Relevant qualifications at Level 4 or above in the New Zealand Qualifications and Credit Framework (NZQCF). If the qualification is below a bachelor’s degree, an International Qualification Assessment (IQA) will be required.
3. Extended Visa Duration for Skill Level 4 and 5 Jobs:
The visa duration will be increased to 3 years for new AEWVs granted for jobs classified under skill levels 4 or 5 according to the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO). The visa duration will change from 2 years (with an additional 1-year option) to 3 years, aligning with the total length of stay these workers can have in New Zealand.
>> Those currently holding a 2-year visa will be able to apply for an additional 1-year AEWV if they meet the requirements.
4. Change in Salary Requirement for Sponsoring Children:
The salary requirement for workers to sponsor their children will be adjusted. AEWV holders will need to earn at least NZD 55,844 per year to bring their children, in addition to meeting other criteria.
5. Removal of Online Modules Requirement by Employment New Zealand:
Starting from January 27, 2025, the requirement to complete the online modules of Employment New Zealand will be removed for all accredited employers and employers under the Recognized Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme. Instead, INZ will provide employers and workers with links to the Employment New Zealand or INZ websites with free access to information about employment rights and obligations at the most relevant stages of the immigration process.
6. Changes to Temporary Work Rights:
From April 2025, temporary work rights will be extended to AEWV applicants applying from any type of work visa or student visa that allows work during studies, helping workers maintain employment while waiting for their visa application to be processed.
>> More information about these changes will be available in early 2025.
The above outlines the updates to the Accredited Employer Work Visa. CONTACT US for consultation and to have any questions about the Accredited Employer Work Visa in New Zealand answered.
This translation provides a clear explanation of the upcoming changes to the AEWV and how they will affect both workers and employers in New Zealand.
