Significant Changes to the AEWV Scheme — What You Need to Know

The New Zealand government recently announced substantial changes to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) scheme, effective from 7 April 2024. These changes will have a profound impact on both employers in New Zealand and visa applicants, including those already in the country. Here's a comprehensive overview of the key changes that employers and migrant employees need to be aware of:

Changes Affecting Employers:

  1. Skill Requirements: Employers must ensure that workers meet the AEWV skill requirements set by Immigration NZ (INZ), including a minimum of 3 years of relevant work experience, and have the skills and experience specified in the Job Check.

  2. Accurate Records: Employers are expected to maintain accurate records, and failure to comply can lead to the suspension of their accreditation.

  3. Expanded Grounds for Suspension: Suspension of accreditation can now occur for any possible breach, not just specific accreditation requirements.

  4. ANZSCO Assessment: ANZSCO assessment will now be an integral part of AEWV applications, with deeper assessment against ANZSCO skill levels.

  5. Job Check Rules for ANZSCO Level 4 and 5 Jobs: Employers filling jobs at ANZSCO levels 4 and 5 must advertise for 21 days, engage with Work and Income, and declare why any suitable New Zealanders who applied were not hired.

  6. Informing INZ of Migrant Departures: Employers must inform INZ within 10 working days if a worker on an AEWV leaves employment a month or more before their visa expires.

  7. Franchisee Accreditation: Franchisee Accreditation will cease to exist from late 2024, with affected employers able to apply for standard, high volume, or triangular accreditation.

Changes Affecting Employees:

  1. Reduced Duration of AEWV for ANZSCO Levels 4 and 5 Roles: Workers in ANZSCO levels 4 and 5 roles in New Zealand paid at or above the median wage will now receive a maximum visa length of 2 years for new AEWV applications from 7 April 2024.

  2. English Language Requirement: Workers applying for ANZSCO levels 4 or 5 roles must meet English language requirements, which can be met through citizenship, where they were working and studying, or through English testing.

  3. Minimum Work Experience or Qualification Requirement: Applicants from 7 April 2024 must meet minimum requirements set by the government, including a minimum of 3 years of work experience or a minimum Level 4 relevant qualification.

  4. Work to Residence Changes for Bus and Truck Drivers: Bus and truck drivers applying for AEWV from 7 April onwards won't be able to apply for a Transport Sector Work to Residence visa.

  5. Changes to Green List: 6 new roles have been added to the Green list, while 11 previously announced roles will no longer be added.

These changes are significant and will require employers and employees to carefully consider their visa applications and employment arrangements. It is crucial to stay informed about these changes and how they may affect your organisation.

Lydia Walker