ACCREDITED EMPLOYER WORK VISA (AEWV) IN NEW ZEALAND

The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) allows skilled workers to work for a specific employer in New Zealand. This visa is designed to support New Zealand employers who have been accredited by Immigration New Zealand (INZ) to recruit workers from overseas to fill skilled job vacancies that they have been unable to fill locally.

Key features of the Accredited Employer Work Visa include:

  • Employer Accreditation: To be eligible for the AEWV, the employer must first obtain accreditation from INZ. Accredited employers have demonstrated a commitment to training and employing New Zealand citizens and residents and have met specific criteria set by INZ.
  • Job Offer: Applicants for the AEWV must have a genuine job offer from an accredited employer in New Zealand. The job offer must meet certain criteria, including being for a skilled occupation and offering terms and conditions of employment that are in line with New Zealand employment standards.
  • Duration of Visa: The AEWV allows skilled workers to work for their accredited employer for a specified period, usually up to three years. After this period, the visa can be renewed if the worker continues to meet the requirements.
  • Pathway to Residence: The AEWV may provide a pathway to residence in New Zealand for skilled workers. After holding the visa and working for an accredited employer for a specified period, individuals may become eligible to apply for residence under the Skilled Migrant Category or other residence pathways.
  • Family Sponsorship: Skilled workers holding the AEWV may be able to sponsor their partner and dependent children to join them in New Zealand. Family members can apply for visas based on their relationship to the visa holder.
  • Health and Character Requirements: Applicants for the AEWV must meet health and character requirements as specified by INZ. This may involve undergoing medical examinations and providing police clearance certificates.

Application process for the Accredited Employer Work Visa:

  • Employer Accreditation: The employer initiates the process by applying for accreditation from INZ. Once accredited, they can offer jobs to skilled workers overseas.
  • Job Offer: Skilled workers receive a job offer from the accredited employer. They then apply for the AEWV, providing supporting documents such as identity documents, qualifications, and evidence of English language proficiency.
  • Visa Approval: If the application is approved, the skilled worker receives the AEWV, allowing them to work for the accredited employer in New Zealand.

For detailed information on eligibility criteria, application process, and requirements for the Accredited Employer Work Visa in New Zealand, individuals are advised to consult the official website of Immigration New Zealand (INZ) or seek assistance from qualified immigration professionals.