Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)

The New Zealand Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) allows skilled workers from overseas to work for an accredited employer in New Zealand. This visa is designed to attract international talent to fill skill shortages in various industries. The AEWV provides a pathway for temporary employment and may also lead to residency in the future, depending on your job and employer.

Key Features of the New Zealand Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)

  • Work for an Accredited Employer: The visa allows you to work for a New Zealand employer who has been accredited by Immigration New Zealand to hire foreign workers.
  • Pathway to Residency: Some workers on the AEWV may qualify for residency if their job meets certain criteria.
  • Multiple Entry: The AEWV allows for multiple entries into New Zealand, meaning you can leave and re-enter the country during your visa’s validity period.
  • Stay Up to 3 Years: The visa is typically granted for up to 3 years, depending on the job offer and skill level.

Eligibility Requirements for the New Zealand Accredited Employer Work Visa

To apply for the New Zealand Accredited Employer Work Visa, you must meet certain eligibility criteria:

  1. Job Offer from an Accredited Employer

You must have a job offer from a New Zealand accredited employer. The employer must be approved by Immigration New Zealand to hire foreign workers through the AEWV.

  1. Job in a Skilled Occupation

The job offer must be for a role that meets New Zealand’s skill and salary thresholds. The salary offered must be at or above the median wage of NZD 29.66 per hour (as of 2024).

  1. Qualifications and Experience

You must have the necessary qualifications, skills, and experience for the job. These requirements will vary depending on the role, but you may need to provide evidence such as:

  • Degree or diploma in a related field.
  • Work experience in a similar role.
  • Any licenses or certifications required for the position.

  1. Health and Character Requirements

You must meet New Zealand’s health and character requirements, which may include:

  • A medical certificate and chest x-ray to prove good health if you are staying for more than 12 months.
  • A police clearance certificate from your home country to show good character.

  1. English Language Proficiency

While not a strict requirement for all AEWV applications, some roles may require you to demonstrate English language proficiency, particularly if the role involves communication with clients or the public.

Required Documents for the New Zealand Accredited Employer Work Visa

When applying for a New Zealand Accredited Employer Work Visa, you must provide several supporting documents:

  1. Valid Passport:
    • Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your intended stay in New Zealand.
  2. Job Offer from an Accredited Employer:
    • A copy of your employment contract or job offer letter from a New Zealand accredited employer, stating your role, salary, and duration of employment.
  3. Evidence of Qualifications and Experience:
    • Certified copies of your academic qualifications (degrees, diplomas) and letters from previous employers outlining your work experience.
  4. Health Certificate:
    • A medical certificate and chest x-ray if you are staying for more than 12 months.
  5. Police Clearance Certificate:
    • A police clearance certificate from your home country to prove good character.
  6. Visa Application Fee Payment Receipt:
    • Proof of payment for the visa application fee.

Application Process for the New Zealand Accredited Employer Work Visa

The process for applying for a New Zealand Accredited Employer Work Visa is straightforward, but it requires coordination between the employer and the employee.

  1. Job Offer from an Accredited Employer

Your employer must be accredited by Immigration New Zealand to hire foreign workers under the AEWV scheme. Ensure that you have a valid job offer from an accredited employer before applying for the visa.

  1. Submit Your Online Application

Complete the Accredited Employer Work Visa application online through Immigration New Zealand. Ensure you upload all the required documents, including your job offer, qualifications, and health and police certificates.

  1. Pay the Visa Application Fee

Pay the visa application fee, which is typically NZD 750. The exact fee may vary depending on your location and method of application.

  1. Wait for Visa Decision

Visa processing times can vary, but the AEWV is typically processed within 10 to 30 days, depending on individual circumstances and your country of application. You will receive a notification once your visa application is processed.

New Zealand Accredited Employer Work Visa Fees

The fees associated with the New Zealand Accredited Employer Work Visa include:

  • Visa Application Fee: NZD 750 (fees may vary depending on your country of application).
  • Medical Examination Fees (if required): Costs vary depending on the country and provider.
  • Police Certificate Fees (if required): Costs vary depending on your country and provider.

Validity and Duration of the New Zealand Accredited Employer Work Visa

The New Zealand Accredited Employer Work Visa is typically granted for a period of up to 3 years, depending on the job offer and your qualifications. If you continue to work for the same employer or change to another accredited employer, you may be able to apply for a visa extension.

Pathway to Residency

For some individuals, the Accredited Employer Work Visa can be a pathway to permanent residency through the Skilled Migrant Category or other residence pathways. If your role meets certain skill and salary thresholds, and you have been working in New Zealand for a specified period, you may be eligible to apply for residency.

How We Can Help

At A Square Migration Services, we provide comprehensive assistance with your New Zealand Accredited Employer Work Visa application. Our services include:

  • Eligibility Assessment: We assess your job offer, qualifications, and skills to ensure you meet the visa requirements.
  • Document Preparation: We assist in gathering and preparing all necessary documents, including proof of employment, qualifications, and health and police certificates.
  • Application Submission: We help you submit your visa application accurately and on time to avoid delays or rejections.
  • Ongoing Support: We provide continuous guidance throughout the visa process, including help with any additional requirements, such as medical or police certificates.

Work and Build Your Future in New Zealand with the AEWV

The New Zealand Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) offers you the opportunity to work for an accredited employer in New Zealand and potentially build a long-term future in the country. Whether you’re a skilled professional or a tradesperson, A Square Migration Services is here to help you navigate the visa process and ensure your application is successful.

Contact us today to start your New Zealand Accredited Employer Work Visa application and begin your journey to working in New Zealand!