As of June 26, 2024, changes have been implemented affecting Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) holders in New Zealand. These changes specifically target individuals in roles classified under levels 4 and 5 of the Australia and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO), without a direct pathway to residency.
Key Change: Restrictions on Supporting Family Visas
Visa holders in these roles can no longer support visa applications for their partners or dependent children. This change affects the ability to endorse:
- Work visas
- Visitor visas
- Student visas for family members
Note: Partners and dependent children can still apply for their own visas to enter New Zealand.
Eligibility Factors
To determine whether you can support a visa for your family, these factors come into play:
- Your job being on the Green List and meeting its requirements
- Your income level
- ANZSCO skill level of your occupation
- Age and school attendance of your dependent children
Dependent Children Criteria
- Ages 18-19: Must be single, have no children, and depend on you for financial support.
- Under 18: Must be single.
- Children aged 20-24 are not considered dependents for temporary visas but might qualify for future residency applications.
Work Visa Options for Your Partner
Depending on your situation, your partner may be eligible for:
- An open work visa (allowing them to work for any employer with no salary conditions)
- A visa with work conditions (requiring them to work for an Accredited Employer and meet the median wage of NZD 29.66 per hour, with exceptions under Sector Agreements).
Future Visa Changes for Families
You can support a visa for your partner or child in the future if:
- You receive a salary increase that meets the income requirements for your job and ANZSCO level.
- Your job is added to the Green List and you meet its requirements.
Additionally, your partner can apply to change their work visa to an open work visa if:
- You begin earning at least NZD 59.32 per hour.
- Your job is added to the Green List and you meet the specific role requirements.
How Can We Help You Navigate These Changes?
Understanding the new visa rules can be challenging, but we’re here to make the process as smooth as possible. We provide personalized guidance to help you and your family apply for the right visas, ensuring you meet all the requirements.
Contact us today for a consultation, and we’ll help you navigate these new visa regulations with ease.