Get an AEWV

How to Secure an Accredited Employer Work Visa NZ in Just 5 Easy Steps

An Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) NZ can be a game-changer for your career, offering the opportunity to work and live in New Zealand. This visa allows you to work for an accredited employer who guarantees at least 30 hours of work per week. Benefits include the ability to study for up to three months in any 12-month period or engage in employment-required education. Valid for up to five years, this visa provides a stable pathway to enrich your professional and personal life.

To make the process straightforward, we’ve broken it down into 5 easy steps:

  1. Understanding the AEWV and Its Requirements
  2. Gathering Required Documentation for Your AEWV Application
  3. Meeting Wage Rate Requirements and Additional Criteria of the AEWV
  4. Understanding Occupational Registration and Settlement Information in Relation to the AEWV
  5. Ensuring Compliance with Employment and Immigration Laws for a Successful AEWV Application

Following these steps carefully will help you navigate the application process smoothly and successfully secure your Accredited Employer Work Visa in New Zealand.

Step 1: Understanding the AEWV and Its Requirements

The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) is designed to allow individuals to work in New Zealand for an employer who has been accredited by Immigration New Zealand. This visa offers a pathway for skilled workers to contribute to the local economy while experiencing life in New Zealand. It also provides opportunities to study up to three months in any 12-month period or undertake study required as part of employment.

  • Eligibility Criteria for the Visa

Securing an AEWV hinges on meeting specific eligibility criteria:

  • Accredited Employer

You must have a job offer from an accredited employer. Accreditation ensures that the employer meets set standards, providing assurance of quality employment conditions.

  • Minimum Hours

The job offer must guarantee at least 30 hours of work per week. This requirement ensures that you have a stable and substantial employment arrangement.

  • Other Requirements

In addition to the above, there are other requirements that must be met:

  1. Proof of Identity
  2. Good Character
  3. Good Health
  4. Demonstrating genuine intentions to work and live in New Zealand.

Understanding these requirements is crucial for preparing a successful application. By ensuring you meet all eligibility criteria, you pave the way for a smooth application process.

Step 2: Gathering Required Documentation for Your AEWV Application

Successful submission of the AEWV application depends on careful preparation of documents. Here are the main ones you need:

Proof of Identity

  • Passport: Make sure your passport is valid and won’t expire in the next six months.
  • Photographs: You’ll usually need two recent passport-sized photos.

Proof of Good Character

  • Police Certificates: You’ll need these from every country where you’ve lived for 12 months or more in the past 10 years.
  • Character References: Letters from trustworthy sources can support your application.

Proof of Good Health

  • Medical Certificates: This should include results from a thorough medical examination, including chest X-rays if required.
  • Health Insurance: Show evidence that you have sufficient health insurance coverage.

Demonstrating Genuine Intentions

  • Cover Letter: Clearly explain why you want the visa and your commitment to working and studying in New Zealand.
  • Financial Statements: Provide bank statements to demonstrate your financial stability and ability to support yourself.

Job Offer

  • Offer Letter from an Accredited Employer: This must include detailed job descriptions and proof that the employer is accredited.

Each document is important for proving your eligibility and intentions. Make sure they are accurate and up-to-date to make the application process smoother.

Step 3: Meeting Wage Rate Requirements and Additional Criteria of the AEWV

Wage Rate Requirements for AEWV Applicants

To secure an Accredited Employer Work Visa, you must meet the wage rate requirements. The minimum wage for AEWV applicants is NZD $29.66 per hour. This amount is based on the median wage rate in February 2023, ensuring that visa holders are fairly compensated. It’s important to check if your job offer meets or exceeds this threshold, unless your occupation falls under a specific exemption category.

Additional Criteria Based on ANZSCO Skill Level

The Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO) skill level also affects your AEWV application. Jobs are divided into different skill levels, which determine additional criteria such as work experience and qualifications.

  • Skill Level 1-3 Jobs: Generally require higher qualifications and more extensive work experience.
  • Skill Level 4-5 Jobs: May have lower qualification requirements but still require relevant experience.

Importance of Providing Evidence

Providing evidence of your work experience and qualifications is crucial during the application process. This documentation may include:

  • Certified copies of diplomas or degrees
  • Employment references that explain your roles, responsibilities, and duration of employment
  • Professional certifications related to your occupation

Meeting these criteria not only complies with immigration regulations but also strengthens your application by demonstrating your suitability for the position offered by the accredited employer.

Step 4: Understanding Occupational Registration and Settlement Information in Relation to the AEWV

Occupational registration may be a crucial requirement for certain professions applying for the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV). Professions such as healthcare, engineering, and teaching often necessitate this registration to ensure adherence to New Zealand’s professional standards. You must verify if your specific occupation requires such registration and complete this process promptly to avoid delays in your visa application.

Employers play a significant role in providing settlement information and support to AEWV applicants. Settlement support includes:

  • Assistance with housing: Helping you find suitable accommodation.
  • Community integration: Introducing you to local communities or networks.
  • Healthcare access: Guiding you through the process of registering with local health services.
  • Workplace orientation: Offering training and resources to help you acclimate to your new workplace smoothly.

Receiving adequate settlement information and support from your employer is essential not only for meeting visa requirements but also for ensuring a seamless transition into your new life in New Zealand. This support can make a substantial difference in your overall experience, helping you feel more connected and settled in your new environment.

Step 5: Ensuring Compliance with Employment and Immigration Laws for a Successful AEWV Application

Employers play a crucial role in ensuring the success of your Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) application. They must adhere to New Zealand’s employment and immigration laws, which are designed to protect both workers and the integrity of the visa process.

Key Responsibilities of Employers:

  • Accreditation: Only accredited employers can offer positions that qualify for the AEWV. Accreditation ensures that employers meet specific standards related to their financial stability, employment practices, and commitment to worker welfare.
  • Compliance with Employment Laws: Employers must comply with all New Zealand employment laws, including providing fair wages, safe working conditions, and non-discriminatory practices.
  • Immigration Law Compliance: Employers need to ensure that they do not hire individuals who are not legally entitled to work in New Zealand. This includes verifying the visa status of employees and maintaining accurate records.

Payment Requirements:

A critical component of the AEWV is meeting the wage rate requirements. As of February 2023, employers must pay at least NZD $29.66 per hour, which aligns with the median wage rate. This requirement ensures that migrant workers receive fair compensation and helps maintain wage standards across industries.

Note: Some occupations may be exempt from this wage requirement; however, these exemptions are limited and subject to specific conditions outlined by Immigration New Zealand.

Ensuring compliance with these requirements not only supports your visa application but also fosters a positive relationship between you and your employer. It underscores the importance of transparency, fairness, and adherence to legal standards in building a successful career in New Zealand.

Conclusion

Securing an Accredited Employer Work Visa NZ requires careful adherence to the outlined steps. Following these 5 Easy Steps ensures a smoother application process:

  1. Understanding the AEWV and its requirements
  2. Gathering necessary documentation
  3. Meeting wage rate and additional criteria
  4. Comprehending occupational registration and settlement information
  5. Ensuring compliance with employment and immigration laws

By staying informed and thorough, you improve your chances of successfully obtaining the visa, allowing you to work and live in New Zealand with confidence.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

What is the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) and what are its benefits?

The AEWV is a type of visa that allows individuals to work in New Zealand for an accredited employer for at least 30 hours per week. Its benefits include the opportunity to gain work experience in New Zealand and potentially qualify for permanent residency.

What are the eligibility criteria for the AEWV?

To be eligible for the AEWV, individuals must have an offer of employment from an accredited employer and be able to work at least 30 hours per week. Additionally, applicants must meet specific documentation requirements related to identity, character, health, and genuine intentions to work and study in New Zealand.

What documentation is required for the AEWV application process?

Documentation required includes proof of identity, evidence of good character and good health, demonstration of genuine intentions to work and study in New Zealand, and obtaining a job offer from an accredited employer.

What are the wage rate requirements for the AEWV applicants?

Applicants for the AEWV must meet specific wage rate requirements based on their job’s ANZSCO skill level. Additionally, they need to provide evidence of relevant work experience and qualifications.

Are there any potential occupational registration requirements for certain professions in relation to the AEWV?

Yes, certain professions may have occupational registration requirements. It’s important to receive settlement information and support from the employer to ensure compliance with any applicable regulations.

What are the employer’s responsibilities in complying with New Zealand employment and immigration laws for a successful AEWV application?

Employers play a crucial role in ensuring compliance with New Zealand employment and immigration laws. This includes paying at least NZD $29.66 per hour unless exempted from this requirement.