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Introduction

Are you looking to live and work in New Zealand? If you possess specific skills, you might be eligible for the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV). Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you understand the application process and what to anticipate. 

What is an Accredited Employer Work Visa?

The Accredited Employer Work Visa allows employees to live and work in New Zealand for up to five years. Certain occupations also offer a pathway to permanent residence. These jobs are listed on “The Green List.” For these roles, migrants can apply for residence immediately if they are within the listed professions or after completing two years of work in New Zealand. This visa category is designed for workers whose skills are in high demand in New Zealand but are not available locally. 

 

For more information on the Green List of occupations and criteria, click here. 

What are the criteria for the AEWV?

Applicants must have a full-time job offer from an accredited New Zealand employer who: 

  • Has been unable to fill the position with a local worker. 
  • Has completed a Job Check. 
  • Can demonstrate that the pay is equal to or above the median wage. 
  • Can prove that attempts to recruit local talent have failed through a labour market test. 

 

All applicants must: 

  • Meet “good character” requirements – a police certificate from your country of origin is required. 
  • Meet “good health” requirements – a medical certificate from your country of origin is required. 
  • Provide evidence of work experience and qualifications for the job offered. 

Application process and Processing time?

You apply online. Immigration New Zealand typically processes 80% applications in 4 months. As soon as you receive a job offer, start preparing your documents, including work verification, evidence of qualifications, police clearances, and medical and X-ray certificates. 

Submit your application, supporting documents, and application fees to Immigration New Zealand. 

Note: There is an official list of accredited employers. If you have a job offer and are unsure about an employer’s accreditation status, it is best to check it here. 

Pro Tip: To reduce your processing time, ensure your application is error-free and includes all required information and documentation as specified by INZ. Need assistance? Contact us at SOL Edu & Migration to evaluate your case. 

How much does it cost for the applicant?

Application costs vary based on your country of origin and your location at the time of application. Additionally, you will need to pay for medical screenings, police records, and possibly translations. The AEWV Visa cost starts at $750. To confirm your fee, visit the INZ fee finder and enter your location. 

There are no refunds if your application is declined. For country-specific information on application costs, visit the INZ’s fees finder. 

How much does it cost for the employer?

You pay a different fee depending on the type of accreditation you need: 

  • Standard accreditation — up to 5 migrants at any one time — is NZD $740. If you upgrade from standard to high-volume accreditation the fee is NZD $480. 
  • High-volume accreditation — 6 or more migrants at any one time — is NZD $1220. 
  • Franchisee accreditation is NZD $1980. 
  • Controlling third party accreditation is NZD $3870. 
  • It costs NZD $610 to apply for a Job Check. 

If Immigration NZ declines an employer’s application for accreditation you can ask them to reconsider their decision. The fee for this is NZD $240 to reconsider application for accreditation or a declined job check. 

When to get help

If you’re considering applying for the AEWV to work in New Zealand, seek Migration advice from the outset. If your visa application is rejected, your fees will not be refunded, and you’ll have to start the entire process over. 

The AEWV category often sees a significant number of unsuccessful applications due to applicants not fully understanding or completing the paperwork correctly. Common reasons for rejection include: 

  • Inability to prove the ability to do the job at the required level. 
  • Job experience or skills gained overseas not matching the job check criteria or failing to meet the required standards. 
  • Not meeting character requirements. 
  • Not meeting health conditions. 

How we can assist

We at SOL Edu & Migration can prepare & review your application, advise you on the evidence needed to build the best case. Employers are unlikely to hold a job open for you if you encounter difficulties obtaining a visa, so it’s crucial that all documentation is accurate and up to date to ensure smooth processing for all parties involved.