New Zealand has announced its Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV), outlining the eligibility requirements and application process for foreign workers seeking employment in the country.
Under the scheme, overseas workers can work for an accredited New Zealand employer for at least 30 hours a week.
Visa duration and benefits
Depending on the job, skill level and salary, eligible workers may be allowed to stay in New Zealand for up to five years.
The visa can also provide a pathway to apply for residence in New Zealand, depending on the worker’s job and eligibility under the country’s immigration rules.
Visa holders can also study for up to three months in any 12-month period, or complete training required for their employment.
Key eligibility requirements
Applicants must have a valid job offer from an accredited New Zealand employer.
New Zealand law prohibits employers and recruitment agents from charging workers recruitment costs or unlawful fees.
Applicants must have at least two years of relevant work experience or a qualification at Level 4 or above under the New Zealand Qualifications Framework.
A CV alone is not considered sufficient evidence of work experience. Applicants may need to provide documents such as employment certificates, payslips and tax records.
Applicants for Level 4 or 5 roles must also meet the required English-language standards.
Depending on the application, candidates may also need to provide medical examination results, including an X-ray, and a police clearance certificate.
How to apply
An accredited employer provides the successful candidate with a job offer and a unique online application link or job token.
Applicants should prepare scanned copies of the required documents, including police and medical certificates, along with English translations where necessary.
They can then complete the online application, upload the required documents and pay the visa fee, which starts from NZ$1,540.
According to the stated processing information, 80% of applications are processed within six weeks.
Once an application is approved, the applicant receives an electronic visa allowing them to work in New Zealand under the conditions of their visa.
