Are you aware of the latest Immigration changes?
As of 7 April 2024, there have been some changes in the Immigration space, specifically to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV).
It is really important that you understand these changes if you have migrant workers currently or wish to recruit migrant workers in the future. The below is an overview of some of the key changes, we recommend that you seek advice on further changes and how these changes may impact your business.
Current AEWV holders
The changes may affect the time they can stay in New Zealand without spending time outside of the country and eligibility for a subsequent AEWV. Please seek advice on this from an Immigration Lawyer, we can refer you to some fantastic Lawyers!
AEWV new applications - ANZSCO skill level 4 and 5
Minimum skill requirement: You must seek sufficient evidence of the below.
Unless your role is on the Green List and meets the Green List role requirements, or is paid at least twice the median wage, you must now ensure that migrants have:
o at least 3 years’ relevant work experience, or
o a relevant qualification at level 4 or above of the New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework (NZQCF).
Adhere to a standard of English: must be able to speak and understand English.
Shorter stays: maximum visa length reduced to 3 years from 5. Some exclusions apply, refer to immigration.govt.nz or seek advice.
Advertising length: Now 21 days instead of 14.
Work and Income: you must engage and advertise your role with Work and Income before you apply for a Job Check. You are obligated to consider any suitable New Zealand applicants. You must also declare as part of the Job Check process that there are no suitable New Zealand applicants and why they were not successful – Click here to understand this in more detail.
New Zealand applicants: there is a definition for 'suitable and available New Zealanders'
o be a New Zealand citizen or resident
o be qualified for the job or able to be trained on the job
o live close to where the job is or be able to move there
o have a practical way of travelling to the job, like a bus or their own car
o be available for full-time work in the hours you need.
Support
We know that at times, Immigration can be a tricky space to navigate with regular changes and updates. We recommend that you reach out for support and advice as early as possible to ensure you are compliant – the last thing you want is for your accreditation to be suspended and to receive fines of up to $3000 per breach for any breaches.
We can recommend the fabulous Sonny Lam from Queen City Law for any advice, many of our clients already work with Sonny for support with the process. His details are below and please connect in with us if you are unsure on where to go for support or if you require it.
Sonny Lam
· sonny@qcl.co.nz
GEORGIA CARR
People Advisor