Accredited Employer Work Visa in New Zealand

The Accredited Employer Work Visa in New Zealand offers a valuable opportunity for those seeking employment in the country. By working for an accredited employer, you can gain access to various work and study options that might not be available otherwise.

If your prospective employer is accredited, they will have the ability to hire you for a period of up to three years on this visa. During this time, you’ll be entitled to work for at least 30 hours per week and engage in short-term study for a maximum of 3 months within any 12-month period. Moreover, if you meet eligibility requirements, you could even apply for different types of visas, such as the Straight to Residence Visa, Work to Residence Visa, Care Workforce, or Transport Work to Residence Visa, depending on your specific circumstances.

It’s crucial to note that obtaining an Accredited Employer Work Visa in New Zealand requires working for an employer who is already accredited and can demonstrate their commitment to hiring New Zealanders for available positions. You must be paid at least the NZ median wage unless your role is part of an exemption list.

The Importance of Accredited Employer Work Visas?

The purpose of this visa is to address shortages in the labour market and prioritize hiring local talent. By obtaining this visa, you have an opportunity to work for a designated employer who has proven their commitment to employing and developing a New Zealand workforce while also bringing in necessary skills from abroad.

The importance of the Accredited Employer Work Visa in New Zealand lies in its contribution to New Zealand’s economic growth. This visa aims to reduce the country’s reliance on low-skilled migrant workers and ensures that New Zealanders are the first in line for job opportunities. Moreover, it helps employers to support their business needs by hiring professionals with specialized skills that may not be available locally. The benefits of this visa include a clear and streamlined process for both employers and applicants, resulting in a more efficient talent acquisition process.

Who Can Apply?

To apply for an Accredited Employer Work Visa in New Zealand, you must meet specific eligibility requirements. First, you need a job offer from an accredited employer who guarantees at least 30 hours of work per week. You can work in various professions and industries as long as the employer is accredited.

For you to be eligible for an Accredited Employer Work Visa in New Zealand, your employer must pay you at least the NZ median wage (NZD$61,692.80 as of 2023). Additionally, they must demonstrate that they cannot find suitable New Zealanders for the job first. You are also allowed to study for up to 3 months within any 12-month period or undertake any study required as part of your employment.

Remember, your employer must have a history of placing staff in New Zealand for the past 12 months, with at least 15% of them being New Zealand citizens or residents. These employees must also be guaranteed at least 30 hours of work each week.

How to Apply for the Accredited Employer Work Visa in New Zealand

Required Documents to Apply for an Accredited Work Visa

Before starting your application, make sure you have the following documents:

• A valid job offer from an accredited employer in New Zealand
• Evidence of your skills and qualifications (e.g., certificates, diplomas, or degrees)
• A valid passport
• A passport-sized photo
• A medical certificate (if required)
• A police clearance certificate (if required)
• Evidence of your English language ability (if required)

Step-by-step Guide on How to Apply

1. Confirm your employer’s accreditation: Before you start the application process, check if your employer is accredited by New Zealand Immigration. You can verify this by searching their New Zealand Business Number (NZBN), company name, or trading name.
2. Ensure you meet the eligibility requirements: Make sure you have a valid job offer from an accredited employer, the necessary skills and qualifications, and that you meet the English language requirement.
3. Gather your required documents: Collect all the required documents.
4. Complete the visa application form: Fill out the visa application form online through Immigration New Zealand’s website.
5. Pay the visa application fee: The cost of the visa application starts from NZD $750. Make sure you pay the correct fee according to your specific application.
6. Submit your application: After completing the form and paying the application fee, submit your application and wait for a decision.

These steps are designed to guide you through the application process for the Accredited Employer Work Visa in New Zealand, but working with immigration lawyers can make this complex process simpler and more manageable.

Expected Processing Time

The majority (90%) of applications for the Accredited Employer Work Visa in New Zealand are processed within 57 days. However, processing times may vary depending on individual circumstances and the complexity of your application.

Changes to the Accredited Employer Work Visa You Should Know

Starting from November 2023, the duration for which you can hold an Accredited Employer Work Visa will be extended. Instead of the previous 3 years, you’ll now be eligible to stay for up to 5 years under this visa category.

New Maximum Continuous Stay Requirement

It’s crucial to note that with this extension comes a new stipulation: there’s a 5-year maximum continuous stay on an Accredited Employer Work Visa in New Zealand. If you’re unable to prove you’re on a pathway to residency, after these 5 years, you’ll be required to spend 12 months outside of New Zealand before being eligible to reapply for another Accredited Employer Work Visa.

These revisions aim to provide greater clarity and certainty for you and other potential migrants while also supporting New Zealand’s economic ambitions.

Rights and Obligations of Visa Holders

As a holder of an Accredited Employer Work Visa in New Zealand, it is important to understand your rights and obligations to ensure that you comply with the conditions of your visa. This section covers the work conditions and limitations associated with your visa.

Work Conditions and Limitations: Your Accredited Employer Work Visa allows you to work only in the specific occupation, for the employer, and in the location specified on your visa. You are not permitted to work in different roles or for different employers without the appropriate approval. Your employer has also committed to providing you with specific work-related settlement information and support. They must also allow you time to complete study modules about working in New Zealand.

As an Accredited Employer Work Visa holder, you generally have the same rights as New Zealand workers, which include receiving at least the New Zealand median wage, unless your role is on an exemption list. Your employer must provide evidence that they cannot find suitable New Zealanders for the job before hiring you on an Accredited Employer Work Visa.

In terms of obligations, you are required to comply with the conditions of your visa, including:

• Maintaining a valid visa throughout your stay in New Zealand
• Not engaging in any criminal activities or violating any New Zealand laws
• Informing immigration authorities of any changes to your personal circumstances or employment situation

It is essential that you understand and follow these conditions to maintain your legal status in New Zealand and avoid any penalties or deportation.

As a holder of an Accredited Employer Work Visa in New Zealand, you must adhere to the work conditions and limitations specified on your visa and comply with the obligations towards your employer and immigration authorities. Understanding your rights and obligations as an Accredited Employer Work Visa holder will help ensure a smooth and successful stay in New Zealand.

Tips to increase the chances of a successful application

To increase your chances of a successful Accredited Employer Work Visa application in New Zealand, follow these tips:

1. Ensure your employer is accredited: Only accredited employers can offer Accredited Employer Work Visa to employees, so make sure your prospective employer is already accredited or in the process of getting accredited.

2. Meet the required skill level: The job offer you receive should be for a position that is at least at skill level 1, 2, or 3 as classified by Australia and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO).

3. Fulfill salary requirements: Your job offer must include a base salary of at least NZD $79,560 per year (as of 2022). A higher salary can improve your chances of a successful application.

4. Prepare a complete and accurate application: Ensure your application is thorough, accurate, and addresses all the necessary components. Double-check your details and provide supporting documentation, such as qualifications, work experience, and other relevant information.

5. Be in good health and character: As part of the Accredited Employer Work Visa application process, you will need to prove that you are healthy, have a clear criminal record, and have genuine intentions to work in New Zealand. Provide necessary health and character supporting documents.

6. Make sure you can support any dependents: If you have family members who will join you in New Zealand, be prepared to provide evidence that you can support them financially.

7. Stay up to date with policy changes: Immigration policies can change, so make sure you are familiar with the most recent Accredited Employer Work Visa requirements and application process before submitting your application.

By following these tips, you can increase your chances of a successful application for an Accredited Employer Work Visa in New Zealand and embark on an exciting career opportunity in the country.