Accreditation Applications

Steve Baker • June 13, 2024

What you need to know.

Job Check applications opened on 20 June 2022 and AEWV applications opened on 4 July 2022. 

As of 20 May 2024, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) had approved 120,065 AEWV applications and there were 35,591 accredited employers.


Ensure your employer is accredited:

https://www.immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas/preparing-a-visa-application/working-in-nz/check-if-an-employer-is-accredited


On 7 April 2024, changes were announced to the Accredited Employer Work Visa scheme. 

These changes include the following:


  • Introducing an English language requirement for migrants applying for low skilled ANZSCO level 4 and 5 roles.
  • A minimum skills and work experience threshold for most AEWV roles. This is important as you now need to meet these requirements for skill level 1-3 roles.
  • For roles that fall into the ANZSCO level 4 and 5, employers will need to engage with Work and Income before approval to bring in migrants will be granted.
  • Reducing the maximum continuous stay for most ANZSCO level 4 and 5 roles from 5 years to 3 years.
  • Disestablishing the franchisee accreditation category and for these businesses to apply to bring in workers from overseas through the standard, high-volume, or triangular employment accreditation.

 

Changes to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) Accreditation process:

Before employers can invite a worker to apply for an AEWV they must apply to us for employer accreditation, advertise the role if they need to, and apply for a Job Check.


Under the AEWV there are a range of verification steps at the application process through the accreditation, Job Check and work visa steps, as well as post-accreditation checks.


INZ constantly review and adjust their settings to ensure they are fit for purpose and strike the right balance between bringing in the migrants that New Zealand needs and protecting the integrity of the NZ immigration system.

 

If you or your company require support, please contact me for an obligation free conversation.

 

Kind Regards,

 

Steve Baker
General Manager
Licensed Immigration Advisor 201801044

P: 03 353 0680
M: 027 212 5483
W: advisa.co.nz


Hands writing notes in a small spiral notebook on a white desk with open planners and papers.
By Steve Baker July 27, 2026
From 24 August 2026, the SMC offers three ways to qualify. None replaces the others, and you only need to meet the requirements of the one pathway you apply to.
Forked garden path with a white cross monument and two people walking in the distance
By Steve Baker July 13, 2026
The new available routes: Skilled Work Experience pathway & Trades and Technician pathways.
Two professionals shaking hands in a bright office corridor
By Steve Baker July 1, 2026
In September 2025, the NZ Government announced changes to help New Zealand employers attract and retain skilled workers and support long-term economic growth.
New Zealand flag waving against a sunset sky
By Steve Baker June 24, 2026
While the citizenship process is faster than it has been in recent years, it is still important to get it right the first time.
By Steve Baker June 4, 2026
The change will be most felt in industries that rely heavily on Level 3 mid skilled roles, creating immediate pressure on labour and project delivery.
By Steve Baker May 25, 2026
English Language requirements extended to AEWV skill level 3
By Steve Baker May 13, 2026
Find out more infomation through the provided link
By Steve Baker April 10, 2026
New residence pathways are scheduled to take effect late August 2026. These pathways are in addition to the current system and require key elements to be met.
By Steve Baker March 5, 2026
Immigration New Zealand is announcing further detail on changes to the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) ahead of these changes taking effect from late August 2026.
By Steve Baker February 23, 2026
This scheme has already secured at least $3.39 billion in committed investment, according to Immigration NZ.