The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) was introduced in July last year as a pathway for migrants to work in New Zealand. Immigration NZ recently announced that significant changes will be implemented regarding the maximum continuous stay period for AEWV holders.
Effective from November 2023, a maximum continuous stay period of 5 years will be introduced for most migrants holding an Accredited Employer Work Visa. This means that after 5 years on an AEWV, individuals will be required to leave New Zealand for a minimum period of 12 months. This change aims to strike a balance between providing employment opportunities to skilled migrants and ensuring that the country's labour market remains dynamic and diverse.
While the maximum continuous stay period is set at 5 years, individuals who can demonstrate that they are on a pathway to skilled residence may be eligible for a further AEWV. For instance, if a migrant on an AEWV starts earning 1.5 times the median wage after 3 years and requires 1 more year of skilled experience to qualify for 6 points for the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa, they may be able to obtain an extension at the end of the initial 5-year period. This provision recognizes the contribution of skilled migrants and allows them to continue their journey towards permanent residence.
To align with this change, the maximum duration of an Accredited Employer Work Visa will also be extended from three years to five years, from November 2023. Existing AEWV holders with a 3-year visa will have the opportunity to apply for another AEWV that allows them to stay in New Zealand for a total of 5 years, without requiring their employer to undergo a job check as long as their visa conditions remain the same.
The introduction of a maximum continuous stay period for Accredited Employer Work Visa holders brings important changes to New Zealand's immigration landscape. Balancing the needs of skilled migrants and the labour market, these modifications create a clearer pathway to skilled residence and promote a diverse workforce that contributes to the country's prosperity and growth.
What does this mean for migrants? While the changes benefit those who have a clear pathway to residency, those who don’t may be forced to leave the country despite already being in New Zealand for many years. If you find yourself in this situation, this is a good time to assess what your next steps are to secure your future in New Zealand. Our team of Licensed Immigration Advisers will help you navigate the changes and assess your qualifications, work experience, and current role to advise you of what you can do to stay in the country. Contact us today to book an individual consultation.
