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Job Check - The Accredited Employer Work Visa Process & NZ Green List Exemptions
Immigration New Zealand has established a streamlined process to ensure that businesses meet specific standards before hiring skilled migrant workers through the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) programme. Many of these eligible roles are listed on the NZ Green List, which identifies high-demand occupations that offer a clear pathway to residence. The AEWV process has three key stages:
The AEWV process has three key stages:
- Employer Accreditation. The NZ employer who wishes to hire skilled migrant workers must become officially accredited.
- Job Check. The job in question must be checked to meet the proper requirements.
- Visa Application. The potential AEWV holder must apply for their visa.
The Job Check plays a very vital role in confirming that the job being offered meets all legal and market requirements and that no suitable New Zealanders are available to fill the position themselves, unless the position qualifies for an NZ Green List exemption.
What is an AEWV Job Check and How Does it Relate to the NZ Green List?
The Job Check process is designed to ensure that the job being offered complies with New Zealand’s employment laws and market standards. This verification step confirms that the offered role meets specific criteria such as pay rates and working conditions, guaranteeing fair treatment for workers. For positions listed on the NZ Green List, the Job Check also streamlines the approval process, helping employers fill high-demand roles faster while maintaining compliance with immigration and labor requirements.
Additionally, along with checking the job itself, the Job Check will ensure that the employer made reasonable efforts to recruit a New Zealand citizen before opting for a skilled overseas worker. This helps ensure that qualified NZ residents have the first opportunity to take on the role and that employers do not exploit migrant workers by offering substandard working conditions. Successfully passing the Job Check can also support future Residence Visa applications, as it confirms compliance with New Zealand’s fair employment and immigration standards.
The Key Requirements for A Successful Job Check
To pass a job check, as an employer, you must meet these requirements:
- Employer Accreditation. Before you can apply for a job check, you must first become an officially accredited employer for the AEWV programme.
- Acceptable Job Offer, Employment Agreement, and Accurate Job Description. The job offer must comply with all of New Zealand’s employment laws. For instance, the job must offer a minimum of 30 hours of work per week, pay the market rate, and provide clear terms and conditions in the employment agreement.
- Labour Market Test (If Applicable). If the position you are hiring for is not on the NZ Green List, is not an applicable regional job, or does not pay at least twice the median wage, you will need to prove that there are no suitable NZ citizens or residents available who could fill the position.
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- The job must be advertised on a national platform for a minimum of two weeks. The ad should include details such as the job title, description, pay rate, minimum guaranteed hours, qualifications, and required work experience.
- An Appropriate Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO) Code. The job offered must be matched to the appropriate ANZSCO code so that it is categorised correctly.
How Much Does a Job Check Cost?
Employers should know that each job check process comes with fees. Currently, the cost of a job check is NZD $610. Be aware that if your job check application is declined, you can request reconsideration for a fee of NZD $240.
Navigating Your AEWV Job Check & Maximizing NZ Green List Opportunities with ASIC
To improve your chances of a successful AEWV Job Check, it is crucial to prepare the correct documentation and advertise your job properly. We understand that the AEWV programme can be confusing at times, especially when considering exemptions like the NZ Green List, which is why we at Auckland South Immigration Consultants would like to help.
Please reach out today if you are an accredited employer seeking assistance with your Job Check process, or if you are an employer or worker who would like expert guidance with the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) programme. Our team can help you understand how your role aligns with the NZ Green List and ensure your application meets all Immigration New Zealand requirements.