ACCREDITED EMPLOYER WORK VISA: AN OVERVIEW FOR APPLICANTS

New Zealand stands out globally for work-life balance among 60+ prosperous nations, offering great opportunities and a serene lifestyle with a Happiness Index of 7.2 and a Total Index Score of 79.35. The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) is crucial in shaping job opportunities for migrants in New Zealand's contemporary employment landscape.

Introduction to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)

Positioned as a central policy tool under Immigration New Zealand (INZ), the AEWV takes a leading role in addressing skill shortages in the country. It grants New Zealand employers the ability to hire foreign workers under defined conditions, facilitating global employment while safeguarding local job prospects. Maintaining this balance is vital for the nation's economic stability and the enhancement of workforce diversity.

Reasoning Behind AEWV's Pathway Role

The AEWV extends beyond being a simple immigration instrument, acting as a pathway that connects global talent with Kiwi employers facing skill gaps. Its essence is grounded in shaping a workforce that aligns seamlessly with the ever-changing economic needs of the nation.

Ensuring Transparency and Fairness in Visa Procedures

Operating under a strong legal framework defined by the Immigration Act 2009 and subsequent amendments, the AEWV ensures transparency and fairness in the visa process. This framework also aligns with New Zealand’s comprehensive economic strategies and labor market conditions.

Dynamic Changes: AEWV's Contribution to Immigration

The numbers stand out as of November 6, 2023, showcasing the impact of the AEWV: 94,015 approved applications and 29,868 accredited employers. The above-mentioned numbers draw focus to the considerable role that the AEWV has in shaping the immigration landscape of New Zealand. The visa is in demand because people find the country a great work spot, and the country is committed to keeping work practices at a high level.

Specific eligibility criteria for both employers and potential employees are defined by the AEWV program, guaranteeing a fair and systematic approach to immigration.

For Employers:
To hire through the AEWV in New Zealand, employers need to show they follow some rules:

1. Good Workplace Practices: They must follow the laws about work, like how employees are treated and keeping the workplace safe.
2. Human Resources Policies: They should have good rules and ways of working in their human resources department.
3. Training Local Staff: They need to prove they teach and hire people from the local community.
4. Financial Stability: They have to show they have a stable and lasting business.

For Employees:
If you want to work in New Zealand, you need to:

1. 1.Job Offer: Get a job offer from an approved employer.
2. Skills and Qualifications: Have the right skills and qualifications for the job you're offered.
3. Health and Character: Be healthy and have good character, following the standards set by INZ.
4. Salary Threshold: Earn at least the median wage, which is currently NZ$29.66 per hour.

Table1: Current and Previous Years' Median Earnings in New Zealand

Government's Dedication: Fair Pay for Foreign Workers

Responding to economic dynamics, New Zealand is set to raise the median wage to $31.61 per hour by February 2024, signaling the government's dedication to ensuring fair compensation for foreign workers.
Prepare for 2024 using our table showing current and expected median wages, along with annual salaries for a standard 40-hour work week. This tool is designed to help employers and job seekers in navigating New Zealand's changing economic conditions.
Table2: Understanding the Shift: New Zealand's Median Wages for Feb 2024 – Current Versus Projected, Including Hourly Rates and Annual Salaries (Calculated for 40-Hour Weeks)

Process of Application

The AEWV application process is meticulous, involving essential steps to guarantee thorough assessment and adherence.

Accreditation for Employers:
The accreditation process begins with employers applying, demonstrating the requirement for foreign talent and their commitment to fostering fair labor practices.

Employment Verification:
Confirm that the position cannot be filled locally and ensure that AEWV is used responsibly, preventing negative impacts on the local job market before beginning the employer accreditation process.

Application for Employment:
After your job check is approved, you can apply for the visa by submitting documents like passports, job offers, qualifications, health, and character certificates. Fees for accreditation, job check, and the visa application itself are part of the overall costs.Costs begin at NZD $750, with the possibility of staying for up to 3 years.

Timeline:
Depending on the complexity of the case and application volume, AEWV applications may take up to 65 weekdays for processing.

Benefits Offered by AEWV

The AEWV provides substantial benefits for both employers and employees, solidifying its status as a favored visa option.

Employers:

• Reach more skilled candidates to fill gaps.
• Save time and resources with simplified hiring.
• Draw in the best talent by cultivating a reputation as a fair workplace.

Employees:

• Heightened work stability with specific accredited employers.
• Exploring paths for potential residency in New Zealand for long-term prospects.
• Enjoying fairness in the workplace with equal employment rights and conditions.

Additional Features of Visa:

• • Work at least 30 hours per week in New Zealand.
  • For each year, receive study allowances for up to 3 months.
  • For diverse residence and skilled migrant visas, eligibility is granted.

Ongoing Updates and Changes in Policy Framework

Ongoing updates to New Zealand's immigration regulations, including the AEWV, reflect the country's commitment to staying in tune with the job market. Recent changes involve adjusting salary limits and simplifying the accreditation process.

Outcomes encountered by Applicants

Adapting to new salary thresholds and updated accreditation criteria is crucial for employers in light of recent changes. It is vital for employees to remain knowledgeable about the adjusted salary requirements and recognize their influence on eligibility.

In conclusion, Accredited Employer Work Visa is vital for skilled workers and local employers in New Zealand. To succeed, understand the criteria, follow the process, and stay updated on policy changes. It benefits both employers and employees, ensuring a fair work environment. Stay informed and seek professional advice for a successful AEWV application.