Immigration update for construction employers
Immigration New Zealand has shared an update for the construction sector, including recent policy changes that may impact employers. Here you can find top tips on employing migrants at your business.
Allow enough time to apply
The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) system includes three gateways or checks (Employer Accreditation, Job Check, and the Migrant Check or AEWV) all of which contribute to the time it will take to support a migrant (if approved) to travel to New Zealand for work.
It is crucial that you allow enough time and factor in the time it takes for each phase of the process. The latest processing times are available on the Immigration New Zealand (INZ) website to help you plan accordingly.
INZ is working to improve processing times as a priority. More information on the work being done to speed up processing, while ensuring the necessary checks are made, is available on the INZ website.
Submit a complete application
Employers can help INZ by submitting complete employer accreditation and/or job check applications that include all the documents and evidence needed. This helps to assess your application and make a decision more quickly. Without all the necessary documentation being provided, your applications are likely to take longer to process. Incomplete applications may be declined without refunds meaning you will need to reapply and pay again.
Employment agreements that do not include mandatory employment conditions or include clauses that are unlawful are one of the most common reasons for delays or declines with Job Check applications. Employment agreements must meet all requirements under New Zealand employment law. For some tips for creating employment agreements that meet Job Check requirements, see the Employment Agreement Builder.
Updates and useful links
There have been a lot of changes to the AEWV in recent months affecting AEWV applications for lower skilled jobs that meet ANZSCO levels 4 or 5. Below are some useful links to provide you with information about these recent changes and how they affect you or your prospective employee.
- New guidance has been published for how to use ANZSCO, what to do before you apply for a Job Check, and how to advertise a role and engage with Work and Income.
- Find out how an AEWV applicant can meet the English language requirement for the AEWV if they have been offered a role at ANZSCO Level 4 or 5 by referring to the INZ website.
- There is now a requirement for employers to notify INZ when a migrant on an AEWV has left your employment. The correct form and process is now available on the INZ website.
- The Government announced increases to visa changes from 1 October 2024, see the INZ website.
- INZ has updated AEWV resources to align with the policy changes made in April 2024.
- Follow the INZ Facebook page to keep up to date with news, information and announcements.