Changes to the (AEWV) Accredited Employer Work Visa

Starting from November 27, 2023, the AEWV program is undergoing several changes**:

1. Introduction of 'Maximum Continuous Stay' Rule: Everyone with an AEWV will now have a limit on how long they can stay continuously without leaving New Zealand to be eligible for another AEWV.

2. Increased Visa Length for Median Wage Earners:

For individuals earning at least the median wage, the AEWV length is being extended from 3 to 5 years.

3. Increased AEWV Length for Care Workforce Sector:

Those employed in the care workforce sector at the level 3 pay rate will see an increase in AEWV length from 2 to 3 years.

Example: If your AEWV is approved after November 27 and you earn at least the median wage:

• Your visa can be up to 5 years long.

• You can stay continuously for up to 5 years on one or more AEWVs.

• After 5 years, to apply for another AEWV, you need to spend 12 months outside New Zealand first.

• Once you've spent 12 months outside New Zealand, you may be eligible for another AEWV for up to 5 years.

4. Transition for Existing AEWVs:

• If you already had an AEWV approved before November 27, 2023, and are eligible for the longer visa length, you can apply for the remaining balance of the 5-year or 3-year visa.

• Your employer won't need another Job Check if your role and visa conditions remain unchanged.

5. Maximum Continuous Stay:

• The 'maximum continuous stay' refers to the total time allowed on an AEWV before you must leave New Zealand to be eligible for another AEWV.

• From November 27, those paid above the median wage will have a maximum continuous stay of 5 years.

• Similar continuous stay rules are introduced for sectors exempt from paying the median wage.

6. Visa Length vs. Continuous Stay:

• The maximum visa length might not always be the same as the maximum continuous stay.

• If the continuous stay is longer, subsequent AEWVs can only be approved up to the length of the maximum continuous stay.

7. Calculation of Continuous Stay:

• Continuous stay is counted from the date of your first AEWV issuance or your arrival in New Zealand on an AEWV (if issued while outside New Zealand).

• Any time spent on an AEWV approved before November 27, 2023, contributes to the new maximum continuous stay.

• Your continuous stay only resets after you've spent the required time outside New Zealand.

Pathway to Residence:

• If you're on a pathway to residence, you might not need to spend 12 months outside New Zealand to apply for another AEWV.

• More information on recognised pathways to New Zealand residence will be provided in the future.

Changes in AEWV Length:

• AEWV length for roles paid at least the median wage is increasing from 3 to 5 years.

• For care workforce roles paid below the median wage, the AEWV length is increasing from 2 to 3 years.

These changes aim to provide more flexibility and opportunities for individuals under the AEWV program, particularly in terms of visa length and eligibility criteria.

At Bankside Immigration, we take immense pride in guiding our client through a transformational journey that culminated in the successful acquisition of their desired immigration status in New Zealand. If you require assistance with your immigration case, please feel free to contact us for brief non obligatory discussion.

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The image was sourced from Freepik.com

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