Streamlined AEWV Requirements: Simplified Evidence Submission and Employment Agreement Updates

The New Zealand Government has implemented several changes to improve the efficiency of the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) scheme:

1. Training and Streamlining: As of 20 November 2024, employers must ensure recruitment staff complete Employment New Zealand learning modules and migrant workers are given paid time for these. Employers no longer need to submit additional evidence for accreditation renewals unless concerns arise.
2. Improved Processing Times: INZ has prioritised faster processing, achieving a 73% increase in AEWV decisions, 57% in Job Check applications, and 25% in employer accreditation applications in October compared to September.
3. Reduced Backlog: Since September 2024, AEWV applications in progress have decreased by 51%, employer accreditation by 41%, and Job Check applications by 28%.
4. Future Considerations: INZ is exploring further changes, such as removing the need to provide an employment agreement with Job Check applications and completing Employment New Zealand modules, to continue enhancing the AEWV scheme’s efficiency.

These efforts aim to make the system more responsive and reduce delays, helping employers fill critical roles more swiftly.