Short-Term Exemptions to AEWV Skill Requirements for Specific Roles and Sectors

29 August 2024 – The New Zealand Government is introducing short-term changes to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) program to address workforce shortages in specific sectors. These changes will provide temporary exemptions from the AEWV minimum skill requirements for specific roles. At the same time, long-term adjustments to the AEWV are being considered.

What’s Changing?

Starting from 8 September 2024, specific roles in the following sectors will be exempt from the AEWV minimum skill requirements:

Meat and Seafood Processing:

  • Who is Eligible? New visa applicants who have been offered a role under the 2024/25 cap in the meat processing or seafood processing sector agreements.

Tourism and Hospitality:

  • Who is Eligible? Existing visa holders working in the tourism and hospitality sector, specifically in roles, are exempt from paying the February 2023 median wage.
  • Additional Conditions:
    • The visa is expiring on or before 31 March 2025.
    • The applicant is seeking a further 1-year AEWV for the same occupation.

Care Workforce:

  • Who is Eligible? Existing visa holders work in roles covered by the Care Workforce Sector Agreement.
  • Additional Conditions:
    • The visa was granted between 4 July 2022 and 23 November 2023.
    • The applicant has been earning at least NZD 26.16 per hour.
    • The applicant is seeking a further 1-year AEWV for the same occupation.

Important Notes

  • These exemptions only apply to the minimum skill requirements introduced in April 2024. Applicants must still meet all other requirements specified by the employer in the Job Check application.
  • These short-term changes are part of a broader review of the AEWV program to ensure it meets the needs of both employers and workers. Throughout the year, the government will continue targeted consultations on potential long-term improvements to the AEWV.

These adjustments aim to balance immediate workforce needs with the ongoing development of a more sustainable and effective visa system.

Read More 
  1. AEWV roles exempt from paying the February 2023 median wage rate
  2. How long you can stay in New Zealand
  3. Accredited Employer Work Visa  

Reference

https://www.immigration.govt.nz/

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