Frequently Asked Questions

New Zealand immigration can be confusing, particularly when you're trying to work out which visa pathway applies to you or what you need to do as an employer.

Below are answers to some of the questions I commonly receive from migrants and New Zealand employers.

Employers

Do I need to become an accredited employer to hire a migrant worker in New Zealand?

If you want to hire a migrant on an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV), your business will need to hold valid AEWV employer accreditation.

Employer accreditation is the first stage of the AEWV process. Once accredited, you will need to complete a Job Check for the role before the migrant can apply for their AEWV.

There are different accreditation types, so it is important to make sure you are applying for the right one for your business and recruitment needs.

You can read more about the accreditation process in my guide: AEWV Employer Accreditation.

What is the difference between employer accreditation, a Job Check and an AEWV?

The AEWV process generally involves three stages:

Employer Accreditation – the employer becomes accredited with Immigration New Zealand.

Job Check – Immigration New Zealand assesses the position being offered to the migrant, including the employment conditions and any required advertising or recruitment.

AEWV application – the migrant applies for their work visa using the approved Job Check.

Each stage has its own requirements, and an issue at an earlier stage can affect the migrant's visa application later.

You can read more about the full process in my guide: Hiring a Migrant Worker: Getting the Process Right from the Start.

Do I need to advertise a job before hiring a migrant worker?

In most cases, yes.

Depending on the position, employers may need to advertise the role and genuinely attempt to recruit suitable New Zealand citizens or residents before completing an AEWV Job Check.

There are specific requirements around advertising and recruitment. It is important to get this right before placing your advertisement, as an advertisement that does not meet Immigration New Zealand requirements may need to be run again.

You can read more about what is involved in my guide: Understanding the Job Check Process in NZ.

What happens if New Zealand citizens or residents apply for my advertised role?

Receiving applications from New Zealand citizens or residents does not automatically mean you cannot proceed with hiring a migrant.

However, you need to genuinely consider the applicants against the requirements of the role and keep appropriate records of your recruitment process.

If a New Zealander is not suitable or available, the reason should be genuine and supported by the recruitment information you have.

What are my obligations as an AEWV accredited employer?

Employer accreditation comes with ongoing responsibilities.

These include complying with New Zealand employment and immigration requirements, providing appropriate settlement support to migrant workers and maintaining required records.

Accreditation is not simply something you obtain in order to hire a migrant. Employers need to continue meeting their obligations while they employ workers through the AEWV scheme.

I have created a simple two-page PDF outlining AEWV employer obligations. If you would like a copy, email me at jo@navigateimmigration.co.nz and I can send one through.

You can also read more in my guide: Accredited Employer Responsibilities Under the AEWV.

Migrants

Can I change employers while I'm on an AEWV?

Yes, but you should not simply start working for a new employer because you have found another job.

AEWVs have conditions relating to your employment, which include your employer, occupation and location.

Depending on your circumstances, you may need to apply for a Job Change or a new visa before starting your new position. It is important to check your existing visa conditions before changing employment.

Can my partner and children come to New Zealand if I have an AEWV?

Possibly.

Whether you can support visas for your partner and dependent children will depend on your circumstances, including your employment and the conditions that apply to your AEWV.

The visas your family members may be eligible for will also depend on your individual circumstances, so it is worth checking this before making plans for your family to move to New Zealand.

Can an AEWV lead to New Zealand residence?

An AEWV itself does not automatically lead to residence.

However, the employment you undertake while holding an AEWV may help you qualify for a residence pathway, depending on your occupation, qualifications, work experience, income and other circumstances.

If your long-term goal is New Zealand residence, it can be worthwhile looking at your potential residence pathways early rather than waiting until your work visa is close to expiring.

Do I need an NZQA assessment for my overseas qualification?

Not everyone with an overseas qualification needs an NZQA assessment.

Whether you need one will depend on your qualification, where you studied and what you need to use the qualification for.

If an assessment is required, I can help determine which NZQA assessment you need and can also submit the NZQA application on your behalf.

You can read more in my guide: Do I Need an NZQA Assessment?

Working With an Immigration Adviser

Do I need an immigration adviser to apply for a New Zealand visa?

No. You can apply for a New Zealand visa yourself.

However, immigration requirements can be complex, and what appears to be a straightforward application can sometimes involve issues that are not immediately obvious.

A Licensed Immigration Adviser can assess your circumstances, explain your options and requirements, and manage the immigration process on your behalf if you would prefer professional assistance.

You can read more in my guide: Do You Really Need a Licensed Immigration Adviser?

Can you help me if I live outside New Zealand?

Yes.

I work with clients both in New Zealand and overseas. Consultations can be held online, making it possible to discuss your circumstances and immigration options wherever you are located.

If you are considering moving to New Zealand, getting advice before making decisions about employment, visas or relocation can help you understand what options are realistically available to you.

Can I meet with an immigration adviser in Tauranga?

Yes.

Navigate Immigration Services is based in the Tauranga area and I can meet with clients locally by appointment.

I work with migrants and employers across Tauranga, Papamoa, Mount Maunganui, Te Puke and the wider Bay of Plenty.

I also work with clients throughout New Zealand and overseas, with online consultations available if meeting in person is not practical.

Need Advice About Your Situation?

Immigration situations are rarely one-size-fits-all. The right visa or immigration strategy will depend on your individual circumstances.

If you would like advice about your New Zealand immigration options, or you are an employer looking for assistance with the AEWV process, get in touch with Navigate Immigration Services to discuss how I can help.