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

To swiftly address labor shortages in critical sectors, the New Zealand Government is introducing short-term adjustments to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) skills requirements. These changes, effective from 8 September 2024, are designed to support industries facing immediate workforce challenges while long-term AEWV policies are under review.

Sectors and Roles Eligible for Exemptions

Meat and Seafood Processing

  • New visa applicants offered roles under the 2024/25 cap within the meat processing or seafood processing sector agreement.

Tourism and Hospitality

  • Existing visa holders in roles exempt from the February 2023 median wage requirement, provided:
    • Their visa expires on or before 31 March 2025.
    • They are applying for a further 1-year AEWV.
    • They are applying for the same occupation.

Care Workforce

  • Existing visa holders in roles included in the care workforce sector agreement, provided:
    • Their visa was granted between 4 July 2022 and 23 November 2023.
    • They earn at least NZD $26.16 per hour.
    • They are applying for a further 1-year AEWV.
    • They are applying for the same occupation.

Key Points to Note

These changes solely exempt applicants from the minimum skill requirements introduced in April 2024. All other requirements, including those specified by employers in the Job Check application, remain applicable.

This short-term measure is part of an ongoing review to ensure the AEWV program is aligned with New Zealand’s evolving workforce needs. Targeted consultations on potential long-term improvements to the AEWV will continue throughout the year.

For more information on sector agreements and hiring migrants on an AEWV, contact VisaSector today. Stay informed on how these updates could impact your industry or visa status.

For further details or to check your eligibility, please reach out to VisaSector or visit our website.