IMMIGRATION LAW CHANGES
Changes To Employer Accreditation
T
What New Zealand Employers Need To Know
he new employer accreditation regime is looking to come into effect in late September 2021, with it being compulsory from 1 November 2021. There are also changes coming with the introduction of the new Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV). The new AEWV will replace the following visas: • Talent (Accredited Employer) Work Visa • Essential Skills Work Visa • Essential Skills Work Visa – Approved in Principle • Long Term Skill Shortage List (LTSSL) Work Visa • Silver Fern Job Search Visa • Silver Fern Practical Experience Visa This means there will be fewer options for migrant workers trying to work or get residency in New Zealand. Until 31 October 2021, employers will still be able to support work visa applications under the Essential Skills, or Talent (Accredited Employer), or Long Term Skill Shortage List work visa categories. The new AEWV will involve three steps: 1. Employer Check (Accreditation): All employers will need to be 14 JULY 2021 - HOSPITALITY BUSINESS
accredited. Applications for character and identity requirements accreditation can be lodged from and hold the skills and experience late September 2021. Those stipulated as part of the employer’s employers who hold existing job check application. “Employers accreditation status with who are likely Immigration New Zealand Will your business to require migrant will have to apply under be affected? the new system. The new regime will workers from 1 November There will be three place pressure on 2021 are encouraged to accreditation levels: employers, particularly get prepared ahead of time, • Standard – for those who have never so that they are ready to employers wanting been accredited or are submit their accreditation to hire 5 or fewer not used to dealing migrant workers on with the complexities of application by AEWVs during the Immigration New Zealand. September accreditation period; Compliance obligations 2021.” • High-Volume – for on employers will also increase, employers wanting to hire 6 so it’s critical for businesses to or more migrant workers on plan ahead and get advice from AEWVs during the accreditation immigration practitioners. period; and Employers who are likely to require • Franchise/Labour Hire – for migrant workers from 1 November businesses supplying staff to third2021 are encouraged to get prepared party places of employment. ahead of time, so that they are ready to 2. Job Check: Checks will be submit their accreditation application completed to confirm the terms by September 2021. and conditions of the offer If you would like to discuss the of employment comply with upcoming changes in greater detail and employment laws and the labour how they impact your business and market test (where relevant) has employees, please do not hesitate to been met. contact Elly Fleming, Senior Solicitor 3. Migrant Worker Check: Migrants on 03 548 8349 or Elly.Fleming@ must show they meet health, pittandmoore.co.nz n
