Hiring overseas workers can solve genuine skills shortages in your business, but New Zealand's immigration system requires employers to meet specific obligations before and during migrant employment. This guide walks employers through the entire process—from becoming accredited to maintaining compliance.
Understanding the Employer's Role
Since the 2022 AEWV reforms, employers play a central role in work visa applications. The system places responsibility on employers to:
- Demonstrate good workplace practices
- Try to hire New Zealanders first
- Provide fair pay and conditions
- Support migrant workers appropriately
This employer-centric approach means getting your obligations right is essential before hiring any migrant worker.
Step 1: Become an Accredited Employer
Before you can hire any migrant on an AEWV, you must obtain employer accreditation.
Types of Accreditation
Standard Accreditation
- For businesses hiring up to 5 migrant workers
- $740 fee
- 12-month initial term (24-month renewal)
High-Volume Accreditation
- For businesses hiring 6+ migrant workers
- $1,980 fee
- Additional HR and settlement requirements
- 24-month term
Application Process
Prepare documentation:
- NZBN and IRD details
- Business operation evidence
- Employment policies
- Health and safety documentation
Apply online through Immigration NZ
Await assessment (typically 10-15 working days)
Receive accreditation certificate
Maintaining Accreditation
Accreditation carries ongoing obligations:
- Comply with employment law
- Maintain workplace standards
- Report significant changes
- Keep employment records
- Renew before expiry
Step 2: Advertise the Role
Before applying for a Job Check, you must demonstrate genuine attempts to recruit New Zealanders.
Advertising Requirements
Where to Advertise
- Trade Me Jobs, Seek, or equivalent platforms
- Industry-specific sites where appropriate
- Work and Income (some cases)
What to Include
- Clear job description
- Required skills and qualifications
- Location
- Pay rate (must meet requirements)
- Employment terms
Duration
- Typically 14+ days continuous advertising
- Longer for some roles/situations
Documenting Recruitment Efforts
Keep records of:
- Where and when advertised
- Number of applications received
- Why local applicants weren't suitable
- Screening and interview processes
Step 3: Apply for Job Check
Once you've completed recruitment efforts, apply for Job Check approval for the specific role.
Job Check Requirements
Role Information
- Job title and description
- ANZSCO code
- Location
- Hours and employment terms
- Pay rate
Advertising Evidence
- Screenshots of advertisements
- Platform confirmation
- Application summary
Pay Requirements
- Must meet or exceed median wage (NZ$31.61/hour), OR
- Role is on Green List, OR
- Covered by sector agreement
Processing
Job Check applications typically process in 10-15 working days. Upon approval, you receive a Job Token valid for 6 months.
Job Token Usage
The Job Token is used by your chosen migrant worker when applying for their AEWV. It links their application to your approved role.
Step 4: Select Your Candidate
With Job Check approved, you can make an offer to your preferred migrant candidate.
Making the Offer
Provide a formal employment offer including:
- Position details matching Job Check
- Pay rate as approved
- Hours and conditions
- Start date (contingent on visa)
- Job Token number
Candidate Visa Application
The candidate applies for their AEWV using:
- Your Job Token
- Their personal documentation
- Health and character evidence
- Qualifications/experience proof
Processing takes 6-12 weeks typically.
Step 5: Onboard and Support
Once the visa is approved, prepare for your new employee's arrival and integration.
Settlement Support
Accredited employers should provide:
- Information about the local area
- Practical assistance with housing information
- Workplace orientation
- Connection to community resources
High-volume accredited employers have formal settlement support obligations.
Employment Verification
On first day, verify:
- Visa conditions match employment
- Passport and visa documentation
- Tax and employment paperwork
Ongoing Compliance
Employment Obligations
Migrant workers have the same employment rights as New Zealanders:
- Minimum wage and entitlements
- Leave provisions
- Health and safety protections
- Employment relationship problem processes
Record Keeping
Maintain records of:
- Employment agreements
- Pay records
- Hours worked
- Visa details and expiry dates
Keep records for 7 years.
Visa Monitoring
Track employee visa expiry dates:
- Provide advance notice to employees
- Support renewal applications
- Ensure continuous work rights
Change Notification
Notify Immigration NZ of significant changes:
- Employee role changes
- Termination of employment
- Business ownership changes
- Major restructuring
Common Employer Mistakes
1. Advertising After Job Offer
Advertising must happen before selecting a candidate. Retrospective advertising raises red flags.
2. Below-Median Wages
Roles paying below median wage face extra scrutiny. Ensure pay meets thresholds or role qualifies for exemptions.
3. Poor Documentation
Keep comprehensive records of:
- Recruitment efforts
- Why local candidates weren't suitable
- Employment arrangements
4. Ignoring Visa Conditions
Ensure employees only work within their visa conditions:
- Correct role
- Correct employer
- Correct location
5. Late Renewals
Both accreditation and employee visas have expiry dates. Track these carefully.
Costs Summary for Employers
| Item | Cost (NZD) |
|---|---|
| Standard Accreditation | $740 |
| High-Volume Accreditation | $1,980 |
| Job Check (per role) | $610 |
| Minimum employer cost | ~$1,350 |
Employee costs (visa fee, medical, police) are typically migrant responsibility, though some employers assist.
Benefits of Hiring Migrants
Done properly, migrant hiring offers:
- Fill skills gaps: Access talent not available locally
- Diverse perspectives: Bring new ideas and approaches
- Committed workforce: Migrants often highly motivated
- Long-term talent: Pathway to residence creates loyalty
- Business growth: Enable expansion when local labor limited
Getting Help
Many employers work with immigration advisers for:
- Accreditation applications
- Job Check management
- Compliance monitoring
- Multiple employee programs
Ready to hire migrant workers? Find a licensed immigration adviser who specializes in employer services and can guide your accreditation and hiring process.