The Job Check is the second stage of New Zealand's work visa system for accredited employers. Before a migrant can apply for an AEWV, the specific role must be approved through Job Check, confirming genuine skills shortage and appropriate employment conditions.
This guide covers everything employers need to know about the Job Check process.
What is a Job Check?
A Job Check is an Immigration New Zealand assessment verifying that:
- The role is genuine and sustainable
- Appropriate efforts were made to recruit New Zealanders
- Pay and conditions meet requirements
- The position genuinely needs to be filled by a migrant
Each role you want to fill with a migrant worker requires a separate Job Check application.
Prerequisites for Job Check
Before applying for a Job Check, you must have:
1. Valid Employer Accreditation
Your accreditation must be:
- Currently valid (not expired)
- Appropriate type for your hiring volume
- Not suspended or revoked
2. Completed Advertising
You must demonstrate genuine recruitment efforts (covered in detail below).
3. Role Details Prepared
Know the specific details of the role you're advertising.
Advertising Requirements
Demonstrating genuine attempts to hire locally is critical to Job Check approval.
Where to Advertise
Advertise on platforms where suitable New Zealand candidates would look:
General Platforms
- Trade Me Jobs
- Seek
- Indeed
Industry-Specific
- Professional association job boards
- Industry publications
- Trade-specific websites
Government
- Work and Income job matching (some roles)
Advertising Duration
Typically, advertising should:
- Run for at least 14 consecutive days
- Be recent (within reasonable timeframe of Job Check)
- Be genuinely aimed at finding New Zealand candidates
Advertising Content
Your advertisement must include:
- Clear job title and description
- Required skills, qualifications, and experience
- Location of work
- Pay rate (meeting requirements - see below)
- Hours and employment terms
- How to apply
What You Need to Prove
Document your recruitment efforts showing:
- Screenshots of advertisements with dates visible
- Platform confirmation of listing
- Number of applications received
- Screening applied to applications
- Reasons why local applicants weren't suitable
Pay Requirements
Median Wage Threshold
Most roles must pay at or above the median wage, currently NZ$31.61 per hour (review annually).
This equates to approximately:
- $60,000+ per year (40 hours/week)
- $1,264+ per week
Exemptions from Median Wage
Some roles can pay below median wage:
Green List Occupations Roles on the Green List (skills shortage list) may be approved at lower wages in some circumstances.
Sector Agreements Some industries have specific sector agreements with different wage thresholds:
- Aged care
- Construction (some roles)
- Other sectors with approved agreements
Specific Circumstances Limited situations where below-median wages may be considered.
Proving Pay
Provide evidence of:
- Offered wage (must match Job Check)
- Method of payment
- Additional benefits (if relevant)
- Comparison to market rates
Information Required for Job Check
About the Role
- Job title
- ANZSCO occupation code
- Detailed job description
- Duties and responsibilities
- Required qualifications
- Required experience
- Location of work
- Full-time/part-time hours
- Employment type (permanent/fixed-term)
About Pay and Conditions
- Hourly rate (or salary)
- Benefits and allowances
- Working hours
- Leave entitlements
- Employment agreement terms
About Recruitment Efforts
- Where advertised
- Advertising dates
- Applications received
- Why local candidates not suitable
Application Process
Step 1: Prepare Documentation
Before starting:
- Confirm accreditation is current
- Gather advertising evidence
- Prepare role details
- Calculate pay against thresholds
Step 2: Apply Online
Submit via Immigration NZ's employer portal:
- Log in with accreditation credentials
- Complete Job Check application form
- Upload advertising evidence
- Describe recruitment efforts
- Pay fee ($610)
Step 3: Assessment
Immigration NZ reviews:
- Advertising adequacy
- Pay compliance
- Role genuineness
- Business sustainability
Step 4: Decision
You'll receive either:
- Approval: Job Token issued
- Request for information: Provide additional evidence
- Decline: Reasons provided
Processing Time
Typical processing: 10-15 working days
Complex cases or incomplete applications take longer.
Job Token
What It Is
Upon approval, you receive a Job Token—a unique alphanumeric code linking your approved role to migrant visa applications.
How It's Used
The migrant worker uses the Job Token when applying for their AEWV. It confirms the role is approved and links to your employer accreditation.
Validity
Job Tokens are valid for 6 months from issue date. The migrant must submit their visa application before expiry.
Multiple Positions
If hiring multiple workers for identical roles, specify the number in your Job Check. You may receive multiple tokens or one token for multiple positions.
Common Reasons for Decline
Inadequate Advertising
- Too short duration
- Wrong platforms
- Missing essential information
- No evidence of local candidate consideration
Pay Below Threshold
- Hourly rate under median wage
- No valid exemption applies
- Benefits don't count toward wage threshold
Role Concerns
- Role appears not genuine
- Business viability questions
- Duplicates existing workforce
- Description doesn't match reality
Documentation Issues
- Missing evidence
- Unclear screenshots
- Contradictory information
Reapplying After Decline
If declined, you can:
- Address the issues raised
- Provide additional evidence
- Reapply (new fee applies)
- Seek professional assistance for complex cases
Tips for Success
1. Advertise Broadly
More platforms = stronger evidence of genuine recruitment effort.
2. Document Everything
Screenshot advertisements with dates, save confirmation emails, record all applications received.
3. Be Genuine
Actually try to recruit locally. Interview suitable New Zealand applicants.
4. Meet Pay Thresholds
Ensure offered pay clearly meets or exceeds median wage (or valid exemption applies).
5. Prepare Responses
Be ready to explain why local candidates weren't suitable with specific, documented reasons.
Costs
| Fee Type | Cost (NZD) |
|---|---|
| Job Check Application | $610 |
| Advertising Costs | Variable (platform fees) |
Job Check fees are non-refundable even if declined.
Need help with your Job Check application? Find a licensed immigration adviser who can guide you through the process and help ensure approval.