Employer Accreditation for the AEWV

Under New Zealand's immigration system, employers must be accredited by Immigration New Zealand before they can hire migrant workers on an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV). Sunrise Immigration Services provides comprehensive support to New Zealand businesses seeking accreditation.

What is Employer Accreditation?

Employer accreditation is the first step in the Accredited Employer Work Visa process. It verifies that your business meets specific standards and requirements to employ migrant workers.

Types of Accreditation

Standard Accreditation

For New Zealand businesses hiring up to 5 migrants on Accredited Employer Work Visas at any one time.

  • Suitable for small to medium-sized businesses
  • Valid for 12 months initially, then can be renewed for 24 months
  • Must meet basic accreditation requirements

High-Volume Accreditation

For New Zealand businesses hiring 6 or more migrants on Accredited Employer Work Visas at any one time.

  • Suitable for larger businesses with ongoing migrant hiring needs
  • Valid for 12 months initially, then can be renewed for 24 months
  • Must meet additional requirements beyond standard accreditation

Triangular Employer Accreditation

For New Zealand businesses who place migrants with controlling third parties while being the direct employer named in the employment agreement.

  • Suitable for labor hire companies, contractors, and recruitment agencies
  • No limit to how many migrants you can hire
  • Must meet specific requirements related to triangular employment arrangements

Accreditation Requirements

To become accredited, employers must:

  • Be a genuinely operating business
  • Have a New Zealand Business Number (NZBN)
  • Have no history of immigration-related non-compliance
  • Have no history of labor or employment law non-compliance
  • Take steps to minimize the risk of exploitation
  • Meet financial requirements to demonstrate business viability
  • Meet specific additional requirements for high-volume or triangular accreditation

How Sunrise Immigration Services Can Help

Navigating the employer accreditation process can be complex. Our experienced team can assist New Zealand employers with:

  • Determining which type of accreditation is right for your business
  • Preparing and submitting your accreditation application
  • Ensuring your business meets all requirements
  • Advising on necessary documentation and evidence
  • Helping develop compliant employment practices and policies
  • Assisting with accreditation renewals
  • Providing guidance on changing accreditation types if your hiring needs change
  • Keeping you updated on changes to immigration policies and requirements

Information sourced from: Immigration New Zealand - Employer Accreditation and Work Visa

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