Further changes to Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV): What you need to know 

Contents: 

• The change
• Independent applications still possible
• Exemptions and exceptions
• What this means for you
• Key takeaways

As of June 26, 2024, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has introduced further changes to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) scheme, affecting individuals holding AEWVs in certain roles at ANZSCO levels 4 and 5 without a pathway to residency.

We'll break down the key points of the update and what it means for you.

The change: AEWV holders can no longer support partners and dependent children

Individuals holding AEWVs in roles at ANZSCO levels 4 and 5 without a residency pathway can no longer support visa applications for their partners and dependent children. This means that if you're working in a role that doesn't have a clear pathway to residency, you won't be able to sponsor your family members' visa applications.

Independent applications still possible

While AEWV holders in certain roles can no longer support their family members' visa applications, partners and dependent children can still apply for visas independently if they meet the requirements. This means that if your family members have skills or qualifications that meet the visa requirements, they can still apply for a visa to join you in New Zealand.

Exemptions and exceptions

The new rule doesn't impact existing visa holders as partners or dependent children, or AEWV holders in roles with a residency pathway or meeting specific wage thresholds. Additionally, specific exemptions are in place for certain AEWV holders, such as those on the Green List or with sector agreements offering residence pathways.

What this means for you

If you're an AEWV holder in a role at ANZSCO levels 4 and 5 without a residency pathway, you'll need to consider alternative options for bringing your family members to New Zealand. This might include exploring independent visa applications or looking into other visa options that don't require sponsorship.

Key takeaways

• AEWV holders in roles at ANZSCO levels 4 and 5 without a residency pathway can no longer support visa applications for partners and dependent children.
• Partners and dependent children can still apply for visas independently if they meet the requirements.
• The changes align with broader changes made earlier in the year and are similar to settings under the previous Essential Skills Work Visa.
• Existing visa holders, AEWV holders in roles with a residency pathway, and those meeting specific wage thresholds are exempt from the changes.