The New Zealand government has introduced the new updates to the second Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) on March 10, 2025, designed for individuals currently working in New Zealand under the first AEWV and wishing to extend their stay. This visa is specifically for those whose first AEWV is nearing expiration and who meet the criteria for reapplication. For those who do not currently hold an AEWV but are interested in working in New Zealand, an application for the first AEWV will be necessary to qualify for future renewals under this program.
Eligibility for Reapplying
You may be eligible for another AEWV if:
- The duration of your current AEWV is shorter than your maximum allowed continuous stay in New Zealand.
- You have held multiple AEWVs but have not exceeded the total permissible stay.
- If you’ve reached the maximum stay limit on your AEWV(s), you must leave New Zealand for at least 12 months before reapplying.
Duration of Stay
The maximum continuous stay on an AEWV ranges from three to five years, based on the ANZSCO skill level of your job and the issuance date of your first AEWV.
Application Process for a New AEWV
To apply for another AEWV, your employer must issue a job token, a unique link sent via email as part of the job check process. Notably:
- If your first AEWV was applied for on or before March 9, 2025, you might reuse your most recent job token.
- For AEWVs applied for on or after March 10, 2025, a new job token is required.
When to Apply?
It’s advisable to apply for your new AEWV as your current one nears expiration. Ensure that any required medical or police certificates are valid at the time of application. Verify that your employer will have a valid job token by then.
Reusing a Job Token: You can reuse a job token if you remain in the same role, with the same employer, at the same location, and are paid at least the same amount. This option is only available if your current AEWV was issued on or before March 9, 2025.
Exceptions: You cannot reuse a job token if:
- Your AEWV was applied for on or after March 10, 2025.
- You were paid less than NZD $29.66 per hour in certain low-wage occupations when you received your AEWV.
Applying with a New Job Token: If reusing a job token is not an option, your employer must secure a new job check and issue a new job token for your application.
Family Members
Your partner and dependent children may also apply for visas corresponding to the duration of your new AEWV, provided they meet the visa requirements and application fees. If this is the first time you are supporting their visa application, you must meet specific pay and skill requirements.
