Is the Accredited Employer Work Visa NZ Renewable

The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) has become a cornerstone of New Zealand's immigration framework, designed to streamline the entry of skilled foreign workers sponsored by accredited employers. One of the most frequent questions posed by both employers and visa holders alike is whether the AEWV is renewable and under what conditions this renewal is possible.

In this comprehensive guide, we explore the renewability of the AEWV, including the eligibility criteria, procedural steps, and key considerations to ensure a seamless transition to a renewed visa or a more permanent status.

Understanding the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)

The AEWV allows skilled foreign nationals to work in New Zealand for an accredited employer. Introduced to replace several earlier visa types, it aims to ensure that only employers meeting specific compliance standards can hire migrant workers.

The initial duration of the AEWV varies depending on the role and wage offered:

• Up to 3 years for jobs paying at or above the median wage

• Up to 2 years for jobs paying below the median wage (limited to capped sectors)

But what happens when that period ends? Can a worker continue in New Zealand?

Can the Accredited Employer Work Visa Be Renewed?

Yes, the AEWV is renewable, but specific conditions must be met. Renewal is not automatic and depends on several factors, including the employer’s continued accreditation, the ongoing need for the role, and the worker’s eligibility.

As of 2024, the maximum continuous stay on an AEWV is 5 years for those earning at or above the median wage. After this, workers must either:

• Apply for residence through pathways like the Skilled Migrant Category, or

• Leave New Zealand for a minimum of 12 consecutive months before reapplying for a new AEWV.

Eligibility Criteria for AEWV Renewal

To successfully renew an AEWV, the following eligibility criteria must be met:

1. Employer Accreditation Must Be Active

Only accredited employers can support AEWV applications. If the employer’s accreditation has expired, been revoked, or not renewed, the worker cannot renew their visa through that employer.

2. Valid Job Check Approval

Each AEWV renewal must be linked to a current job check. If the role has changed or was not part of the previously approved job check, the employer must submit a new job check application.

3. Continued Role and Remuneration Compliance

The role offered must remain genuine, full-time (30+ hours), and meet the wage threshold for the AEWV stream:

• Jobs above the median wage are generally renewable up to the 5-year maximum.

• Jobs below the median wage are subject to additional sector-based limits and may not be eligible for renewal.

4. Health and Character Requirements

As with any visa application, the applicant must still meet health and character standards. Immigration New Zealand may request new medical or police certificates if the previous ones are outdated.

Renewal Timeframes and Application Process

Applicants should begin the renewal process at least 2–3 months before their current AEWV expires. Delays in submitting renewal applications can lead to unintended gaps in lawful stay.

Step-by-Step AEWV Renewal Process

1. Employer Accreditation Check: Confirm that the sponsoring employer remains accredited.

2. Job Check Confirmation: Ensure the role still meets AEWV criteria.

3. Lodge AEWV Application: Submit the online AEWV renewal via Immigration Online with all required documents.

4. Await Decision: Processing times may vary depending on application volumes and complexity.

Bridging visas are generally not available for AEWV applicants, so timely submission is essential.

Important Considerations for AEWV Renewals

Duration Limits Based on Remuneration

• For AEWV holders earning above the median wage, the visa can be renewed for up to 5 years total stay.

• For those below the median wage, stay is generally limited to 2 years, and further renewal is usually not permitted unless sector-specific exemptions apply.

Renewal After the 5-Year Limit

Once an AEWV holder reaches 5 years of cumulative stay, they must:

• Leave New Zealand for 12 months, or

• Apply for a residence visa through the Skilled Migrant, Green List, or Care Workforce pathways.

AEWV holders may also switch to other temporary visa categories if eligible.

Switching Employers or Roles on a Renewed AEWV

If a worker intends to change employers during renewal, a new job check must be completed by the new employer. Immigration New Zealand will assess whether:

• The new role still qualifies under AEWV requirements

• The remuneration meets the wage threshold

• The applicant continues to meet health and character criteria

Without a valid job check, the AEWV cannot be transferred to a different employer.

Related Article: How Can I Find Accredited Employers in New Zealand?

AEWV Renewal vs Residence Pathways

For many AEWV holders nearing the 5-year maximum, transitioning to residence is the ideal solution. Several residence pathways are available depending on the job type and remuneration:

Skilled Migrant Category

Workers with high-skilled roles and qualifications may qualify under the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) if they meet the points threshold.

Green List Pathway

Jobs listed on the Green List Tier 1 or Tier 2 offer fast-tracked residence options, sometimes after just 2 years on an AEWV.

Sector Agreements and Care Workforce Pathways

Certain sectors such as aged care, construction, and meat processing have customized pathways leading to residence with sector-specific timeframes and wage conditions.

Can Dependent Family Members Renew Their Visas Too?

Yes. Partners and dependent children of AEWV holders can apply for renewals in line with the principal applicant. However, the AEWV holder’s eligibility directly impacts their dependents’ ability to extend their stay.

• Partners may be eligible for an open work visa.

• Dependent children can apply for visitor or student visas, depending on age and schooling needs.

The family’s visa duration will not exceed that of the primary AEWV holder.

Recent Policy Updates Affecting AEWV Renewals

New Zealand immigration policies are evolving. As of 2024:

• Median wage updates may affect eligibility thresholds.

• Employers are under increased scrutiny regarding compliance and worker treatment.

• AEWV holders may need to demonstrate continued suitability and employment history.

We recommend closely monitoring Immigration New Zealand's website or consulting a Licensed Immigration Adviser Auckland before applying for renewal.

Conclusion

The Accredited Employer Work Visa is renewable under defined conditions. However, renewal eligibility hinges on employer accreditation, role continuity, remuneration levels, and total length of stay in New Zealand.

To safeguard your status and explore long-term settlement options, we strongly advise:

• Starting the renewal process early

• Considering residence visa pathways

• Ensuring your employer remains compliant and accredited

A strategic approach to visa management ensures not only lawful continuity in New Zealand but opens doors to residency and long-term migration success.