New Zealand’s Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) process is designed to ensure that employers can hire skilled migrant workers while prioritizing local talent. As of October 2024, there are 29,033 accredited employers, and since the scheme started, 128,380 AEWV applications have been approved. One crucial component of this process is the Job Check token. Here’s a comprehensive guide to understanding the Job Check token, its complexities, and the steps involved for both employers and employees.
What is a Job Check Token?
A Job Check token is a unique identifier issued by Immigration New Zealand (INZ) that allows employers to hire migrant workers for specific roles. This token is part of the AEWV process and ensures that the job offered meets the necessary criteria and that there are no suitable New Zealanders available for the role.
Why is the Process Like This?
The Job Check process is designed to:
- Prioritize Local Talent: Ensure that New Zealanders have the first opportunity to apply for jobs.
- Maintain Fair Employment Practices: Verify that job offers to migrants meet New Zealand employment standards, including fair wages and working conditions.
- Streamline Hiring: Provide a clear and structured pathway for employers to hire migrant workers when local talent is not available.
Employer and Employee Checklists
For Employers:
Accreditation: Ensure you are accredited to hire migrant workers under the AEWV scheme.
- Job Advertisement: Advertise the job for at least 2 weeks unless the role is exempt.
- Engage with Work and Income: For certain roles, engage with Work and Income to check for suitable local candidates.
- Job Check Application: Submit a Job Check application with details about the job, including salary and employment conditions.
- Receive Job Token: Once approved, receive the Job Check token to provide to the migrant worker.
For Employees:
- Qualification Verification: Ensure you meet the qualifications and experience required for the job.
- Visa Application: Use the Job Check token provided by your employer to apply for the AEWV.
- Documentation: Prepare necessary documents, including proof of qualifications, work experience, and any other required information.
How the Job Check is Done
- Preparation: Employers gather information about the job and ensure it meets the AEWV criteria.
- Advertising: The job must be advertised to ensure no suitable New Zealanders are available.
- Application Submission: Employers submit the Job Check application online, including all required documentation.
- Approval and Token Issuance: If the application is approved, INZ issues a Job Check token, which the employer can then provide to the migrant worker.
Addressing the Process and Deadlines
- Timelines: Job Check applications typically take around 10 working days to process. However, this can vary based on the completeness of the application and any additional information required.
- Validity: Job Check tokens are valid for 6 months or until the employer’s accreditation expires.
- Renewals: Employers must ensure their accreditation is up-to-date and may need to reapply for a Job Check if the role or conditions change.
Complexities and Considerations
- Compliance: Employers must comply with all INZ requirements, including fair wage rates and employment conditions.
- Documentation: Detailed and accurate documentation is crucial for a smooth application process.
- Engagement with Work and Income: For certain roles, engaging with Work and Income can add complexity but is necessary to prioritize local talent.
How Long Does the Process Take?
The time it takes to complete the Job Check token process can vary. Here’s a breakdown of the typical timelines:
- Employer Accreditation: This step can take around 11 weeks.
- Job Check Application: The processing time for a Job Check application is generally around 10 working days, but it can take up to 9 weeks in some cases.
- Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV): Once the Job Check is approved and the token is issued, the AEWV application process can take approximately 4 months.
These timelines can be influenced by the completeness of the application and any additional information required by Immigration New Zealand. It’s important for both employers and employees to ensure all necessary documentation is provided to avoid delays.
Required Documents
For Employer Accreditation:
- Proof of business registration (e.g., New Zealand Business Number (NZBN))
- Business IRD number
- Financial documents to prove business viability (e.g., profit and loss statements, cash flow statements)
- Details of key personnel (e.g., names, passport numbers, dates of birth)
- Evidence of compliance with New Zealand employment laws.
For Job Check Application:
- Job description
- Draft employment agreement
- Evidence of job advertisement (if required)
- Work and Income Engagement Check (if required for certain roles).
For Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV):
- Valid passport
- Passport-sized photo
- Police certificate
- Job offer from an accredited employer
- Evidence of meeting job requirements (e.g., qualifications, work experience)
- Occupational registration (if required for the role)
By understanding and following these steps, both employers and employees can navigate the Job Check token process more effectively, ensuring compliance with New Zealand’s immigration policies and supporting a fair and transparent hiring process.
For comprehensive guidance on employer accreditation, job checks, accreditation renewals, and navigating the immigration process, Contact New Zealand will assist you effectively.
Source: https://www.immigration.govt.nz/
