Job Check NZ: New Requirements for Hiring Migrant Workers

JOB CHECK NZ: New application process

The new application process for the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) in New Zealand includes several job checks.

This includes providing a detailed job description outlining the role’s responsibilities, skills, and experience required. Employers should also demonstrate their commitment to fair employment practices by offering an acceptable job offer that complies with employment law and provides a pay period and minimum qualifications that align with industry standards. The proposed employment agreement should clearly outline the terms and conditions of employment, including the minimum and maximum remuneration. Additionally, employers must advertise the job on a national job listing website to attract potential New Zealand candidates. By following these guidelines and fulfilling the necessary job checks, employers can successfully hire migrant workers and contribute to the growth and development of their businesses.

Here are the 3 main steps in this process:

• apply for accreditation under the new system
• apply for a job check to make sure the role they want to fill cannot be done by suitable New Zealander workers, and
• request a migrant worker to apply for a visa.

The migrant will need to meet the skills and experience stipulated as part of the New Zealand job check.

New system has 3 checks

The system will introduce 3 checks before a New Zealand employer can hire a migrant worker. These checks are:

• the New Zealand employer check — employers need accreditation to pass this
• the job check
• the worker check.

Job check NZ

For Job Check NZ, INZ will mainly check that:

• the employer holds accreditation and continues to meet the requirement of accreditation.
• the employment is acceptable (the job pays the market rate, at least 30 hours per week, the terms and conditions comply with employment laws)
• there are no suitable New Zealand citizens or residents available to do the work specified.

Labour market test

A labour market test shows you have genuinely advertised the role to New Zealanders and there are no New Zealanders available to do the job. For jobs paying below the New Zealand median wage, the market test includes checking with the NZ Ministry of Social Development.

Jobs that pay 200 % of the median wage do not need the test. Job that pay at, or above, the median wage in NZ regions also do not need it. In cities, jobs that are on a skills shortage list and pay at, or above, the New Zealand median wage don’t need the test.

You can only hire migrant workers if the job check is passed. New Zealand employers pay for a job check.

Details of the advertising requirements and other elements of the test will be announced by INZ soon.