We announce important modifications to the regulations governing interim visa in New Zealand, specifically concerning work rights for individuals awaiting decisions on their Accredited Employer Work Visa NZ (AEWV) applications. These adjustments, effective from 8 April 2025, are designed to provide greater certainty and facilitate smoother transitions for eligible applicants.
Enhanced Work Rights on Interim Visas for AEWV Applicants
Commencing 8 April 2025, a significant enhancement comes into effect regarding interim visas. Individuals who apply for an Accredited Employer Work Visa NZ (AEWV) will automatically be granted interim visa work rights under specific conditions. This provision applies if the AEWV application is submitted while the applicant holds either:
- Any type of existing work visa: This broad category encompasses various work visas previously held by the applicant.
- A student visa that explicitly permits work during term time: Applicants holding such student visas and transitioning to an AEWV will also benefit.
This policy change streamlines the process for applicants moving towards employment with Accredited Employers.
Key Advantages of the Revised Interim Visa Work Rights
The introduction of work rights on interim visas under these circumstances presents several key advantages for AEWV applicants:
1. Accelerated Commencement in AEWV Role
A primary benefit is the ability for applicants to commence employment in the specific role outlined in their new Accredited Employer Work Visa NZ (AEWV) application more rapidly. Once the interim visa with work rights is granted, the applicant is permitted to begin working in the job associated with their Accredited Employer’s approved Job Check, even before the full AEWV application is decided. This facilitates a quicker integration into the workforce and allows employers to onboard necessary staff sooner.
Read more: New AEWV Changes Are Here: Insights and FAQs You Can’t Miss!
2. Contribution Towards Work Experience for Residence Pathways
Crucially, the time an applicant spends in New Zealand on an interim visa with these newly granted work rights will now be recognized as relevant work experience. This experience can count towards meeting the requirements for various work-to-residence pathways available under New Zealand’s immigration framework. This ensures that the waiting period for the AEWV decision does not disadvantage applicants aiming for longer-term residence.
3. Inclusion in Maximum Continuous Stay Calculation for Subsequent AEWVs
For individuals applying for their second or subsequent Accredited Employer Work Visa NZ(AEWV), the duration spent on an interim visa (granted under these new conditions with work rights) will contribute towards the calculation of their maximum continuous stay period permitted on an AEWV. This is a vital consideration for maintaining lawful status and planning long-term stay. It is important to note, however, that any time spent on an interim visa granted before the applicant received their first AEWV is explicitly excluded from this maximum continuous stay calculation.
Implications for Stakeholders
These changes provide significant benefits for both visa applicants and Accredited Employers. Applicants gain the ability to work sooner in their intended role and ensure the interim period contributes positively towards potential residence goals and maximum stay durations. Employers benefit from reduced waiting times to fill positions linked to approved Job Checks, enhancing operational continuity.
We confirm these adjustments to interim visa conditions, granting work rights to eligible Accredited Employer Work Visa NZ(AEWV) applicants holding qualifying prior visas, take effect on 8 April 2025. We advise applicants and employers to familiarise themselves with these updated immigration rules and processes.
How Immigration Chambers Can Assist
At Immigration Chambers, we guide your future. Whether you’re applying for an Interim Visa or navigating the AEWV process, our expert advisors ensure accuracy, compliance, and peace of mind. From job offer validation to work-to-residence pathways, we tailor every application to your goals. Let our Immigration Lawyer in New Zealand handle the process while you focus on your journey ahead.