Can I Change Employment After Securing an AEWV?

Are you currently holding an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) in New Zealand and contemplating a change in your employment? If so, understanding what your options are is important before you make them move. In this article, we will explain what your options are and how you can ensure you are compliant with the terms of your visa. From employer accreditation and job checks to wage exemptions and visa renewals, we'll provide you with the essential information you need to know.

What Happens When Better Job Opportunities Arise?

The AEWV offers foreign workers the opportunity to live and work in New Zealand for a period of up to three years, but what happens if you find a better job opportunity or wish to explore a different career path? Are you allowed to switch employers, change job positions, or even relocate within the country? These questions often arise, and understanding your options is crucial to making informed decisions about your career and future in New Zealand.

Whether you're seeking greater opportunities, a change in location, or a different working environment you will likely need to apply for a Variation of Conditions.

What is a Variation of Conditions (VOC)?

A VOC is an Immigration NZ form that you are required to fill in to alter your working conditions or your job (i.e. altering your employer, job position, location, or a combination of these factors)

What Do I Need to Supply With a Job Change Application?

Before you start your application you will need to ensure you have the following:

• A Job Offer & Employment Agreement including Job Description
• A cover letter detailing how long your notice period is (if applicable)
• Your Job Check Approval Number
• Qualification evidence if you are changing occupation/role

What is the Acceptance Criteria for your Job Change?

• Your employer must be accredited
• The role you are applying for must have a valid Job Check application
• Your wage must meet the minimum wage requirements unless it meets the exemption criteria.

To be eligible for the Job Change, your new employer must be authorised to hire migrants under the AEWV (Accredited Employer Work Visa) scheme and possess a valid job check for the position you are applying for. This job check approval number will be included in your application.

You will then be issued a Job Check token that should align with the parameters of your new employment. For instance, if you intend to change both the employer and location conditions on their AEWV, you need to acquire a Job Check token that corresponds to the new employer, the same role, and the desired new location.

If you intend to switch to a job with a salary below the median wage, it must meet the exemption criteria set out by the Government. If your current visa permits you to stay longer than the exemption period you will need to apply for a new visa which reflects these dates.

What Happens if You Want to Change Role or Occupations

In the case you are changing the role or occupation condition on an AEWV, you must provide supporting evidence to prove you meet the suitable qualification requirements outlined in the Employer's Job Check application. This evidence is essential to ensure that the individual is qualified to fulfil the specific role or occupation as specified in the Job Check application.

How Much Does A Job Change Cost?

Currently, there is a fee of $210 to apply for a job change, this can be paid through the Immigration New Zealand website.

If You Need Advice On Work Visas & Residency Applications

If you need advice on your next steps talk to a licensed immigration adviser who can help you navigate the immigration process. With the help of a licensed immigration adviser in New Zealand, you should be able to obtain your desired work visa with no problem, so long as you meet all of the accredited employer work visa requirements.

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Get in contact with our immigration advisers today.

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