Immigration New Zealand has updated AEWV allocation priorities starting 16 December 2024, focusing on Green List roles, expiring employer accreditations, and other key factors to streamline processing times.
New Zealand AEWV Allocation Priorities: Key Updates and Visa Processing Information
Immigration New Zealand (INZ) continues to focus on improving the efficiency and timeliness of processing Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) applications. Effective 16 December 2024, a new allocation priority system has been introduced to streamline processing. This change ensures that applications are assessed fairly and promptly, particularly in critical sectors like Green List roles.
Key AEWV Allocation Priorities Starting 16 December 2024
As of 16 December 2024, INZ will allocate applications based on the oldest first approach, ensuring fairness as applications reach the under assessment stage. Applicants will be able to track their application status through the immigration online portal, where they will see ‘Under Assessment’ when their application is actively being processed.
Important Application Priorities for AEWV Applicants
While applications will no longer be directed to a dedicated team based on specific categories, certain groups of applications will be prioritized:
- Job Check and Work Visa Applications for Green List Roles
- Applications for roles on New Zealand’s Green List will receive top priority, ensuring that critical sectors are addressed swiftly.
- Applications from Employers with Expiring Accreditation
- If an employer’s accreditation is due to expire in 6 weeks or has already expired, these applications will also be prioritized for assessment.
- Work Visa Extensions for Green List and Skill Level 4-5 Roles
- Work visa extensions for Green List and skill level 4 and 5 roles will be prioritized, particularly where the extension request is for the maximum allowable period.
- Grouped Applications for Large Employers
- Applications from employers with 10 or more workers will be grouped for assessment, improving the efficiency of processing multiple requests at once.
Even if your application is allocated first, this does not guarantee that a decision will be made in that order. Processing times depend on the quality and completeness of the application.
The Importance of Complete Applications for Faster Processing
To ensure a quicker application assessment, complete applications are essential. Submitting all required documents—including police certificates and English language test results—will significantly improve the chances of a timely decision.
If you are applying from overseas, INZ will only request additional information if there is more than one month remaining on the job token validity or employer accreditation.
How to Avoid Delays in AEWV Application Processing
Several factors can delay AEWV processing times. Here are a few essential reminders to ensure a smooth application process:
- Early Extension Requests
- If you need to request an extension for your visa, do so as early as possible. Extensions will only be granted under reasonable and compelling circumstances.
- Respond to Information Requests Promptly
- Ensure you respond to any requests for information or concerns raised by INZ within the specified timeframe to avoid application delays or even potential declines.
- Ensure Valid Employer Accreditation
- Employers must maintain valid accreditation if they have any AEWV applications in progress, plan to employ new workers, or wish to support workers applying for other visas, such as the Work to Residence or Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa.
Stay Updated on AEWV Allocation Priorities and Processing
Immigration New Zealand is committed to improving AEWV visa processing times and ensuring fairness in the allocation process. The new prioritization system will help streamline the application process for Green List roles, employer accreditation expirations, and other critical areas. To avoid delays, applicants are encouraged to submit complete applications and respond quickly to any additional information requests.
For further details on the AEWV visa requirements and processing times, applicants can visit the official AEWV information page and stay informed about updates on the latest statistics and waiting times.
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