Making the AEWV Job Check Stage Easier
Are you an employer in New Zealand or someone who wants to work there? The Job Check stage of the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) might look tough to handle. Policy changes and closer looks from Immigration New Zealand (INZ) mean it’s now more crucial to know how to make this process smoother. This guide aims to make the Job Check stage less complex for HR teams and people who want to move to New Zealand for work. It will help you move ahead with more sureness and a clearer picture.
What Happens in the AEWV Job Check Stage of the Process?
The Job Check comes second in the three main stages for hiring a migrant worker under the AEWV scheme. It follows employer accreditation and comes before the migrant’s visa application. This step makes sure the job you’re offering:
- Is real and follows employment laws
- Pays what the market demands
- Doesn’t put New Zealand job seekers at a disadvantage
In simple terms, the Job Check protects the local job market while letting employers bring in skilled migrant workers when they need to.
You can learn more about the full AEWV process in Ezy Immigration’s Accredited Employer Work Visa guide.
Why Making the Job Check Easier Counts
Many businesses, especially smaller ones, can face big costs when the Job Check stage has delays or mistakes. Common problems like wrong job ads, unclear work agreements, or not meeting labor market test rules can cause rejections or requests to provide more details.
Making the Job Check easier helps to:
- Cut down waiting times
- Avoid expensive back-and-forth with INZ
- Give job seekers a better experience
- Keep workforce plans on schedule
What's Part of a Job Check?
To pass the Job Check stage, employers need to show:
- Job Details – The job must match INZ rules, including the title, tasks, and skill level based on ANZSCO groups.
- Proof of Real Need for a Migrant– This can be through a Labour Market Test (LMT) or an exception (like Green List jobs).
- Job Advertisement – you need to post jobs for at least 14 days on a nationwide job site. Some roles will also require listing the job with Work & Income New Zealand.
- Work Contract – This should follow NZ work rules about pay, hours, and benefits.
Each part needs to be strong and match up. Any differences can cause big holdups or even failure.
Ways to Make the Job Check Easier
While INZ provides a clear framework even experienced HR professionals can stumble over the details. Here’s how you can make your application easier:
1. Use Standardised Job Descriptions and Contracts
Keep templates in line with ANZSCO codes and make sure your employment agreements match the current Fair Pay Agreements and minimum wage laws. An immigration expert can look over these documents to check they follow the rules.
2. Advertise with Strategy and Accuracy
Make sure the job ad includes all needed details: location, pay, hours, and skill requirements. INZ looks for consistency between your ad and the job offer. Don’t use jargon or misleading job titles.
3. Check if Your Role is on the Green List
Positions on the Green List might not need advertising. This can really speed up the Job Check process. Check out our Green List Visa Guide to see if your job fits the bill.
4. Steer Clear of Common Mistakes
- Using old or wrong templates
- Leaving out must-have ad details
- Not showing real efforts to hire
- Giving fuzzy job descriptions
- These slip-ups often cause Job Check to be turned down.
5. Get Expert Help On
Ezy Immigration’s team of licensed immigration advisers can help you get your Job Check application ready boosting your chances of getting it approved on the first try. Take a look at our Job Check Support Services to find out more.
Key Updates to Keep in Mind for 2025
Immigration New Zealand has tightened its approach to AEWV applications. While not changing the Job Check requirements, they now look more at:
- Evidence from labour market tests
- Whether jobs need workers from overseas
- How well your whole business follows employment laws
Employers must show they tried to hire New Zealanders first. Even for jobs that pay more than the median wage, INZ might ask for extra paperwork to explain why you’re hiring from overseas.
Keep up with our blog about 2025 AEWV Changes as rules change.
How Long Does the Job Check Take?
As of 2025, processing a Job Check takes 10–30 working days on average. This time frame depends on how well the application is filled out and what type of job it’s for. Errors missing papers, or information that doesn’t match up can make this process take much longer.
Should Applicants Get Involved?
The employer submits the Job Check, but the result has a direct impact on the migrant. When a Job Check succeeds, it creates a Job Token. The applicant then uses this token to submit their AEWV application.
Applicants should stay in touch with their employer or agent throughout this process. Knowing your role and staying up-to-date helps to avoid unnecessary hold-ups.
For those applying for visas, check out our full AEWV Application Guide to learn what happens after the Job Check.
Why Work With Ezy Immigration?
Ezy Immigration has helped employers and migrants navigate every phase of the AEWV process. Our team brings more than a decade of expertise in New Zealand and Australian immigration systems. We know how to craft Job Check applications that receive approval.
Our services include:
- Looking over and creating job ads
- Writing employment agreements that follow rules
- Helping with the labour market test
- Sending in Job Checks and answering INZ questions
Get your application off to a good start by reaching out to us now for a chat.
Conclusion
The Job Check stage serves as a key checkpoint in the AEWV process. When done right, it opens doors to international talent for employers and starts the journey for applicants to work and live in New Zealand. With proper guidance and a hands-on approach, you can make this step easier and zero in on what counts—creating a solid capable workforce.
Let Ezy Immigration smooth out the process. Reach out to us today to kick off your Job Check application the right way.
Frequently Asked Questions
In many cases, yes. Green List roles often don’t need advertising, which makes things simpler. Always check if you qualify with a licensed adviser.
You’ll get reasons for the rejection. You can apply again, but you need to fix all problems first. Ezy Immigration can help you resubmit.
A Job Check is good for 6 months or until the job quota is filled, whichever happens first.
Yes, if the jobs are the same and in the same place. If the jobs are different, you need separate Job Checks.
Not in every case. Some jobs (like Green List roles or those that pay 200% of the median wage) might not require LMTs.
