Work and Income engagement is being closely checked

Immigration New Zealand is reminding employers that engagement with Work and Income must be genuine, following post-decision checks that found around 15 percent of employers had not engaged as declared in their job check applications.

Under the Accredited Employer Work Visa system, employers must show that New Zealanders have been genuinely considered for roles before migrant workers are hired.

What employers need to know

Engagement with Work and Income is required when a role is classified at ANZSCO skill level 4 or 5, unless the employer is applying for a Peak Seasonal Visa job check and already holds a Peak Seasonal Visa endorsement.

For roles where engagement is required, employers must:

• notify Work and Income of the vacancy using their prescribed form
• respond to any contact within three days
• ensure job requirements are genuine and consistent across all advertising
• allow time for candidates to be referred and properly considered

Job check applications must be submitted within 90 days of completing this engagement, and employers must declare that the process was carried out in good faith. Immigration New Zealand verifies this with Work and Income as part of post-decision checks.

Why accuracy matters

Where employers have not followed the required process, consequences can include declined job checks, hiring delays, or suspension or loss of employer accreditation. This responsibility sits with the employer and cannot be delegated to an adviser.

Employers can find further detail on engagement requirements on the Immigration New Zealand website or seek guidance from our team to confirm what applies to their situation.