New Zealand will significantly change its immigration policy concerning the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV). The government plans to remove the franchisee accreditation category, a distinct segment of New Zealand’s immigration framework. Let’s delve into the implications of this policy update and what it means for businesses and franchisee employers.
End of the Road for Franchisee Accreditation
As of 16 June 2024, the franchisee accreditation category under the AEWV will cease to exist. This move follows announcements made by the Minister of Immigration in April, reinforcing that there’s insufficient evidence to claim that franchisee employers are more inclined towards non-compliance that necessitates separate accreditation criteria.
Implications for Franchisee Employers
Franchisee employers must take note; post-16 June 2024, they will no longer seek specific franchisee accreditation. Instead, depending on their business model and size, they can pursue either standard, high-volume, or third-party employment accreditation. For those in the franchise business, this amendment in New Zealand’s immigration policy signifies an equal footing with other industries—potentially reducing administrative burdens and associated costs levileged by compliance to special requirements.
New Zealand Immigration Policy Adjustments
The turning point here is not just about aligning franchisees with other sector players but also about simplifying processes while maintaining robust immigration checks. New Zealand has always prided itself on a fair but firm immigration stance, seeking to balance employer demands with migrant protection.
Franchisee Employers: Next Steps and Considerations
Current holders of franchisee accreditation need not rush decisions as there’s no immediate action required until after mid-June 2024. Post-disestablishment, concerned parties should review their options among other forms of accreditation per New Zealand immigration policy guidelines—which might provide versatile pathways tuned to their operational scope and size.
For now, maintaining apace with any legislative updates or pointers from Immigration New Zealand is good practice for businesses operating within these confines. However, those seeking renewal should act timely; ensuring applications are lodged ahead of their current accreditation’s expiry date to avoid any lapse in status—wherein interim measures may come into effect.
Embracing Change Responsively
The road ahead calls for a recalibration in strategy among franchisee employers in relation to New Zealand’s immigration policy changes. While anticipation builds leading up to June 2024 when the existing franchisee accreditation category becomes history, it is an opportune moment for businesses to reassess their standing and prepare for a smooth transition into new regulatory landscapes.
