Employer accreditation expires and must be renewed to continue sponsoring migrant workers. Understanding the renewal process helps you maintain continuous accreditation and avoid gaps that affect your workforce.
Why Renewal Matters
Accreditation Expires
Time-Limited: Accreditation has specified validity period.
Not Automatic: Will not automatically renew.
Must Apply: Active renewal application required.
Gaps Problematic: Gaps affect ability to employ migrants.
Consequences of Lapse
Cannot Hire: Cannot sponsor new AEWV applications.
Existing Workers: May affect current migrant employees.
Business Impact: Workforce planning affected.
Reinstatement: May need to reapply from scratch.
When to Renew
Validity Periods
Standard Accreditation: Valid for 2 years.
High-Volume (Initial): Valid for 1 year initially.
High-Volume (Subsequent): May get longer renewal periods.
Triangular: Typically 1 year.
Timing Your Renewal
Before Expiry: Apply well before accreditation expires.
Processing Time: Allow for processing time.
Minimum 3 Months: Start at least 3 months before expiry.
Earlier Better: More time gives margin for issues.
Setting Reminders
Calendar Alerts: Set multiple reminders.
Expiry Date: Know exact expiry date.
Application Date: Set reminder for when to apply.
Follow-Up: Track renewal progress.
Renewal Requirements
Continued Eligibility
Same Requirements: Must still meet accreditation requirements.
Business Viability: Still viable, operating business.
Compliance Record: Good compliance during accreditation period.
No Serious Issues: No serious breaches.
What's Assessed
Conduct as Employer: How you've performed as accredited employer.
Wage Compliance: Have you paid correct wages?
Condition Compliance: Met employment conditions?
Immigration Compliance: Complied with immigration obligations?
Worker Treatment: Treated migrant workers fairly?
Documentation
Updated Information: Current business information.
Compliance Evidence: Evidence of ongoing compliance.
HR Systems (if High-Volume): Updated HR documentation.
Changes Noted: Any significant changes explained.
Renewal Process
Assess Readiness
Review Record: Check your compliance record.
Identify Issues: Address any problems before applying.
Gather Documents: Compile required documentation.
Check Details: Confirm business details are current.
Submit Application
Online Submission: Apply through Immigration NZ online.
Pay Fee: Renewal fee required.
Supporting Documents: Upload required documentation.
Timeline: Track submission date.
Processing
INZ Assessment: INZ reviews renewal application.
Possible Queries: May be asked for additional information.
Record Review: Your accreditation history reviewed.
Decision: Renewal granted or issues addressed.
Renewal Fees
Fee Structure
Similar to Initial: Renewal fees similar to initial application.
Current Rates: Check Immigration NZ for current fees.
Higher Categories: High-volume and triangular have higher fees.
Budget Annually: Plan for renewal costs.
When to Pay
At Application: Fee paid at time of application.
Non-Refundable: Generally non-refundable.
Business Expense: Part of ongoing immigration compliance costs.
Your Compliance Record
What INZ Reviews
Employment Law: Compliance with employment legislation.
Immigration Obligations: Meeting visa-related obligations.
Wage Payment: Paying agreed wages.
Working Conditions: Providing agreed conditions.
Tax Obligations: IRD compliance.
Good Record Benefits
Smoother Renewal: Good record means easier renewal.
Less Scrutiny: Lower risk of issues.
Continued Access: Maintain ability to hire migrants.
Problems During Period
May Affect Renewal: Issues can affect renewal outcome.
Explanation Required: May need to explain problems.
Remediation: Show how issues were addressed.
Professional Help: Consider adviser assistance.
Addressing Issues
Before Applying
Fix Problems: Address any compliance issues first.
Document Improvements: Evidence of changes made.
Proactive Disclosure: Better to disclose than hide.
Seek Advice: Professional guidance valuable.
During Processing
Respond Promptly: Answer INZ queries quickly.
Be Honest: Transparent about any issues.
Provide Context: Explain circumstances.
Solutions Focused: Focus on remediation.
If Renewal at Risk
Take Seriously: Renewal decline has serious consequences.
Professional Help: Use immigration adviser.
Business Impact: Consider workforce implications.
Alternative Plans: Have contingency plans.
After Renewal
New Validity Period
New Expiry: Note new expiry date.
Set Reminders: Set reminders for next renewal.
Update Records: Update internal records.
Continue Compliance: Maintain good practices.
Ongoing Obligations
Same Requirements: Same obligations continue.
Active Compliance: Ongoing compliance effort.
Monitor Changes: Watch for policy changes.
Documentation: Maintain good records throughout.
What If You Don't Renew
Accreditation Lapses
Cannot Sponsor: Cannot support new AEWV applications.
Existing Workers: Current workers may be affected.
Business Impact: Immediate workforce impact.
Reinstatement: May need to apply fresh.
Reapplying After Lapse
New Application: May need to apply as new applicant.
History Considered: Gap may be noted.
Full Assessment: Full eligibility assessment.
Processing Time: Normal processing applies.
Avoiding Gaps
Apply Early: Submit renewal well before expiry.
Track Progress: Monitor processing.
Follow Up: Check on application status.
Escalate If Needed: Raise concerns if processing delayed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How early should I apply for renewal?
Apply at least 3 months before expiry, preferably earlier. This allows time for processing and addressing any issues that arise.
What if my renewal is still processing when accreditation expires?
Contact INZ about continuity. Generally, if you've applied for renewal before expiry, there may be transitional provisions, but confirm your specific situation.
Do I need to provide the same documents as initial application?
Similar documentation, but updated. Focus on current business information and your compliance record during the accreditation period.
What if I've had minor compliance issues?
Minor issues don't automatically prevent renewal. Be honest, explain circumstances, and show how you've addressed them.
Can my accreditation be declined for renewal?
Yes, if you haven't maintained requirements or have serious compliance issues. Address problems before applying and seek advice if concerned.
Approaching accreditation renewal? Find a licensed immigration adviser who can help you maintain continuous employer accreditation.