The New Zealand Government announced on December 11, 2023, its intention to extend 90-day trial periods to all employers. The (INZ) clarifies that this does not apply to accredited employers and those on the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV).
On October 29, 2023, rules came into effect that mean accredited employers are not able to use 90-day trial periods in employment agreements. This is to encourage accredited employers to treat migrants fairly, and only recruit someone when they have a genuine labour need or skills gap to fill.
- Employment agreements provided with job check applications must not include a trial period.
- Employers who use a trial period in employment agreements will risk having their accreditation revoked.
- Breaches could be detected up front as part of the job check process, or through post-decision and reaccreditation checks.
Erickson Insights and Analysis
Erickson Immigration Group will continue to monitor developments and share updates as more news is available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or case-specific questions.