UPDATE: Accredited Employer Work Visa

23 May 2022

The first stage of the new “Accredited Employer work visa” system went live yesterday and Immigration lawyers and advisors are all go!


In case you are somehow still out of the loop, from 4 July 2022 all employers wanting to support migrant workers for a visa application will need to be an Immigration New Zealand “Accredited Employer”.


For most businesses, getting Accredited will be a relatively straightforward process. You will need to declare that your business is financially viable, is compliant with all New Zealand employment and immigration laws, is committed to supporting your migrant workers and will complete a series of online employment modules (and will let your migrant employees do the same).


However, if your business places migrant employees with a third party (i.e. if you are a labour-hire company) or is a franchisee, then you will need to meet extra requirements before your business can be Accredited.


Once your business is Accredited, there will be additional steps before you can hire migrant staff. First, you will need to advertise the role you want to fill (called the “Job Check”) and submit the results of the advertising to Immigration New Zealand. Job Check applications will open on 10 June 2022. Your business will not need to complete the Job Check step if the role pays twice the median wage ($55.52 per hour) or is on the Green List of skill shortage occupations (https://www.immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas/apply-for-a-visa/tools-and-information/work-and-employment/green-list-occupations).


If the Job Check is approved, then your prospective migrant employee will need to submit an application for the new Accredited Employer work visa. Accredited Employer work visa applications will be open from 4 July 2022. From this date, you will only be able to support migrant workers for visas under the Accredited Employer work visa.


Get in touch with us as soon as possible if you want to know more about Accredited Employer work visa and what it will mean for your business!

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Top 10 buying and selling property questions people ask our Christchurch law team

17 April 2025
Navigating property transactions can be complex, especially in Christchurch's dynamic real estate market. At our Christchurch law firm, Weston Ward and Lascelles, our property lawyers in Christchurch frequently address these common questions from clients. Whether you're a first-home buyer , seasoned investor, or selling your family home, understanding these aspects of property conveyancing will help ensure a smooth transaction. 1. What exactly does a property lawyer do during a property transaction? Our Christchurch property lawyers handle all legal aspects of a property transaction, including reviewing and drafting the Sale and Purchase Agreement, conducting thorough title searches, liaising with your bank regarding mortgage documentation, managing settlement processes, and ensuring proper transfer of ownership. Essentially, we take the reins (and the stress) from you and take control of the house buying or selling process to make sure potential pitfalls are identified and fixed, everything is legal, and your interests protected. 2. When should I engage a property lawyer in the buying or selling process? The short answer is yesterday. The longer answer is that ideally, you should contact us before signing any agreements. Early engagement allows us to review documents, explain conditions, and identify potential issues before you're legally committed. For sellers, we can help prepare your property's legal documentation in advance, making your property more attractive to serious buyers and streamlining the conveyancing process. However, if you have already signed paperwork and have not instructed a law firm, don’t panic – you aren’t the first people, and you won’t be the last. Contact our property law team in our Christchurch offices at your earliest convenience. 3. What are the risks of purchasing a property without proper legal advice? Without quality property law advice in Christchurch, buyers risk overlooking critical issues such as title defects, council compliance matters, boundary disputes, or easements that might impact property value and enjoyment. Unfortunately, Weston Ward and Lascelles’ property lawyers have seen many cases where buyers faced significant, yet avoidable with proper legal representation, unexpected costs or legal complications. Nobody likes the idea of having to pay for legal services, until its too late. It is more cost efficient to pay for legal advice before any issue has snowballed. 
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Can I break/get out of my commercial lease?

9 April 2025
If you need legal services because you have an existing agreement and wish to break the commercial lease, contact Weston Ward Lascelles Solicitors today!