As the dairy sector gears up for the next season, many farming businesses, especially new contract milkers and sharemilkers, are realising they may need migrant workers to keep operations running smoothly. If you’re not yet accredited with Immigration New Zealand, now is the time to get organised before you may have to employ migrants.
Supporting a migrant worker on an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) isn’t something that can be done at the last minute. It’s a structured, 3-step process, and each stage takes time. Delays can mean staff aren’t on-farm when calving starts and you need them most.
The AEWV Pathway:
Whether you’re a long-established farming business or a new contract milker or sharemilker stepping into employer responsibilities for the first time, supporting an AEWV holder requires completing all 3 steps below.
1. Employer Accreditation
Accreditation is your licence to hire migrant staff on an AEWV. You must show Immigration New Zealand that your business is compliant, financially stable, and committed to fair employment practices.
For many farming businesses, especially new contract milkers and sharemilkers, this step can involve registering for a NZ business number and working with your accountant and immigration adviser to show you have a credible 24-month business plan or the capital to back your business operation. If you are an existing business, you will need to assess your financials and prepare evidence to show that you are a viable and genuinely operating business. Starting early avoids unnecessary stress.
2. Job Check approval
Once accredited, you must apply for a Job Check. This confirms that:
- The role meets market standards
- You’ve advertised the job to New Zealanders where required (some roles don’t need to be advertised)
- The employment terms are compliant with employment law
- The role fits the skill level you are claiming
For dairy roles, this step is crucial and preparation needs to be detailed and accurate. Job Checks can take time to process, and any errors or missing information can cause delays.
3. Supporting your worker’s AEWV application
Only after the Job Check is approved can your chosen worker apply for their visa. You’ll need to provide them with:
- The Job Check token
- A compliant employment agreement and job description
Processing times vary, and workers may also need medicals, police certificates, or other documents. If you leave this step too late, your worker may not be able to start work before calving.
Migrants will also want to work for an employer who is organised, with their accreditation and job check prepared in advance of a job offer being made. Being organised will help you attract the best person for your business.
Why this matters for the upcoming dairy season
The dairy calendar doesn’t wait for paperwork. If you rely on migrant labour, or think you might, being proactive is essential.
- New contract milkers and sharemilkers often underestimate how long accreditation and Job Checks take.
- Nonaccredited farms risk missing out on skilled workers if they delay.
- Seasonal pressure means every week counts when preparing for calving and peak production.
Starting the AEWV process now ensures your team is in place, trained, and ready when the season begins.
Getting accredited early sets you up for the future
Even if you’re not hiring immediately, accreditation gives you flexibility. It allows you to:
- Respond quickly if a staff member resigns and they need replacing
- Support returning workers
- Plan for growth or unexpected labour shortages
For new contract milkers and sharemilkers, accreditation is becoming a standard part of running a modern dairy business.
Greenstone is here to help
Immigration processes can feel overwhelming, especially alongside day-to-day farm work. Working with a licensed immigration adviser helps ensure everything is done correctly and without unnecessary delays.
If you’re planning to employ migrant staff next season, or even just want to understand what’s involved, get in touch with Greenstone Immigration by calling us on 07 850 1411, or sending us an email at [email protected]. Our 9 Licensed Immigration Advisers can talk you through the process and help you get organised early.
Licensed Immigration Adviser