Migration Overseas
Back to New Zealand
The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) is New Zealand's primary work visa for skilled workers. Get sponsored by an accredited employer and build your pathway to residence.
The AEWV involves three parties: the employer, the job, and the worker. Each must be verified.
The employer must be accredited by Immigration NZ. This verifies they're a legitimate business that can support migrant workers.
The job must pass a "Job Check" to verify it's a genuine role, pays median wage or above, and NZ workers aren't available.
Once employer and job are approved, the worker applies for the AEWV with their qualifications and experience.
Key requirements you need to meet to qualify for the Accredited Employer Work Visa.
Must have a genuine job offer from an NZ employer with valid accreditation. The employer must have completed Job Check for your role.
Job must pay at least NZD $33.56/hour (median wage) for most roles. Some occupations may have different thresholds. Sector agreements may apply.
Must have relevant qualifications or work experience for the role. Some occupations require registration (e.g., healthcare, trades).
IELTS 5.0 overall (or equivalent) for most roles. Some jobs paying 200%+ of median wage are exempt. Customer-facing roles may need higher scores.
Must meet health requirements and provide police certificates from countries you've lived in for 5+ years since age 17.
The Accredited Employer Work Visa offers multiple benefits for skilled workers.
Work visa valid for up to 3 years (or 5 years for Green List occupations). Renewable if still employed.
Partner eligible for open work visa. Children can study at domestic rates in NZ schools.
Can lead to Skilled Migrant Category residence or Green List residence after qualifying period.
Access to publicly funded healthcare services in New Zealand as a work visa holder.
Can change to another accredited employer. New employer must complete Job Check for you.
Travel in and out of New Zealand freely during your visa validity period.
Average hourly rates and annual salaries for common occupations in New Zealand (NZD).
Key sectors in New Zealand actively recruiting skilled workers from overseas.
Software, Cloud, AI, Data
Building, Infrastructure
Nurses, Doctors, Carers
Farming, Viticulture
Teachers, ECE Workers
Food Processing, Tech
Truck Drivers, Logistics
Chefs, Hotel Staff
Step-by-step guide to getting your Accredited Employer Work Visa.
Search for job opportunities with NZ employers who have valid accreditation. Use job portals like Seek NZ, Trade Me Jobs, or industry-specific recruiters.
VariableOnce you have a job offer, your employer submits a Job Check application to Immigration NZ. This verifies the role and wage threshold.
10-20 Business DaysPrepare passport, qualifications, work experience letters, English test results, police certificates, and medical exam if required.
2-4 WeeksApply online through Immigration NZ. Pay the visa fee (NZD $750). Link your application to the approved Job Check token from your employer.
1 Day to SubmitImmigration NZ processes your application. They may request additional documents or schedule an interview. Most applications processed within 20 working days.
15-30 Working DaysReceive your AEWV approval (eVisa). Book flights and arrange accommodation. You must start work for your sponsoring employer within specified timeframe.
Ready to Work!Find answers to the most common questions about this visa category.
Main work visas include Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV), Essential Skills, Specific Purpose, Working Holiday, and Post-Study Work visa.
AEWV is the main employer-sponsored work visa. Employers must be accredited, job must pass a job check, and you must meet health, character, and skill requirements.
Employers must get accreditation proving they meet employment standards before they can hire migrants. Standard accreditation lasts 12 months, renewed for 24 months.
For skilled work and many residence pathways, the job must pay at least the median wage (currently $31.61/hour). Some roles have different thresholds.
AEWV is typically granted for up to 3 years. Duration depends on accreditation type and job offer. Extensions may be possible.
Yes, many work visa holders become eligible for Skilled Migrant Category or Green List residence pathways after gaining NZ work experience.
Yes, partner can apply for Partnership-based work visa with open work rights. Children can study in NZ schools.
For most roles, employers must advertise and demonstrate no suitable NZ workers available before hiring migrants. Some exemptions exist for shortage roles.
Requirements depend on role and visa. Many work visas don't require formal English evidence, but communication ability is assessed.
AEWV is employer-specific. Changing employers requires new employer accreditation check and new visa application.
Our experts can help you find accredited employers, prepare your application, and navigate the AEWV process smoothly.
Get Free ConsultationReady to explore your immigration options? Our expert team in Vadodara is here to guide you every step of the way. Get a free eligibility assessment and take the first step towards your dream destination.
Get Free Assessment