Overview
The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) is the main temporary work visa for New Zealand. It requires you to have a job offer from an employer who has been accredited by Immigration New Zealand. The visa is tied to your specific employer and role, meaning you must apply for a new visa or a variation of conditions if your employment situation changes.
Who qualifies
To qualify, you must have a full-time job offer (at least 30 hours per week) from an accredited employer. Your employer must have completed a 'Job Check' to prove the role could not be filled by a New Zealand citizen or resident. You must also meet the health and character requirements, and depending on your role's skill level, you may need to meet specific qualification, work experience, or English language requirements.
Application steps
- 1
Step 1: Secure a Job Offer
Find a role with an accredited employer who will provide you with a job token.
- 2
Step 2: Prepare Documentation
Gather evidence of your skills, qualifications, and identity as required for your specific role.
- 3
Step 3: Submit Online Application
Use the job token provided by your employer to complete the online application via the Immigration New Zealand portal.
- 4
Step 4: Assessment
Immigration New Zealand assesses your application against health, character, and role-specific requirements.
- 5
Step 5: Visa Decision
Receive your visa decision; if approved, you may travel to New Zealand to begin work.
Required documents
- Valid passport
- Job token (provided by your employer)
- Employment agreement
- Proof of qualifications and/or work experience
- Medical and police certificates (if required)
- Proof of English language proficiency (for certain skill levels)
PR, family, language & arrival
Path to longer stay / PR
While the AEWV is a temporary visa, it can lead to residence pathways such as the Green List (Straight to Residence or Work to Residence) or the Skilled Migrant Category, depending on your role, qualifications, and income.
Family options
You may be able to support visitor or work visas for your partner, and visitor or student visas for your dependent children, depending on your salary and the skill level of your occupation.
Language notes
English language requirements apply to certain skill levels (typically ANZSCO skill levels 3 to 5).
After arrival
Once in New Zealand, you must work for your sponsoring employer. If you wish to change employers, you must apply for a new visa or a variation of conditions.
Common pitfalls
- Applying without a valid job token from an accredited employer
- Failing to meet the minimum wage or hour requirements
- Incomplete documentation regarding work experience or qualifications
- Assuming the visa automatically leads to residence
FAQs about Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)
Who is the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) for?+
Skilled workers who have secured a genuine, full-time job offer from an employer accredited by Immigration New Zealand.
What are the eligibility requirements for Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)?+
To qualify, you must have a full-time job offer (at least 30 hours per week) from an accredited employer. Your employer must have completed a 'Job Check' to prove the role could not be filled by a New Zealand citizen or resident. You must also meet the health and character requirements, and depending on your role's skill level, you may need to meet specific qualification, work experience, or English language requirements.
How much does the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) cost?+
Typical fees listed for Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV): From NZD $1,540. Always confirm on the official government site.
How long does Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) processing take?+
ImmigraPath currently lists processing time as: 80% of applications are processed within 8 weeks..
How long can I stay on the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)?+
Up to 5 years, depending on the job, skill level, and pay rate.
Can I work on the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)?+
Full work rights for the sponsoring employer; limited study rights (up to 3 months in any 12-month period).
Does Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) lead to permanent residence in New Zealand?+
While the AEWV is a temporary visa, it can lead to residence pathways such as the Green List (Straight to Residence or Work to Residence) or the Skilled Migrant Category, depending on your role, qualifications, and income.
What are common mistakes with Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)?+
Applying without a valid job token from an accredited employer Failing to meet the minimum wage or hour requirements Incomplete documentation regarding work experience or qualifications