The New Zealand Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) remains a primary pathway for skilled foreign workers to live and work in New Zealand. However, in 2025, there are important updates to salary thresholds, eligible roles, and application rules that every applicant and employer should be aware of.
If you’re planning to apply for the AEWV or renew your current visa, this guide breaks down the latest changes in 2025, what they mean for your application, and how to stay eligible.
What is the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)?
The AEWV is New Zealand’s key work visa program that allows overseas workers to take up a full-time job with an accredited employer.
To qualify, you must:
- Have a job offer from a New Zealand employer accredited by Immigration NZ
- Meet the required skill level, qualifications, or experience
- Be paid at least the current median wage (or a sector-specific exemption)
What’s New in 2025? (AEWV Changes at a Glance)
1. New Median Wage Threshold
As of February 2025, Immigration New Zealand has increased the median wage requirement to:
NZD $31.50 per hour (was $29.66 in 2023–2024)
That’s approximately:
- NZD $65,520 per year for a 40-hour/week role
To qualify under the standard AEWV, your job must pay at or above this rate, unless it falls under an approved exemption.
2. Green List Updates
The Green List has been revised to include and remove roles based on skill shortages.
Newly Added (2025):
- Cybersecurity specialists
- Construction project managers
- Clinical psychologists
- Automotive technicians (regional)
- Primary school teachers (rural locations)
Removed or Moved to Watchlist:
- General electricians
- Restaurant managers
- Graphic designers
🔗 Check the latest Green List roles – Immigration NZ
3. Sector Agreements Extended
Certain sectors continue to benefit from wage exemptions and lower thresholds, including:
- Aged Care: NZD $28.25/hour
- Hospitality: NZD $28.25/hour (chefs only)
- Meat and Seafood Processing: As per seasonal cap
- Construction and Infrastructure: Specific roles under wage exemption caps
If you’re applying under a Sector Agreement, your employer must still be accredited, and the role must meet industry standards.
4. AEWV Pathways to Residency Still Active
If your role is on the Green List (Tier 1 or 2) or you earn 2x the median wage, you’re eligible for a residency pathway:
- Straight to Residence: Tier 1 Green List
- Work to Residence (after 2 years): Tier 2 roles or high earners
This remains one of the fastest ways to secure New Zealand PR through skilled work.
Eligibility Requirements for AEWV in 2025
To apply, you must have:
- A full-time job offer from an accredited NZ employer
- A job that pays at least the median wage (or approved exemption)
- Relevant qualifications or 2+ years of experience
- Proof of English proficiency (if requested)
- Clean health and police records
The role also needs to be advertised in New Zealand first, unless exempt under the Green List.
How to Check If Your Job Qualifies
Use the AEWV Role Checker Tool or refer to:
- The Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO)
- Immigration NZ’s Green List
- Sector-specific wage exemption tables
If your job doesn’t meet the wage threshold or isn’t considered skilled, it may not qualify under the AEWV anymore.
Application Steps (AEWV – 2025)
1. Employer Accreditation
Your employer must be approved by Immigration NZ.
2. Job Check
Employer submits the job details and confirms wage and job match under AEWV guidelines.
3. Visa Application
You apply online with:
- Passport
- Job offer and employment agreement
- Proof of qualifications or work experience
- Police and medical certificates (if required)
Processing Time: Typically 20–40 working days
FAQs
- 1. What is the new AEWV salary threshold in 2025?
As of 2025, the AEWV salary threshold is NZD $31.50 per hour or NZD $65,520 annually for full-time roles.
- 2. Can I still apply for AEWV below the median wage?
Yes, but only if the role is covered under a Sector Agreement or has a valid wage exemption.
- 3. Which jobs are in demand for AEWV in 2025?
In-demand roles include cybersecurity, healthcare, teaching, aged care, construction, and automotive trades, especially in regional areas.
- 4. Does AEWV lead to New Zealand PR?
Yes, if you work in a Green List role or earn 2x the median wage, you may qualify for residency after 2 years.
- 5. Can I bring my family on an AEWV?
Yes. AEWV holders can sponsor partners and dependent children to live and study in New Zealand.