New Zealand-(AEWV)
New Zealand – Accredited Employer Work Visa 
Start Your New Life in New Zealand
New Zealand is one of the world’s most attractive destinations for skilled professionals. Through the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) program, you can live and work in New Zealand while contributing your skills to a thriving economy.
If you have a job offer from an Immigration New Zealand–accredited employer, you may be eligible to apply.
What is the AEWV?
The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) allows skilled migrants to work for employers who have been approved (accredited) by Immigration New Zealand.
Visa validity: Up to 3 years (with renewal options).
Pathway to residency: Yes, through the Skilled Migrant or Green List residency categories
Family benefits: Eligible to bring your spouse and dependent children.
Benefits of New Zealand Accredited Employers Work Visa
Pathway to Residency
Certain AEWV roles on the Green List provide a direct or fast-track route to permanent residency.
Education & Healthcare Access
Enjoy quality healthcare and world-class education for you and your family.
Career Growth
Gives you authorization to live and work in New Zealand for an accredited employer.
Access to Quality Life
Enjoy New Zealand’s safe environment, strong work-life balance, and high living standards.
Family Inclusion
Your partner and dependent children may be eligible for visas to join you in New Zealand.
Welcoming Culture
Experience a diverse, migrant-friendly society that supports smooth integration into New Zealand life.
New Zealand Accredited Employers Work Visa Eligibility
Nominate Your Occupation
Choose an occupation listed on New Zealand’s Green List or one recognized as in demand.
Skills Assessment
Ensure your qualifications and work experience are aligned with ANZSCO standards and New Zealand’s immigration criteria.
Demonstrate Experience
Provide evidence of skilled work experience (usually at least 2–3 years), preferably with a job offer from an accredited New Zealand employer.
English Language Proficiency
Meet the English requirement: IELTS 6.5 overall, or equivalent scores in PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, or Cambridge English.
Verify Financial Capacity
Show that you have sufficient funds or employment income to support yourself and your family after moving.
Health & Character Checks
Pass a medical examination and obtain police clearances from countries where you’ve lived to meet New Zealand’s health and character standards.
In-Demand Sectors of New Zealand AEWV Program
Healthcare & Nursing
Certain AEWV roles on the Green List provide a direct or fast-track route to permanent residency.
Construction & Infrastructure
Enjoy quality healthcare and world-class education for you and your family.
Engineering & IT
Gives you authorization to live and work in New Zealand for an accredited employer.
Tourism & Hospitality
Enjoy New Zealand’s safe environment, strong work-life balance, and high living standards.
Education & Teaching
Your partner and dependent children may be eligible for visas to join you in New Zealand.
Steps to Success: New Zealand Accredited Employer Work Visa
01.
Check Eligibility
Verify age (under 55), occupation (Green List/ANZSCO)
02.
Verify
Skills
Ensure your qualifications and experience meet Immigration NZ and ANZSCO standards
03.
Language Skills
Achieve IELTS 6.5 overall or equivalent in PTE, TOEFL, or Cambridge English
04.
Job
Search
Apply to accredited employers in your field
05.
Job
Offer
Employer completes the required Job Check.
06.
Apply
Visa
Submit AEWV visa application with Immigration New Zealand.
07.
Visa Approval
Immigration New Zealand assesses and grants your Accredited Employer Work Visa.
08.
Move
to NZ
Relocate to New Zealand and begin your new life with residency benefits.
Let’s discuss the details
Schedule a meeting Today! One of our advisor will analyze your profile and help you find a solution based on your goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
You must be under age 55, have a job offer from an accredited employer, and your occupation should align with the Green List or ANZSCO skill standards
No, the AEWV is typically granted for up to 3 years, but you may renew it and eventually move to a permanent residency pathway through relevant immigration categories.
Not necessarily. What matters more is that your skills, qualifications, and work history meet the standards required by Immigration NZ and the relevant assessing authority.
Yes. Your spouse or partner and dependent children can apply to join you under dependent visas and access many benefits in New Zealand.
You should remain employed with the accredited employer who sponsored you. Leaving before the term ends may affect your visa status unless you find another accredited employer and apply for a variation.
Processing times can vary, but typically a few weeks to a few months, depending on completeness of documentation and demand.
Yes. Many AEWV holders can transition into residency via Skilled Migrant Category or via roles listed on the Green List, if they meet additional requirements.
Besides employment, you must meet health and character requirements, maintain good standing, and follow visa conditions (e.g. lawful conduct, reporting changes) while in New Zealand.