Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)

Your Pathway to Working in New Zealand

Are you looking for a fulfilling career opportunity in New Zealand? The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) is the primary work visa for migrants offered a job by a New Zealand employer who has met Immigration New Zealand's (INZ) accreditation standards. This visa streamlines the process, making it easier for you to work for a compliant and ethical employer in New Zealand.

As Licensed Immigration Advisers, ZFS NZ specializes in guiding individuals through every step of their AEWV application. Since 2022, we've been helping skilled migrants like you achieve their New Zealand aspirations.

Understanding the AEWV

The AEWV is a temporary work visa that connects eligible migrant workers with New Zealand employers who have gone through a rigorous accreditation and job check process with Immigration New Zealand. This ensures that the job offer is genuine, the employer is reputable, and local workers have been considered first.

Key Steps for Migrants:

  1. Job Offer from an Accredited Employer: You must secure a full-time job offer (at least 30 hours per week) from a New Zealand employer who holds current accreditation with Immigration New Zealand and has an approved 'Job Check' for your specific role.

  2. Meet Job Check Requirements: The job check approval will outline the specific skills, qualifications, and experience required for the role. You must meet these criteria.

  3. Meet Visa Eligibility: You'll need to satisfy general visa requirements, including health, character, and identity checks, along with specific skill and English language requirements (if applicable).

AEWV Eligibility for Migrant Workers (Key Requirements)

To be eligible for an AEWV, you generally need to meet the following:

  • Valid Job Offer: A genuine offer of full-time employment from an accredited New Zealand employer. The job offer must be current, match the details of an approved 'Job Check', and pay at least the market rate for your role and at least the New Zealand minimum wage (currently NZD $23.50 per hour as of April 1, 2025).

  • Skills & Experience: You must demonstrate that you have the skills and experience required for the job. As of March 10, 2025, the general requirement is 2 years or more of relevant job experience, or a qualification at NZQF Level 4 or higher in the same field or industry as your job offer. A Bachelor's degree or higher can be in any field.

  • English Language: If your job is on the ANZSCO skill level 4 or 5 list (and not exempt), you will need to provide evidence of English language proficiency.

  • Health and Character: You must meet Immigration New Zealand's health and character requirements. This typically involves providing medical certificates and police certificates.

  • Age: You generally need to be aged 55 years or under.

Important Changes (as of March 2025):

  • No Median Wage Requirement: Employers are no longer required to meet a median wage threshold for AEWV roles, but must pay the market rate and at least the minimum wage.

  • Reduced Work Experience: The general work experience requirement has been reduced from 3 years to 2 years.

  • Extended Visa Duration: For ANZSCO Skill Level 4 & 5 roles, the maximum AEWV duration is now 3 years. For ANZSCO Skill Level 1-3 roles, it can be up to 5 years.

  • Dependent Children: There is now a higher income threshold (NZD $55,844 per year as of March 10, 2025) for AEWV holders wishing to support dependent children's visa applications.

Benefits of the Accredited Employer Work Visa

  • Work for a Trusted Employer: The AEWV framework ensures that you are working for a compliant and responsible employer in New Zealand.

  • Clearer Pathway: A streamlined application process once your employer has their accreditation and job check.

  • Potential for Residency: For many AEWV holders, this visa can be a stepping stone towards a New Zealand Resident Visa, especially if your role is on the Green List or qualifies under the Skilled Migrant Category.

  • Longer Stay: Depending on your job's skill level and the specific conditions, you can secure a visa for up to 3 or 5 years.

  • Family Inclusion (with conditions): Under certain income thresholds, you may be able to support visas for your partner and dependent children to join you in New Zealand.

How ZFS NZ Can Help You

Applying for any New Zealand visa requires precision and a thorough understanding of INZ policies. We remove the stress and complexity by providing:

  • Personalised Eligibility Assessment: We'll assess your qualifications, experience, and job offer to confirm your AEWV eligibility.

  • Document Preparation: Expert guidance on compiling all necessary documents, including employment agreements, evidence of work experience, and any required certifications.

  • Application Submission: We meticulously prepare and submit your AEWV application to Immigration New Zealand on your behalf.

  • Liaison with INZ: We act as your primary contact with Immigration New Zealand, handling any queries or requests for further information.

  • Post-Visa Support: Advice on what to do once your visa is granted, including settling in New Zealand.

Ready to start your journey to New Zealand? Contact us today for a comprehensive consultation to discuss your Accredited Employer Work Visa options. We're here to make your move to New Zealand as smooth as possible.