New Zealand Accredited Employer Work Visa Jobs 2026 – Complete Guide
By Status: open
The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) accepts applications year-round. Immigration New Zealand has adjusted AEWV settings several times since 2024, so confirm current wage thresholds and experience rules on immigration.govt.nz.
Status last checked September 24, 2026
New Zealand continues to attract skilled international workers in 2026 through the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) program. Introduced by Immigration New Zealand, the AEWV streamlines the process for accredited employers to hire foreign talent in sectors facing genuine labour shortages. Whether you are an engineer, healthcare professional, IT specialist, or tradesperson, the AEWV offers a transparent and well-structured pathway to work and potentially settle in one of the world's most liveable countries. This guide covers every step — from understanding the visa to securing a job offer and applying.
Overview
The Accredited Employer Work Visa replaced several previous work visa categories in 2022 and is now the primary employer-sponsored work visa in New Zealand. Under this system, employers must first become accredited by Immigration New Zealand, then obtain a Job Check to prove they cannot fill the role locally, and finally the worker applies for the AEWV. The visa is typically granted for up to three years, with pathways to residence through the Skilled Migrant Category or Green List occupations. Key sectors hiring under AEWV include healthcare, construction, ICT, engineering, agriculture, and hospitality.
Eligibility Requirements
- A job offer from a New Zealand Accredited Employer
- The role must have a valid Job Check approval from Immigration New Zealand
- Minimum pay threshold (currently NZD $29.66/hour median wage, or market rate for the role)
- Relevant qualifications, trade certifications, or professional registration as required for the role
- English language proficiency (IELTS 4.0+ overall for most roles; higher for regulated professions)
- Acceptable health and character checks
- Some occupations on the Green List have specific qualification requirements
Benefits
- Work legally in New Zealand for up to 3 years
- Pathway to New Zealand residence through the Skilled Migrant Category or Green List
- Partner and dependent children can apply for visas to join you
- Access to New Zealand's public healthcare system (after qualifying period)
- High quality of life with strong workplace protections
- Opportunity to gain New Zealand work experience valued for residence applications
- Some Green List roles offer a direct pathway to residence
Application Process
- 1Identify accredited employers hiring in your occupation — check the Immigration New Zealand employer accreditation register
- 2Apply for jobs through Seek.co.nz, Trade Me Jobs, or directly with employers
- 3Receive a formal job offer meeting AEWV pay and conditions requirements
- 4Employer obtains a Job Check from Immigration New Zealand (proves no suitable NZ workers available)
- 5Gather required documents including qualifications, English test results, police certificates, and medical examination
- 6Submit your AEWV application online through Immigration New Zealand's portal
- 7Pay the visa application fee (currently NZD $750)
- 8Wait for processing (typically 30–60 days depending on completeness)
- 9Receive visa approval and arrange travel to New Zealand
Required Documents
- Valid passport with at least 15 months validity
- Formal job offer letter from an accredited employer with Job Check number
- Qualification certificates and transcripts (with NZQA assessment if applicable)
- English language test results (IELTS, PTE Academic, or OET)
- Police clearance certificates from every country lived in for 5+ years
- Medical and chest X-ray examination from approved panel physician
- Evidence of professional registration (for regulated occupations like nursing, engineering)
- Passport-sized photographs meeting INZ specifications
Deadline
Rolling applications – no fixed deadline. Processing times vary; apply as soon as you have a job offer and Job Check approval.
Visit Official WebsiteFrequently Asked Questions
What is an Accredited Employer in New Zealand?
An accredited employer is a business that has been approved by Immigration New Zealand as meeting specific standards for employing migrant workers. Employers must demonstrate compliant workplace practices and genuine need for overseas workers. You can check whether an employer is accredited on the INZ website.
Can the AEWV lead to permanent residency in New Zealand?
Yes. Workers in Green List occupations may qualify for a direct residence pathway. Others can accumulate points toward the Skilled Migrant Category resident visa after gaining work experience in New Zealand.
What is the median wage threshold for AEWV?
The current median wage threshold is NZD $29.66 per hour. Some roles, particularly in ANZSCO skill levels 4–5, have specific sector agreements with different thresholds. Always check the latest rates on the INZ website.
Can my partner work in New Zealand on my AEWV?
Yes, your partner can apply for a work visa. If you earn above the median wage or work in a Green List occupation, your partner may be eligible for an open work visa allowing them to work for any employer.
How long does AEWV processing take?
Processing typically takes 30–60 working days for complete applications. Delays can occur if documents are missing or additional checks are required. Submitting a fully complete application significantly speeds up processing.
Conclusion
New Zealand's AEWV program is one of the most structured and transparent employer-sponsored visa pathways available in 2026. With strong labour demand across healthcare, IT, trades, and engineering, qualified international workers have excellent prospects. Start by identifying accredited employers in your field, prepare your documents early, and apply through official Immigration New Zealand channels. For more career opportunities abroad, explore our guides to visa sponsorship jobs in Canada and skilled worker jobs in Germany on Opportuned Hub.