The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) is New Zealand’s main work visa for skilled foreign workers in 2025. It allows accredited employers to hire overseas professionals when no suitable New Zealanders are available for a role. This guide provides a detailed, step-by-step process on how to apply for the AEWV, eligibility criteria, costs, salary requirements, and how to transition to permanent residency in New Zealand.
What Is the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)?
The AEWV is a work visa that enables you to live and work in New Zealand for an accredited employer for up to 3 years. It replaced several older visas such as the Essential Skills Work Visa and Talent (Accredited Employer) Visa. Under the AEWV, your employer must first be accredited and complete a job check before hiring you.
Key Benefits of AEWV (2025)
- Work for an accredited employer legally in New Zealand.
- Bring your partner and dependent children with full visa rights.
- Earn competitive salaries (median wage or higher).
- Eligibility to apply for residence through Skilled Migrant Category or Green List Pathways.
- Visa sponsorship and relocation assistance for qualified professionals.
Eligibility Criteria for AEWV 2025
- Job Offer: You must have a full-time job offer from an accredited New Zealand employer.
- Accredited Employer: The company must hold valid accreditation from Immigration New Zealand (INZ).
- Pay Rate: You must earn at least the current median wage (NZD $31.61/hour) unless exempt under specific sectors.
- Qualifications & Experience: Must match the occupation skill level as per ANZSCO (Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations).
- English Proficiency: Applicants should demonstrate basic English skills, though IELTS is not always required.
AEWV Application Process – Step by Step
Step 1: Employer Accreditation
Your prospective employer must apply for and obtain accreditation with Immigration New Zealand. Only accredited employers can offer roles under the AEWV.
- Accreditation types include: Standard, High-Volume, and Franchisee.
- Employers must prove compliance with employment and immigration laws.
Step 2: Job Check
The employer must pass a Job Check to confirm the role meets pay and skill standards. The job must:
- Pay at least the median wage.
- Have accurate job description and title as per ANZSCO codes.
- Be advertised to New Zealanders (if required).
Step 3: Job Offer and Invitation to Apply
Once the Job Check is approved, the employer issues you a Job Token (reference number) that allows you to start your visa application online through Immigration New Zealand’s portal.
Step 4: Submit Your AEWV Application
Log in to your Immigration New Zealand account and complete the AEWV form. You’ll need to upload:
- Passport and identity documents.
- Job offer letter and Job Token number.
- Educational qualifications or trade certificates.
- Work experience references.
- Medical certificate and police clearance.
Step 5: INZ Processing and Decision
Most AEWV applications are processed within 4–6 weeks. Immigration New Zealand may contact you or your employer for additional documents.
Step 6: Travel to New Zealand and Begin Work
Once your visa is granted, you can travel to New Zealand and begin work with your sponsoring employer. You’ll need to register for an IRD number and open a local bank account to receive your salary.
AEWV Duration and Conditions
- Visa validity: Up to 3 years (renewable).
- Employer specific: You must work only for the employer named in your visa.
- Job change: To change employers, a new Job Check and application are required.
- Path to residence: Eligible after 2 years through the Skilled Migrant or Green List Residence categories.
Median Wage and Salary Requirements (2025)
The AEWV uses New Zealand’s official median wage to determine eligibility and work rights. As of February 2025:
- Median Wage: NZD $31.61/hour or NZD $65,748 annually.
- Healthcare, construction, and IT roles are considered shortage occupations and may have lower thresholds.
- Employers must pay the market rate even if it exceeds the median wage.
Green List Occupations Eligible for AEWV
| Sector | Example Roles |
|---|---|
| Healthcare | Registered Nurse, Doctor, Physiotherapist |
| IT & Software | Software Engineer, Data Analyst, Cloud Architect |
| Construction | Quantity Surveyor, Civil Engineer, Electrician |
| Education | Teacher, Lecturer, Early Childhood Educator |
| Agriculture | Farm Manager, Agricultural Technician |
Application Fees (2025)
- Visa Fee: NZD $750 (approx.)
- Immigration Levy: NZD $200
- Total: Around NZD $950 for main applicant
- Some accredited employers reimburse visa fees and relocation costs for approved candidates.
Average Processing Time
- Employer Accreditation: 2–3 weeks
- Job Check: 2–3 weeks
- Visa Decision: 4–6 weeks
- Total Duration: 8–12 weeks (approx.)
Pathways to Permanent Residency
Holders of the AEWV can apply for permanent residency through several streams:
- Skilled Migrant Category: Based on qualification, work experience, and salary points.
- Green List Residence: Available to workers in Tier 1 or Tier 2 critical occupations.
- Work-to-Residence Visa: For applicants working in New Zealand for 24 months or more.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying through non-accredited employers.
- Submitting incomplete or incorrect documentation.
- Failing to meet the minimum pay rate for the occupation.
- Changing employers without new Job Check approval.
- Using unverified agents or paying for fake job offers.
Tips for a Successful AEWV Application
- Verify that the employer is listed on the INZ Accredited Employer Register.
- Highlight relevant skills and international work experience in your resume.
- Keep digital copies of all supporting documents for upload.
- Apply early before visa quotas fill in specific sectors.
- Prepare for potential relocation expenses (flights, housing deposit, etc.).
Post-Arrival Requirements
- Complete arrival registration and address notification within 14 days.
- Enroll with a general practitioner (GP) for healthcare access.
- Set up your IRD tax number and local bank account.
- Comply with all employment and visa conditions during your stay.
Family and Dependent Visas
AEWV holders can sponsor their spouse or partner and dependent children for accompanying visas. Partners can work full-time, and children may study in local schools as domestic students. Family applications can be lodged together or after arrival.
Living Costs in New Zealand (2025)
- Rent: NZD $400–$700 per week depending on location.
- Utilities: NZD $150–$250 monthly.
- Groceries: NZD $100–$150 weekly.
- Transport: NZD $80–$120 monthly.
- Healthcare: Subsidized after residence or long-term work.
Advantages of AEWV Over Other Work Visas
- Faster processing with employer accreditation.
- Direct transition to residency for Green List roles.
- Global recognition of work experience gained in New Zealand.
- Strong worker protection laws and employment rights.
- High job security due to sector shortages.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long can I stay on the AEWV?
Up to 3 years, renewable depending on your occupation and employer status.
2. Do I need IELTS for the AEWV?
Not necessarily. If you have studied or worked in an English-speaking environment, you can provide alternative evidence instead of an IELTS test.
3. Can I change my job after arriving in New Zealand?
Yes, but you must reapply for a new visa after your new employer completes a Job Check.
4. How can I get permanent residency?
You may apply after 2 years of full-time work through the Skilled Migrant or Green List pathways.
5. Do employers provide free visa sponsorship?
Many accredited employers cover visa fees, relocation costs, and initial accommodation for critical roles.
Conclusion
The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) offers one of the most reliable pathways to work and live in New Zealand in 2025. By partnering with accredited employers, following the step-by-step process, and meeting all documentation requirements, skilled workers can secure a well-paying job, bring their families, and transition toward permanent residency in one of the most livable countries in the world.