Work Visa
New Zealand’s thriving industries and welcoming communities make it an ideal destination to build your career. We provide specialized support for every work visa pathway, helping you secure your future and make the most of every opportunity in this dynamic country.
What is an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) NZ?
Important Updates as of April 2024: Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has introduced significant changes to the New Zealand immigration visa process, specifically for the AEWV. These changes impact both employer and employee requirements, with some roles now facing reduced maximum visa durations.
Quick Visa Summary
- Visa: Accredited Employer Work Visa NZ
- Duration: 2 + 1 year for certain jobs or up to 5 years for specific roles
- Processing Time: Up to 12 weeks (Check current visa processing times on the New Zealand immigration website)
AEWV Overview
The Accredited Employer Work Visa operates under a three-check system:
- Employer Check: New Zealand employers must be accredited to hire overseas workers.
- Job Check: Ensures the job meets the necessary requirements, including wage criteria and job advertisement duration.
- Migrant Check: Verifies that the migrant meets the visa requirements.
Key Changes to AEWV (April 2024):
- New Minimum Skill Requirement:
- At least 3 years of relevant experience or a Level 4 diploma (assessed by NZQA) is now mandatory, except for roles on the Green List or jobs paying twice the national median wage.
- New English Language Requirement: Specific language proficiency standards must now be met.
- Visa Length Changes: Adjustments have been made to the duration of visas for certain roles.
Requirements to Apply for AEWV
To successfully apply for an Accredited Employer Work Visa, you need to meet the following criteria:
- Identity: A copy of your passport and an acceptable photo.
- Character Information: Police checks (PCC) from your country of origin and any country where you’ve lived for over 12 months.
- Health Information: Medical exams and x-rays are typically required.
- Job Offer & Job Token: Employer-provided documents, including a compliant employment agreement.
- Proof of Relevant Experience/Qualification: As required by the new rules since April 2024.
- Occupational Registration: Necessary for certain roles.
- English Language Tests: As specified by visa requirements.
Visa Categories Replaced by AEWV
Since its introduction in July 2022, the AEWV has replaced several temporary visa categories, including:
- Talent Accredited Employer Work Visa NZ
- Long-Term Skill Shortage List Work Visa NZ
- Silver Fern Job Search Visa
- Silver Fern Practical Experience Visa
- Essential Skills Visa
- Essential Skills Approval in Principal Visa
It’s important to note that other temporary visa categories, such as partnership visas, working holiday visas, and student visas with work rights, remain unaffected by the AEWV policy.
AEWV Processing Times in New Zealand
The New Zealand immigration process for work visas can take up to 12 weeks, depending on several factors:
- Incomplete Applications: Missing or excessive documents can delay processing.
- Additional Information Requests: The government may request further documentation, which can be checked online in some cases.
- External Information: Delays may occur if the government is waiting for documents from other organizations, such as international qualification verifications.
- High Application Volume: A large number of applications can slow down processing times.
For the latest processing time updates, visit the New Zealand immigration site.
We're Here to Support You
The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) application process can be overwhelming due to its increasing complexity.
Staying informed and compliant with immigration laws and the latest regulations is essential for a successful application. Our expert team is committed to guiding you through these challenges, ensuring you have the best possible chance of securing your work visa in New Zealand.
Post-Study Work Visa (PSWV)
For international graduates, the PSWV provides an opportunity to gain valuable work experience after completing studies in New Zealand.
- Up to Three Years of Employment: Depending on your qualification, you may be eligible for 1-3 years of work authorization, allowing you to gain local experience.
- Job Search Support: Benefit from job market insights and job-hunting resources tailored to your field.
- Professional Networking: Connect with New Zealand’s employers and industry professionals to jump-start your career.
Special Work Visas for Partners
If you’re the partner of a New Zealand work or student visa holder, you can apply for a work visa to join them, making your stay productive and enjoyable.
- Flexible Work Options: Partners of work visa holders can access various employment opportunities, making it easy to work while enjoying life in New Zealand.
- Support for Partners of Students: Partners of student visa holders also have access to tailored work visas, allowing families to stay together while pursuing goals.
Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) Scheme
Ideal for temporary work in the agricultural sector, this visa allows seasonal workers to support New Zealand’s agricultural industry.
- Opportunities in Agriculture: Access seasonal roles in fruit picking, farming, and vineyard work, gaining hands-on experience in New Zealand’s agriculture.
- Flexible Stay Options: With short-term and renewable options, the RSE visa provides flexible solutions for seasonal work needs.
Religious Worker Visa
For individuals working within religious organizations, this visa offers a unique pathway to serve communities in New Zealand.
- Community Involvement: Serve in pastoral, ministerial, or community-based roles, contributing to local congregations.
- Pathway to Residency: Religious workers can transition to residency after certain criteria are met, allowing for long-term community engagement.
Skilled Migrant
How Can New Zealand Occupational Registration Help You Earn Points?
If you have New Zealand occupational registration, you can claim points based on the training required for your registration. Points are allocated as follows:
- 6 points: For registration requiring 6 years of training (e.g., Physiotherapist, Cadastral Surveyor, Maritime Master, Psychologist)
- 5 points: For registration requiring 5 years of training (e.g., Registered Teacher, Osteopath, Pharmacist, Marine Chief Mate)
- 4 points: For registration requiring 4 years of training (e.g., Anaesthetic Technician, Barrister or Solicitor, Drainlayer)
- 3 points: For registration requiring 2-3 years of training (e.g., Electrician, Distribution Line Mechanic, Marine Engineer, Medical Laboratory Pre-Analytical Technician)
Want to understand how your New Zealand occupational registration affects your visa application?
What Points Can You Claim with Your Qualification for a New Zealand Immigration Visa?
Your qualifications can also help you earn points for your New Zealand immigration visa. Whether you hold a New Zealand tertiary qualification or an international qualification assessed by the NZQA, you can earn points as follows:
- 6 points: Level 10 Doctoral Degree
- 5 points: Level 9 Master’s Degree
- 4 points: Level 8 Bachelor Honours Degree or Postgraduate Diploma
- 3 points: Level 8 Postgraduate Certificate or Level 7 Bachelor’s Degree
Looking to leverage your qualifications for your New Zealand immigration process? Get in touch with our experts to find out how your qualifications can boost your visa application.
How Does Your Income Impact Your Points for the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa?
If you have a job or job offer in New Zealand, your income level can significantly affect the points you earn:
- 6 points: For a job or job offer at 3 times the median wage or more
- 5 points: For a job or job offer at 2 times the median wage or more
- 4 points: For a job or job offer at 1.5 times the median wage or more
Need help with calculating how your income affects your visa application?
Submit an EOI for a Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa
Use the EOI form to submit an expression of interest (EOI) for a Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa. If your EOI is approved, it takes an invitation to apply for the visa. The Expression of Interest (EOI) process for New Zealand’s Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Resident Visa follows these key steps:
- Submit an EOI: You can submit an EOI at no cost, allowing you to claim points based on your age, qualifications, work experience, and skilled employment. These points determine your ranking for selection.
- Receive a Notification: If you meet the basic eligibility criteria, you will receive a notification via email informing you whether you've been selected to apply for the visa.
- Submit Supporting Documents: Once invited to apply, you must provide documentation, such as police and medical certificates, and proof of employment or a job offer, to support your application.
- Await a Decision: An immigration officer will review your application and decide on your residency status. If further information is required, they will contact you directly.
The EOI process for the SMC Resident Visa typically takes around 8–12 weeks.
Start your Expression of Interest today and let us guide you through the process for a successful outcome!
What Are the Additional Requirements for the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa?
To qualify for the SMC Resident Visa, you must meet several criteria:
- The job or job offer must be from an Accredited Employer, genuine, full-time, permanent, or at least 12 months (6 months for contractors), and skilled.
- You must meet the Residence class visa requirements for character, health, and English language.
- Principal applicants must be 55 years old or younger.
Have questions about meeting the New Zealand immigration requirements? Book a consultation with our immigration consultants to assess your eligibility and navigate the immigration process.
Entrepreneur Work Visa
Designed for aspiring business owners, this visa enables you to start, invest in, or operate a business in New Zealand.
- Business Establishment Support: Receive guidance on New Zealand’s business setup processes, including registration and compliance.
- Pathway to Residency: Successful entrepreneurs may qualify for residency, making this visa ideal for those with long-term business aspirations.
Global Impact Work Visa
Targeted at global innovators, this visa supports individuals in sectors like tech, environmental science, and social impact.
- Work with New Zealand Impact Networks: Engage with communities and networks focused on innovative projects that make a difference globally.
- Pathway to Permanent Residency: Individuals contributing to New Zealand’s impact sector may qualify for permanent residency, enabling long-term growth and influence.
Let’s build your New Zealand career together.
Discover the Right Work Visa for You!