Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) – New Zealand

The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) allows skilled overseas workers to live and work in New Zealand for an employer who has been approved by Immigration New Zealand (INZ).
This visa supports New Zealand businesses that are unable to fill genuine skill shortages locally and need access to overseas talent.

The AEWV is employer-led, meaning your job offer, employer accreditation, and role requirements all play a central role in visa approval.

Key Features of the AEWV

Employer Accreditation

To hire overseas workers, New Zealand employers must first be accredited by INZ.
Accredited employers demonstrate:

• Compliance with New Zealand employment laws
  
  
• Commitment to hiring and training New Zealand citizens and residents
  
  
• Financial and operational stability
  
  

Only accredited employers can sponsor workers under the AEWV.

Genuine Job Offer

Applicants must have a genuine, full-time job offer from an accredited employer.
The role must:

• Be on a skilled occupation pathway
  
  
• Meet New Zealand market pay rates
  
  
• Follow local employment standards and conditions
  
  

Length of Stay

Most AEWV holders can work in New Zealand for up to 3 years, depending on:

• Job type
  
  
• Skill level
  
  
• Pay rate
  
  
• Sector requirements
  
  

In some cases, visas can be renewed if eligibility continues to be met.

Pathway to Residence

For eligible roles and income thresholds, the AEWV may provide a pathway to New Zealand residence, including routes under:

• Skilled Migrant Category
  
  
• Sector-specific residence pathways
  
  

Eligibility depends on occupation, pay, and length of employment.

Family Visa Options

AEWV holders may be able to:

• Sponsor their partner for a work or visitor visa
  
  
• Bring dependent children to New Zealand
  
  

Family eligibility depends on the main applicant’s role and income level.

Health and Character Requirements

All applicants must meet INZ health and character standards, which may include:

• Medical examinations
  
  
• Chest X-ray
  
  
• Police clearance certificates
  
  

AEWV Application Process

Step 1: Employer Accreditation

The employer applies to INZ for accreditation to hire migrant workers.

Step 2: Job Offer

Once accredited, the employer issues a compliant job offer to the overseas worker.

Step 3: Visa Application

The applicant submits the AEWV application with:

• Identity documents
  
  
• Employment contract
  
  
• Qualifications and experience evidence
  
  
• English language evidence (if required)
  
  

Step 4: Visa Decision

If approved, the applicant receives the AEWV and can begin work in New Zealand under the approved conditions.

Why Get Professional Advice?

The AEWV process involves strict employer and role compliance.
Common issues include:

• Incorrect job classifications
  
  
• Pay rate mismatches
  
  
• Incomplete employer accreditation
  
  
• Incorrect residence pathway assumptions
  
  

Professional guidance helps avoid delays, refusals, and compliance risks.

How Visa Aid Can Help

Visa Aid provides end-to-end support for:

• AEWV eligibility assessment
  
  
• Employer accreditation guidance
  
  
• Job check and role compliance review
  
  
• Visa application preparation and submission
  
  
• Family visa applications
  
  
• Residence pathway planning
  
  

We focus on accuracy, compliance, and long-term outcomes.

Ready to Apply for the AEWV?

Speak with Visa Aid for clear, practical advice tailored to your role and employer.