New Zealand•OceaniaAccredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)
At a Glance
Processing Time
14-56 days
Application Fee
4,290 NZD
Stay Duration
Up to 3 years
Renewable
Yes
Job Offer
Not Required
Dependents
Allowed
PR Pathway
Available
This visa can lead to permanent residency — the right to live and work here indefinitely without renewing your visa.Remote Work
Not Required
Overview
Temporary work visa for skilled and unskilled workers with a job offer from an accredited New Zealand employer. Valid for the duration of the employment contract, up to 3 years initially.
The Accredited Employer Work Visa replaced the Essential Skills Work Visa in July 2022. All employers must undergo accreditation to hire migrant workers. The visa is tied to employment and can lead to permanent residency through various pathways.
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Requirements
Financial
Minimum Income
65,748 NZD
per year
Minimum Savings
4,200 NZD
Professional
Experience
3+ years
Language
English
Basic
Documentation
Applicant Documents
Valid passport
6+ months validity
Employment contract
Signed by employer and worker
CV/Resume
Complete work history
Qualifications
Certificates, diplomas as relevant
OptionalPolice certificate
Good character
Health certificate
If required
OptionalSponsor Documents
Employer accreditation
Proof of INZ accreditation
Employment agreement
Terms and conditions of employment
Business registration
Company details
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Advantages
- Can bring family members
- Path to permanent residency
- No wage median requirement since March 2025
- 2 years experience requirement (reduced from 3)
- Can change employers
Considerations
- Requires employer accreditation
- Tied to specific employment
- High application fee
- Extended processing time possible
- Health checks may be required
Application Process
Secure job offer
From an accredited New Zealand employer
Gather employment documents
Employment agreement and employer details
Complete application
AEWV application form online
Provide required documents
Passport, CV, employment contract, qualifications
Health examination
If required for specific roles
Police certificate
Good character certificate
Pay application fee
NZD 4,290 and IVL levy
Await decision
Usually 2-8 weeks
Application Forms
Accredited Employer Work Visa Application
Ready to Apply?
Check your eligibility first to see how well you match this visa