New Zealand · work sponsored
Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)
By Sam Parks · Last reviewed:
Employer-sponsored temporary work visa — New Zealand's main route for skilled workers with a job offer from an accredited employer.
- Processing time
- Employer accreditation: 5–10 working days. Job check: 5–10 working days. Visa application: 10–20 working days.
- Government fees
- Employer accreditation NZD 740; job check NZD 610; visa application NZD 750 (verify on INZ).
- Typical duration
- Up to 3 years (variable by occupation and pay).
- Sponsorship required
- Yes
- Leads to permanent residency
- No
Overview
The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV), introduced in mid-2022, replaced the former Essential Skills, Work to Residence, and other employer-linked work visas. The system has three stages: (1) employer accreditation, (2) job check, and (3) worker visa application. AEWV holders in Green List occupations or earning above the median wage can transition to residence via the SMC. Significant reforms were implemented in 2023–24 including median wage thresholds and skills-matching requirements.
Guidance by nationality
Specific information for applicants from these countries. Don’t see yours? The general eligibility criteria above apply to everyone.
Indian applicants
Indian AEWV holders are concentrated in IT, engineering, and healthcare. NZQA assessment of Indian qualifications is wel…
Filipino applicants
Filipino AEWV holders concentrate in healthcare (registered nurses via Nursing Council NZ), aged care, and trades. PRC p…
South African applicants
South African AEWV holders are concentrated in engineering, healthcare, and construction trades. SAPS police clearance (…
British applicants
British AEWV holders benefit from strong qualification recognition and English-language alignment. UK professional regis…
Eligibility
Typical criteria
- ✓Job offer from an employer with current INZ accreditation (Standard, High Volume, or Franchisee).
- ✓Job passes the job check: meets median wage (currently NZD 31.61/hour — verify on INZ) or is on the Green List, and labour-market test is satisfied.
- ✓Worker meets skill, qualification, and experience requirements for the role.
- ✓English-language requirement and health/character checks.
Common blockers
- !Employer not accredited or accreditation expired.
- !Salary below the median wage and occupation not on the Green List.
- !Failed job check — employer did not demonstrate labour-market test compliance.
Typical evidence
- ·Employer's accreditation number.
- ·Employment agreement specifying role, salary, and conditions.
- ·Qualification certificates and NZQA assessment where required.
- ·Police certificates and medical certificate.
Application pathway
Employer obtains accreditation
The employer must apply to INZ for accreditation (Standard, High Volume, or Franchisee) before sponsoring any worker.
Job check
The employer submits the job for a job check, demonstrating that the role meets the pay threshold and cannot be filled locally.
Worker applies for AEWV
The worker submits their visa application referencing the approved job check, with supporting documents.
Arrive and begin work
Once approved, the worker enters New Zealand and begins employment with the accredited employer.
Transition to residence
After meeting the qualifying period and criteria, workers in Green List roles or earning above the median wage can apply for SMC residence.
Official application links
Where to actually go next
These are the official pages to use for this route. Open them before preparing documents: the forms, fees, appointment systems, and sponsor steps can change without warning.
- Official guidanceEmployerGet AEWV employer accreditation ↗
Employer applies for accreditation and a job check before inviting the worker to apply.
Immigration New Zealand (INZ) · verified
- ApplyApplicantApply for AEWV ↗
Applicant uses the employer-provided job token or application link to submit the work visa application online.
Immigration New Zealand (INZ) · verified
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Frequently asked questions
What replaced the Essential Skills work visa in New Zealand?+
The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) replaced the Essential Skills visa, the Talent (Accredited Employer) work visa, and several other employer-linked categories in mid-2022. All employer-sponsored temporary work now goes through the three-stage AEWV process: employer accreditation, job check, worker application.
Can the AEWV lead to permanent residence?+
Yes, indirectly. AEWV holders in occupations on the Green List (either Straight to Residence or Work to Residence track) can apply for SMC residence after meeting qualifying periods. Workers earning above the median wage in other occupations can also apply for SMC with sufficient points.
What is the median wage for the AEWV job check?+
The median wage is set by INZ and updated periodically. As of the latest update, it is NZD 31.61 per hour. Jobs paying at or above the median wage are generally approved without additional labour-market testing. Jobs below the median wage face stricter requirements and may not lead to a residence pathway.
Can I change employer on an AEWV?+
The AEWV is tied to the employer and role specified in the application. To change employers, your new employer must be accredited, pass a fresh job check, and you must apply for a new AEWV. You cannot start working for the new employer until the new visa is granted.
Need tailored advice?
We do not provide legal advice. For an application that depends on your exact circumstances, consult a regulator-listed immigration advisor.
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