What is Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)?

The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) is New Zealand’s primary work visa for skilled foreign nationals who have a job offer from a New Zealand employer accredited by Immigration New Zealand (INZ). This visa allows overseas workers to live and work in New Zealand for up to 5 years, depending on the job type and sector.

It replaces several older work visas (including the Essential Skills Work Visa) and aligns with New Zealand’s need for international talent in key industries such as construction, healthcare, IT, engineering, agriculture, and tourism.

Key Benefits of the AEWV

Work Legally in New Zealand: Be employed by a licensed, accredited employer in a full-time role.
Bring Your Family: You may be able to bring your partner and dependent children on visitor, work, or student visas.
Earn a Competitive Salary: Jobs offered must meet the New Zealand median wage or be listed as an exception.
Clear Pathway to Residence: AEWV can lead to permanent residency through the Green List, Sector Agreements, or the Skilled Migrant Category.
Job Security: Work with employers who meet ethical and legal employment standards.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV), you must:

Hold a full-time job offer from a New Zealand employer accredited by Immigration New Zealand.
Meet the work experience and/or qualification requirements relevant to your specific job.
Satisfy any additional criteria based on the skill level your role requires.
Have spent the necessary time outside New Zealand if you’ve previously stayed for the maximum period on an AEWV and are applying for a new one.
Demonstrate English language ability if your job is classified as ANZSCO skill level 4 or 5 (unless exempt).
Fulfill all other standard requirements for this visa, including health and character checks.

Who is an Accredited Employer?

An accredited employer is a New Zealand business approved by Immigration New Zealand to hire foreign workers. To gain accreditation, employers must:

Show commitment to fair pay and good working conditions
Be financially stable and legally compliant
Support the settlement and wellbeing of migrant employees
Avoid exploiting foreign workers

AEWV Validity and Conditions

The visa is typically valid for up to 3–5 years, based on:

The pay rate offered (above or below the median wage)
Whether the job is on the Green List
The sector the job is in (e.g. care workers, construction, agriculture, etc.)

Visa extensions or renewals are possible, but there may be a stand-down period if you've worked for more than 3 years in New Zealand and don’t meet residence requirements.

Key Facts

Length of Stay: Up to 5 years (based on the job offered)
Cost: From NZD $1540
Processing Time: 80% processed within 5 weeks
Residency Option: Yes, can lead to a residence visa

How Can Career Brick Consultants Assist You?

At Career Brick Consultants, we are dedicated to guiding individuals and families through every stage of their immigration journey. Our approach is personalized, transparent, and unbiased, ensuring that each client receives advice tailored to their unique goals and circumstances.

With years of expertise in handling New Zealand immigration cases, our team provides end-to-end support — from the initial consultation to final application submission. We take pride in simplifying the complex immigration process and helping you make informed decisions with confidence.

Our Services Include:

Free Consultation
Free Eligibility Checks
Expert Guidance for NZ Immigration

Pathways to Residence

The AEWV is not just a work permit — it can also help you transition to permanent residency. You may become eligible for residence if:

1. Your role is on the Green List

Certain high-demand roles (e.g. nurses, engineers, IT specialists) qualify for fast-tracked residence.

2. You apply through the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC)

After working in New Zealand and accumulating points based on skills, experience, and qualifications.

3. You meet requirements under sector-specific residence pathways

This includes long-term work in critical industries such as aged care, construction, or agriculture.