AEWV Application Fees 2026: Full Cost Breakdown

Applying for an AEWV involves more than just the visa application fee. You may also need to budget for IELTS, medical examinations, police certificates and other supporting documents. Your employer pays separate fees for employer accreditation and the Job Check.

Below is a quick checklist.

Note: Fees are indicative only and may change. Always check the latest fees with Immigration New Zealand and your test provider before applying.

If you're applying for an AEWV, you'll usually pay for your own visa application and supporting documents. Your employer pays separate fees for employer accreditation and the Job Check.

AEWV application fee

Cost: NZD $1,540.

You'll pay this fee when you submit your application online. It covers Immigration New Zealand's assessment of your visa application and includes the immigration levy.

In most cases, the fee isn't refunded if your application is declined.

Medical examination

Typical costs are:

• Medical examination: NZD $300–500

• Chest X-ray (if required): NZD $100–150

You may need to complete a medical examination as part of your application. Some applicants will also need a chest X-ray.

These assessments must be completed through an approved panel physician.

Police certificates

Cost: NZD $50–150

You may need to provide police certificates to show that you meet New Zealand's character requirements.

The cost depends on the country that issues your certificate. As a guide, most applicants pay around NZD $50–150, not including any courier, translation or certification costs.

English language test (IELTS)

Cost: NZD $490

Some AEWV applicants need to prove their English language ability.

If you're required to take an English test, IELTS is one of the approved options. An IELTS test costs around NZD $490, although the exact fee may vary depending on where you take the test.

Even if IELTS isn't required for your AEWV application, it may be useful if you plan to apply for permanent residence later. Some residence pathways have higher English language requirements, so preparing early can help keep your options open.

Good to know:

Not all AEWV applicants need to meet an English requirement. Know whether you need IELTS for your occupation.

If you are an employer, you'll need to pay separate fees before you can hire someone on an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV). These fees are different from the worker's visa application costs.

Employer accreditation

Before you can hire migrant workers under the AEWV scheme, you must become an accredited employer.

The fee depends on the type of accreditation you need.

If you already have standard accreditation and want to hire more workers, you can upgrade to high-volume accreditation. The upgrade fee is NZD $505.

Job Check

After becoming accredited, you must complete a Job Check for each role you want to fill.

A Job Check confirms that the position meets Immigration New Zealand's requirements. The application fee is NZD $735. Your worker can't apply for an AEWV until the Job Check has been approved.

Good to know: If you're an AEWV applicant, you don't need to pay your employer's accreditation or Job Check fees. These are paid by your employer.

Some fees are your responsibility. Others are paid by your employer. The table below shows who usually pays each cost.

You won't pay every fee at once. Some costs are paid by your employer before you apply. Others are paid as you prepare and submit your visa application.

Typical AEWV application timeline

Step 1: Employer becomes accredited

Your employer must first become an accredited employer with Immigration New Zealand.

Step 2: Employer completes the Job Check

Your employer submits a Job Check to confirm the role meets Immigration New Zealand's requirements.

Step 3: Prepare your documents

Gather the documents you'll need for your application. This may include your passport, qualifications, work experience, police certificates and other supporting documents. Check our full list of documents for an AEWV application.

Step 4: Complete your IELTS and medical requirements (if required)

If your role requires proof of English language ability, book and complete your IELTS test. You should also complete your medical examination or chest X-ray if required.

Step 5: Submit your AEWV application and pay the visa fee

Once your documents are ready, you can submit your application online and pay the AEWV application fee.

Step 6: Wait for a decision

Immigration New Zealand will assess your application. If they need more information, they'll contact you before making a decision.

Besides the main visa fees, you may have a few extra expenses. These costs don't apply to everyone. But it's a good idea to include them in your budget.

You may also need to pay for:

• Document translations

• Certified copies

• Courier or postage fees (if required)

• Travel to your medical appointment (if applicable)

• Passport renewal (if required)

Not sure what you'll need to pay for? IDP can help you understand the fees, documents and other expenses you may need to budget for before you apply.

Some costs are fixed. But careful planning can help you avoid extra expenses. It can also reduce delays with your application.

Here are a few ways to save time and money:

• Prepare your documents carefully before you apply.

• Make sure your employer's Job Check has been approved.

• Book IELTS early if you'll need an English test.

• Check whether you need IELTS before booking.

• Get expert guidance if you're unsure about your requirements.

Applying for an AEWV is about more than paying visa fees.

You'll also need to understand the requirements, prepare the right documents and plan your next steps.

With IDP, you can:

• Understand which fees apply to your situation.

• Prepare and book IELTS if you need it.

• Access free IELTS preparation materials.

• Plan your pathway to working and living in New Zealand.

How much does an AEWV cost in total?

Most applicants should budget for the NZD $1,540 visa application fee plus any additional costs, such as IELTS, medical examinations and police certificates. Your total cost depends on your circumstances.

Does my employer pay my AEWV visa fee?

Usually, no. You'll normally pay your own visa application fee. Your employer is responsible for employer accreditation and Job Check fees.

Do I have to pay the Job Check fee?

No. The Job Check fee is paid by your employer.

Is IELTS included in the AEWV application fee?

No. If you need IELTS for your application, you'll need to book and pay for the test separately.

Are AEWV fees refundable?

The visa application fee is generally non-refundable if your application is declined. Some exceptions may apply in limited situations.

When do I pay the AEWV visa fee?

You'll pay the fee when you submit your application online.

Can my employer reimburse my visa costs?

Yes. Some employers choose to reimburse visa costs as part of an employment package. This is optional and should be agreed on with your employer.

How much should I budget before moving to New Zealand?

Besides your visa application fee, you may need to budget for IELTS, medical examinations, police certificates and document preparation. You should also consider travel and settlement costs after your visa is approved.