How to Apply for an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) in New Zealand 2026

Getting a job in New Zealand is exciting. But turning that job into a visa can feel confusing. The good news is, the Accredited Employer Work Visa is more straightforward than most people think.

This guide shows you exactly how to apply in 2026, step by step.

AEWV visa update:

From 1 June 2026, some workers applying for an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) may now need to show English proof for Skill Level 3 jobs under New Zealand’s NOL and ANZSCO occupation systems.

Know more about this update.

The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) is New Zealand’s main employer-sponsored work visa. It lets you work full-time for an approved (accredited) employer in a specific role. To get it, your employer must pass a job check and offer you a job that meets skill, pay, and market requirements.

What is an accredited employer? 

An accredited employer is a business approved by Immigration New Zealand (INZ) to hire skilled migrant workers. These employers can hire skilled migrant workers when there is not enough local talent to fill industries facing skill shortages.

If your job is in demand and meets the right conditions, this visa could also be your stepping stone to permanent residency.

You apply for an AEWV online, but your employer must complete key steps first.

Before you can submit your visa application, your employer needs to be approved, and your job must be verified by Immigration New Zealand. Once those are done, you can apply with your documents.

Step 1: Get a job offer from an accredited employer

You must have a full-time job offer from an employer approved by Immigration New Zealand.

This job must meet pay, skill, and market rate requirements. If your employer is not accredited yet, they need to apply first before hiring you.

Step 2: Employer completes a job check

Your employer must prove that the job is genuine and that no suitable local worker is available (if required).

This is called a job check. Once approved, your employer will receive a job token that you will use in your application.

Step 3: Prepare your documents

You need to gather all required documents before applying.

This includes your passport, job documents, proof of skills, and any required proof of English proficiency, medical, or police certificates.

Make sure everything is clear, complete, and matches your job details.

Check the full AEWV document checklist

Note: You may be excempt from the English proficiency requirement for AEWV, depending on your job's skill level, qualification, or citizenship.

Check whether your job skill level needs an English test.

Step 4: Submit your AEWV application online

You apply online through Immigration New Zealand.

You will:

• Fill out your application form

• Upload your documents

• Enter your job token

• Pay the application fee

Step 5: Wait for a decision (and respond if needed)

Immigration New Zealand will assess your application.

They may contact you for more information, such as additional documents or clarification. Respond quickly to avoid delays.

Step 6: Get your visa and start working

If your application is approved, you will receive your AEWV.

You can then:

• Start working for your approved employer

• Stay in New Zealand for the duration of your visa

• Begin planning your next step, such as extending your visa or moving toward residence

Experience a Stress-Free AEWV Application

Visa applications can be stressful.

What requirements do you need? When you have them, are they even the right ones? How do you increase your chances of approval?

There are too many questions to consider! And you can't risk a single thing unclear.

Sometimes, it can also be stressful searching for answers on the internet because visa rules always change. The information you find online may not always be up-to-date or accurate.

The best solution? Talk to a migration expert.

50+ years of migration expertise

At IDP, our migration experts have helped thousands of international students secure visas and PR pathways, and we've been doing it for 50+ years.

We also have strong relationships with immigration authorities and institutions across New Zealand, so you’ll be assured that your application is in trusted hands.

We’ll guide you step-by-step, double-check your documents, and ensure everything meets the visa requirements. Chat with our visa experts today.

Now that you know how to apply for an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV), the big question is: How do you find an employer who can sponsor you? Unlike finding a casual student job, this requires a bit more strategy.  

Check the official accredited employer list

Think of this as the VIP list for AEWV sponsors. Immigration New Zealand (INZ) keeps a regularly updated list of employers approved to hire migrant workers. If they’re not on this list, they can’t sponsor your AEWV—simple as that. You can find this golden ticket on the INZ website (and yes, it’s more reliable than that random guy in a Facebook group offering "guaranteed" visas).

Look for job ads that mention visa sponsorship

When browsing job sites, keep an eye out for keywords like “Accredited Employer,” “Work Visa Available,” or “Visa Sponsorship Provided.” If an employer is willing to sponsor your visa, they’ll usually shout about it in the job listing. 

Websites like Seek, Trade Me Jobs, and Indeed NZ are your best friends here. (Pro tip: set up job alerts so you don’t miss new openings while binge-watching Netflix.)

Contact recruitment agencies

Recruitment agencies can be lifesavers—think of them as the matchmakers of the job market. Some agencies specialise in hiring skilled migrant workers and work directly with accredited employers. They do the hard work of connecting you with companies looking for people like you. This means less time scrolling through job ads and more time mentally decorating your future apartment in New Zealand.

Network Like Your Future Depends on It (Because It Kind of Does)

Not every job is posted online. Some employers prefer word-of-mouth referrals, so networking can be a game-changer.

• Join industry events (yes, even the awkward ones with stale snacks).

• Connect with professionals on LinkedIn—slide into those DMs professionally. Or maybe click those clap reactions to their posts like an active fan. 

• Reach out directly to employers with a simple intro message. You never know! A casual chat today could lead to a job offer tomorrow.

Finding the right employer might take time, but with the right strategy, persistence, and a sprinkle of networking magic, you’ll increase your chances of landing that dream job (and visa).

Now, let’s talk about how long you can actually stay on an AEWV.

How Long Can You Stay on an Accredited Employer Work Visa?

So, you’ve secured a job with an accredited employer and submitted your AEWV application, and now you’re wondering—how long can you stay in New Zealand? 

The answer depends on your ANZSCO skill level and job classification.

Higher-skilled jobs (ANZSCO Levels 1-3): Up to 5 years

If your job falls under ANZSCO Levels 1-3, you may be eligible for a work visa of up to five years. These roles are typically in industries that require specialized skills, qualifications, or extensive experience, such as IT, engineering, and healthcare.

Lower-skilled jobs (ANZSCO Levels 4-5): Now extended to 3 years

Previously, lower-skilled jobs had shorter visa durations, but as of March 2025, AEWV holders in ANZSCO Level 4 & 5 roles can now stay for up to three years. This change gives workers in sectors like hospitality, construction, and aged care more stability and a longer pathway to employment in New Zealand.

What happens when your AEWV expires?

Your work visa isn’t the end of the road—it’s just the beginning. Once your AEWV reaches its expiry date, you have a few options:

• Apply for a new AEWV – If you get a new job offer from another accredited employer, you can apply for a fresh AEWV.

• Explore residency pathways – Some AEWV holders may qualify for New Zealand residency, depending on their job, salary, and industry.

• Switch to another visa – If you want to continue living in New Zealand but your AEWV doesn’t lead to residency, you can explore other visa options, like a student visa for further studies or a partner visa, if applicable.

Your AEWV is a stepping stone—whether it leads to a long-term career in New Zealand or new opportunities elsewhere, it’s up to you to make the most of it. 

But what if you already have an AEWV? 

Let’s look at what changes for existing visa holders under the 2025 updates.

What Changes If You Have an Existing AEWV?

Already have an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)? You might be wondering how the March 2025 changes will affect you. 

The good news? 

If you’re currently on an AEWV, your existing visa conditions remain the same until renewal. 

But if you’re planning to extend your stay or apply for a new AEWV, here’s what you need to know.

Your current visa conditions stay the same

If you already hold an AEWV, the rules that applied when you were approved still apply—you don’t suddenly have to meet new wage or job classification requirements. Your employer must still be accredited, and your visa remains valid until its expiry date.

New rules apply if you apply for another AEWV after March 10, 2025

Thinking about extending your stay? If you apply for a new AEWV after this date, you’ll need to follow the updated visa conditions. This includes:

• No median wage requirement – Your salary just needs to match the market rate and meet the minimum wage.

• Revised job classifications – Some roles will now be higher-skilled, which could mean better visa conditions.

• Extended visa durations for lower-skilled jobs – If your job is ANZSCO Level 4 or 5, you may qualify for a three-year AEWV instead of a shorter stay.

If your AEWV is expiring soon, check your options

Not sure what to do next? If your visa is nearing expiry, get in touch with migration experts at IDP to understand how the 2025 changes impact your situation. Depending on your role and future plans, you may be able to:

• Renew your AEWV with your current employer

• Apply for a new AEWV with a different accredited employer

• Explore residency options or other visa pathways

Staying ahead of these changes will help you plan your next steps without last-minute surprises. 

Navigating visa updates can be confusing, especially when planning your next steps under the new AEWV rules.

What if your role now falls under a new classification?

How do you ensure your application meets the updated requirements?

This is where expert support can make all the difference. At IDP, we take the guesswork out of the process.

From understanding the latest changes to preparing a foolproof application, our visa experts have your back.

We’ll guide you through your options, whether it’s renewing your AEWV, switching employers, or exploring pathways to residency.

Talk to our migration agents today!

Visa processing isn’t exactly a same-day delivery service. The time it takes to get your Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) approved depends on several factors.

How long does it usually take?

Most AEWV applications are processed within a few weeks to several months. If your employer is already accredited, things move faster. If there’s a backlog of applications (which happens often), you might be waiting a little longer.

What speeds up the process?

To get your AEWV approved as quickly as possible, make sure:

• Your employer is accredited – If their accreditation is still pending, your application can’t be processed.

• All required documents are submitted correctly – A missing document can add weeks of delay.

• Your job meets visa requirements – If Immigration New Zealand (INZ) needs extra verification, expect additional processing time.

What can slow things down?

• High application volumes – If more people are applying, INZ takes longer to process visas.

• Incomplete applications – Forget to attach a key document? You’ll be stuck waiting for INZ to request more info.

• Extra verification checks – If INZ needs to confirm your work experience or employer details, expect delays.

Pro tip: Apply early!

If you’re planning your move to New Zealand, don’t wait until the last minute. Submitting a complete and correct application early reduces stress and prevents unnecessary delays.

Now that you know how long the AEWV can take, let’s tackle some common questions about this work visa.

Does the AEWV lead to residency in New Zealand?

The AEWV itself is not a direct pathway to residency, but it can be a stepping stone. If you secure a higher-skilled job (ANZSCO Level 1-3) and meet certain criteria, you may later qualify for a Skilled Migrant Category visa or other residency options. If long-term residency is your goal, check if your job aligns with New Zealand’s immigration pathways.

Can I switch employers while on an AEWV?

Yes, but there are conditions. If you want to change jobs, your new employer must also be accredited. You may also need to apply for a new AEWV. Before making the switch, confirm that your new role still meets Immigration New Zealand’s requirements—otherwise, you could risk losing your work visa.

What verifications can INZ do after they approve an employer’s first accreditation application?

Immigration New Zealand might check the employer’s documents from their office (this is called a desk check). But if needed, they might also visit the employer’s workplace or the job site where the worker is working.

That wraps up everything you need to know about the Accredited Employer Work Visa. Now, it’s time to take the next step toward working in New Zealand!

If you have more questions that we didn't cover in this guide, feel free to contact our migration experts at IDP. We stay up-to-date on AEWV updates and guidelines, helping you secure your application hassle-free.

Are you ready to start a successful career and unlock the chance to live permanently in New Zealand?

Getting your Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) might seem like a challenge, but with the right guidance, it’s a smooth path to building your career in New Zealand.

Don’t let confusion or uncertainty hold you back from achieving your dreams.

At IDP, we’re here to help every step of the way—from finding accredited employers to preparing a strong visa application.

Our visa experts simplify the process so you can focus on what matters most: your exciting future in New Zealand.

Book a consultation with us today and take the first step toward your new adventure!