Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) — New Zealand

Is the Accredited Employer Work Visa Right for You?

If you have been offered a full-time job by an accredited employer in New Zealand, the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) might be your gateway to work in this vibrant country. This visa is designed for individuals who not only have a job offer but also meet specific work experience or qualification requirements. Moreover, it could potentially pave the way to residency in New Zealand, providing a long-term pathway for those seeking to establish a life in this beautiful nation.

Eligibility: What You Need to Know

Before applying for the AEWV, you should confirm that you have a legitimate job offer from an accredited employer. To be considered, your job must align with your work experience and qualifications. Additionally, if your job is categorized under the ANZSCO skill level 4 or 5 list, you must demonstrate English language proficiency unless exempt. Another consideration is that if you've previously stayed in New Zealand on a similar visa, you must have spent the required time outside the country before reapplying.

Changing Your Circumstances

This guide is particularly useful if you're contemplating a change in your employment situation while under the AEWV. Should you decide to switch your employer, job, or location, you will need to apply to vary the conditions of your visa or submit a new application. This flexibility ensures that your visa remains valid and aligned with your current employment status.

Next Steps and Additional Resources

If you're ready to take the next step in your New Zealand journey, begin by gathering the required documents, such as your job offer and evidence of qualifications. For further information, you might find our Documents Checklist and How To Apply guides useful. Additionally, for those considering residency, the PR Pathway Guide provides insights into transitioning from a work visa to permanent residency.

What is the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)?

The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) is a pathway for individuals who have secured a job offer from an accredited employer in New Zealand. This visa type is designed to fill labor shortages and support New Zealand’s economy by allowing skilled workers to participate in the workforce. It not only allows you to work in New Zealand but also serves as a potential stepping stone to residency.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the AEWV, you must fulfill several key requirements:

• Job Offer: You need a full-time job offer from an employer accredited by Immigration New Zealand (INZ).
• Work Experience and Qualifications: Depending on your job, you may need to demonstrate relevant work experience or qualifications. Gather documents such as evidence of your work experience, skills, and any additional qualifications or certifications specific to your role.
• English Language Proficiency: If your job falls under the ANZSCO skill levels 4 or 5 and is not exempt, you must prove your ability to speak and understand English.
• Time Outside New Zealand: If you have previously stayed in New Zealand for the maximum duration allowed under an AEWV, you may need to spend a required amount of time outside the country before applying again.

Application Process

Here's a step-by-step guide to applying for the AEWV:

1. Receive a Job Offer: Ensure your job offer includes details of your employer's accreditation status.
2. Gather Required Documents: This includes your job offer, employment agreement, job description, and proof of qualifications and experience. Refer to the Documents Checklist for complete details.
3. Online Application Link: Your employer will provide you with a link to the online application form. Use this link to start your application process.
4. Submit Your Application: Complete the online application and pay the fee. The exact fee amount is not specified here, so verify the fee on the official website.
5. Wait for a Decision: You can check the status of your application online. Processing times can vary, so consult the Processing Times guide for more information.

Can You Change Employers?

Changing employers, jobs, or locations while on an AEWV requires you to either:

• Apply to Vary the Conditions: You may need to apply to adjust the conditions of your existing visa if you wish to change your employer, job, location, or a combination of these.
• Apply for a Job Change: This might be necessary if the changes in your employment situation are significant.
• Apply for a New Visa: In some cases, it may be more appropriate to apply for a new visa altogether.

Supporting Documents

Ensure you have all necessary documents ready for your application. These include:

• Signed Job Offer: A signed copy of your New Zealand job offer.
• Proof of Work Experience: This could be in the form of employment certificates or a work book.
• Police Certificates: These are required to prove your good character and may need to be translated into English if not already.
• Medical Information: INZ may request medical information during the assessment of your application.

The Accredited Employer Work Visa is a critical tool for skilled workers aiming to contribute to New Zealand's economy while providing opportunities for potential residency pathways. For detailed steps on how to apply, check out the How To Apply guide.

Who Qualifies for the AEWV?

To be eligible for the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) in New Zealand, you must meet several specific criteria:

• Job Offer: You must have a full-time job offer from an accredited employer in New Zealand.
• Employer Accreditation: Your prospective employer must be accredited by Immigration New Zealand (INZ).
• English Language Requirements: If your job falls under the ANZSCO skill level 4 or 5 list and is not exempt, you must demonstrate your ability to speak and understand English.

For more details on specific job requirements, you can explore the Skilled Migrant visa page, which may provide additional insights into skills and qualifications necessary for skilled work in New Zealand.

Key Requirements for the AEWV

To apply for the AEWV, you need to gather certain documents and meet specific conditions:

• Job Offer Documentation:

  • A signed copy of your New Zealand job offer.
  • Details of the job offer, including the employment agreement and job description.

• Work Experience and Qualifications:

  • Evidence of your work experience relevant to the job.
  • Qualifications or certifications related to the role.
  • If applicable, a work book or similar documentation to verify your work history.

• Character and Health Requirements:

  • Police certificates as proof of good character. If a certificate is not in English, provide a certified translation.
  • Any required medical information will be reviewed during the application process.

• Additional Documentation:

  • If you have a passport from Hong Kong, Macao, or similar, a completed supplementary form may be necessary.

For a comprehensive list of documents, refer to the Documents Checklist.

Can You Change Employers?

If your situation changes, such as wanting to change your employer, job, or location, you must apply for a variation of your visa conditions or a new visa. This process ensures that all employment stays within the guidelines of the AEWV.

Prerequisites Before Applying

Before you can lodge an application for the AEWV, ensure you have:

• Spent the required time outside New Zealand if you previously held an AEWV and reached the maximum stay duration.
• Received a link to the online application form from your prospective employer, necessary for starting the application process.

For guidance on how to proceed with your application, visit the How To Apply page.

By meeting these eligibility criteria and requirements, you can position yourself effectively to apply for the AEWV and work towards potential residency in New Zealand.

How to Apply for the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)

The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) is designed for individuals with a job offer from an accredited employer in New Zealand. This visa allows you to work in New Zealand and can potentially lead to residency. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the application process.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Receive a Job Offer

   • Before applying, ensure you have a full-time job offer from a New Zealand employer accredited by Immigration New Zealand (INZ).
   • The job offer should include details of the role, employment agreement, and job description.

2. Gather Required Documents

   • Collect all necessary documents, such as:
     • A signed copy of your job offer and employment agreement.
     • Evidence of your work experience and qualifications.
     • Proof of English language ability, if required, based on your job's ANZSCO skill level.
     • Police certificates if applicable, along with translations if not in English.
     • Any additional certifications or qualifications specific to your role.

   For a detailed checklist, you can refer to the Documents Checklist.

3. Receive the Application Link

   • Your employer will send you a link to the online application form. This link is crucial as it directs you to the specific application portal for your visa.

4. Complete the Online Application

   • Follow the instructions provided in the email link to complete your application online.
   • Ensure that all information is accurate and complete to avoid delays or rejections.
   • You will need to pay the visa application fee during this step. The fee must be paid online as instructed in the application portal.

5. Submit Your Application

   • Once your application is completed and the fee is paid, submit it through the online platform.
   • Keep a copy of your submission confirmation for your records.

6. Check Application Status

   • After submission, regularly log in to your account to check the status of your application. You can do this by visiting the Processing Times page for the most current updates.

7. Wait for a Decision

   • Processing times for the AEWV can vary. As of February 2026, the processing time is typically 3 to 4 weeks, but this can change. Verify the current processing times on the official website.

Can You Change Employers?

If you wish to change your employer, job, or location after obtaining the AEWV, you must either apply to vary the conditions of your visa or apply for a new visa entirely. This is essential to ensure your visa remains valid under the new circumstances.

What to Do If Your Situation Changes?

• If there's any change in your employment status or personal circumstances, you must notify INZ immediately.
• Depending on the changes, you may need to provide additional documentation or apply for a different visa category.

Additional Considerations

• Ensure that the employment agreement complies with New Zealand employment law.
• Providing complete and verifiable documentation is crucial for a successful application.
• Note that applying for an AEWV does not guarantee approval. All applications are subject to evaluation by INZ.

For more guidance on your work visa journey, explore related options such as the Skilled Migrant and Post Study Work visas to understand various pathways to working in New Zealand.

What Are the Costs and Timeline for the AEWV?

When you apply for the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV), it's important to understand the associated costs and the expected processing times. This visa is specifically for those who have a job offer from an accredited employer in New Zealand, allowing you to work and potentially lead to residency.

Cost and Processing Time Overview

Below is a comparison of the relevant details for the AEWV. Note that specific costs are not provided in the official data, so you'll need to verify these on the official website.

What to Expect After Applying

1. Gather Required Documents: Ensure you have all necessary documents, including a signed job offer, evidence of work experience, and proof of English language ability if required. For a comprehensive list, refer to the Documents Checklist.

2. Application Submission: Follow the link sent by your employer to submit your application and complete the process online.

3. Processing Time: Typically, the processing time is between 3 to 4 weeks for the AEWV under "Visitor and Short-term" categories as of February 2026. However, this can vary based on the category and location, so it's advisable to verify current processing times with Immigration New Zealand (INZ).

4. Follow-Up: After submission, you can log into your account to check the status of your application and wait for a decision.

Can You Change Employers?

If your situation changes and you wish to change your employer, job, or location, you must apply to vary the conditions of your visa. This could involve applying for a Job Change or a new visa. For more information on your options, explore the Visa Extension Guide.

Understanding these details helps you navigate the application process more effectively and prepares you for the next steps in your move to New Zealand. Always consult the latest resources and guidelines from Immigration New Zealand to ensure accuracy.

Preparing Your Application

• Gather All Necessary Documents: Make sure you have a comprehensive set of documents ready before you start your application. This includes your job offer, employment agreement, job description, and evidence of qualifications and work experience.

• Check English Language Requirements: If your job is on the ANZSCO skill level 4 or 5 list and not exempt, you'll need to demonstrate your English language proficiency. Ensure you have the necessary proof, such as test results or other acceptable evidence.

• Understand Work Experience Requirements: Confirm that you meet the work experience and/or qualification requirements specific to your job. Gather all evidence, such as employment certificates and relevant qualifications, well in advance.

For more guidance on preparing documents, see the Documents Checklist.

Navigating Employer and Job Changes

• Changing Employers or Jobs: If you wish to change your employer, job, or location, it's crucial to apply to vary the conditions of your visa, apply for a Job Change, or lodge an application for a new visa. This ensures your stay in New Zealand remains compliant with visa regulations.

• Employer Accreditation: Verify that your employer is accredited before accepting a job offer. This is a fundamental requirement for the AEWV.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Incomplete or Unverifiable Employment Certificates: Ensure all employment certificates are complete, accurate, and verifiable. Missing or incorrect information can delay or negatively affect your application.

• Non-compliance with Employment Law: Submitting an employment agreement that does not adhere to New Zealand employment law can lead to application issues. Review all agreements for compliance.

• Missing Police Certificates: If required, include police certificates in your application. If these certificates are not in English, provide certified translations.

Explore more about maintaining compliance in the Visa Refusal Reasons guide.

Understanding Processing Times

• Processing Timeframes: Processing times for the AEWV can vary based on category and location. As of 2026, visitor and short-term visa processing takes approximately 3 to 4 weeks. Always verify the most current processing times on the official website or with Immigration New Zealand.

• Checking Application Status: After submitting your application, you can check its status online. Regularly logging in to your account will keep you updated on any developments.

For further details on how applications are processed, visit the Processing Times guide.

By following these tips and best practices, you can enhance the likelihood of a successful application for the Accredited Employer Work Visa in New Zealand.

Misunderstanding Eligibility Criteria

• Job Offer Requirements: One common mistake is not understanding that you must have an offer of full-time work from an accredited employer in New Zealand. Ensure your job offer details match this requirement, including employer accreditation.
• Work Experience and Qualifications: Applicants often overlook the need to meet specific work experience and/or qualification requirements for their job role. Gather comprehensive evidence of your previous work experience and qualifications early on.

Documentation Errors

• Incomplete or Unverifiable Documents: Submitting incomplete employment certificates or documents that cannot be verified can delay your application. Provide thorough and clear evidence of your work experience, skills, and qualifications.
• English Language Proof: If your job is on the ANZSCO skill level 4 or 5 list and not exempt, you must demonstrate English proficiency. Failing to provide this when required is a common oversight.
• Police Certificates: Not providing police certificates when required, or submitting ones that are not translated into English, can cause delays. If a police certificate is in another language, always include an English translation.

Application Process Mistakes

• Job and Employer Changes: If your situation changes and you want to change your employer, job, or location, you must apply to vary the conditions of your visa or apply for a Job Change. Failing to do so can lead to visa non-compliance issues.
• Submitting Incorrect Employment Agreements: Ensure that your employment agreement meets New Zealand employment law standards. Submitting agreements that do not comply can lead to application rejection.

Can You Change Employers?

If your circumstances change and you wish to switch employers or job roles, you must apply to vary the conditions of your visa or submit a new visa application. It's crucial to adhere to this process to maintain your eligibility to work in New Zealand. For more information on this process, you might find the How To Apply guide useful.

For further guidance on the Accredited Employer Work Visa, consider exploring related visa options such as the Skilled Migrant and Essential Skills visas. These can provide additional pathways to working and living in New Zealand.

Real-Life Scenarios of Navigating the AEWV

Navigating the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) can be straightforward once you understand the key requirements and scenarios that applicants typically face. Imagine you have received a job offer from a New Zealand company that is an accredited employer. This is your golden ticket to apply for the AEWV, allowing you to work in New Zealand and potentially open pathways to residency. You must ensure that your job offer is for full-time employment and that you meet the specific work experience and qualification requirements for your role.

Meeting Language and Work Experience Requirements

Consider a scenario where your job is classified under the ANZSCO skill level 4 or 5 list, and you're not exempt from the English language requirement. In this case, you must demonstrate your ability to speak and understand English. If you have prior work experience in a European country but aren't a citizen of a Schengen member state, it’s crucial to provide evidence of your right to work in that country. Additionally, you will need to gather documentation such as your work book to verify your experience and qualifications.

Changing Your Job or Employer

What if your circumstances change after you’ve received your AEWV? Perhaps you want to change your employer, job, or even the location of your employment. In such scenarios, you must apply to vary the conditions of your visa or apply for a new Job Change. This ensures that you stay compliant with New Zealand immigration policies while continuing your employment in the country. For more guidance on work-related visas, check the Specific Purpose Work page on our website.

Avoiding Common Pitfalls

It's important to be aware of common pitfalls that could delay your application. For example, failing to provide police certificates when required or submitting employment agreements that don't meet New Zealand employment law standards can hinder your application process. If you require more detailed information about potential reasons for visa refusal, refer to our Visa Refusal Reasons guide. Understanding these scenarios and preparing accordingly can make your AEWV journey smoother and more successful.