Accredited Employer Work Visa
What Is the Accredited Employer Work Visa?
The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) is New Zealand's main temporary work visa. It lets you work full-time for an accredited New Zealand employer for up to 5 years, and can lead to residence. To get one you need a job offer from an accredited employer, the skills or experience the role requires, and you must meet health, character and (for most roles) English language requirements.
At IMMagine Immigration, our fully licensed immigration advisers manage the entire AEWV process — for both employers seeking accreditation and workers applying for their visa. This page explains exactly how the AEWV works in 2026, what it costs, how long it takes, and how we help. Not sure if you qualify? Start with a free eligibility evaluation.
Need help with your NZ Work Visa?
IMMagine Immigration offers a range of immigration services, including assistance with work visa applications.
Accredited Employer Work Visa Features (Updated June 2026)
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Visa type | Temporary work visa |
| Maximum stay | Up to 5 years (3 years for lower-skilled ANZSCO level 4–5 roles) |
| Minimum hours | Full-time — at least 30 hours per week |
| Worker application fee | From NZD $1,540 |
| Processing time | 80% decided within around 5.5 weeks |
| Path to residence | Yes — via Skilled Migrant Category, Green List or sector agreements |
| Bring family | Yes — partner and dependent children, if income thresholds are met |
The 3-Step AEWV Process
The AEWV works like a chain — each step must be approved before the next can begin.
Step 1 — Employer Accreditation The New Zealand business applies to Immigration New Zealand (INZ) to become an accredited employer, proving it is genuine, financially viable and compliant with employment law. (Employers: see our Employer Services.)
Step 2 — Job Check The accredited employer applies for a Job Check to confirm the specific role meets AEWV rules, pays at least the market rate, and (for many roles) has been advertised to New Zealanders first.
Step 3 — Work Visa Application Once the Job Check is approved, the employer sends the worker a unique link to apply online. The worker submits their AEWV application with evidence of skills, health and character.
AEWV Eligibility & Requirements (for Workers)
To be granted an AEWV you must:
- Have a full-time job offer (30+ hours/week) from an accredited employer with an approved Job Check
- Meet the skills, qualifications or work experience the role requires (most roles require relevant experience or a qualification — see our guide to ANZSCO and the skilled occupation list)
- Be paid at least the New Zealand minimum wage of NZD $23.50 per hour — there is no longer a median wage requirement
- Meet English language requirements if your role is ANZSCO/NOL skill level 3, 4 or 5 (current baseline: IELTS 4.0 or equivalent)
- Meet health requirements (medical and/or chest X-ray, depending on country and length of stay — some applicants may need a medical waiver)
- Meet character requirements (police certificates are required for stays of 24 months or more)
Lower-skilled (level 4–5) roles carry extra conditions and a shorter stay.
Need help with your NZ Work Visa?
IMMagine Immigration offers a range of immigration services, including assistance with work visa applications.
How Much Does the AEWV Cost?
Employer costs
| Item | Fee (NZD) |
|---|---|
| Standard accreditation (up to 5 migrants) | $775 |
| High-volume accreditation (6+ migrants) | $1,280 |
| Triangular employer accreditation | $4,060 |
| Job Check | $735 |
Worker costs
| Item | Fee (NZD) |
|---|---|
| AEWV application fee | From $1,540 |
| Immigration levy (IVL, where applicable) | ~$100 |
| Medical, police certificates, English test, translations | Variable (third-party) |
Fees are non-refundable, even if an application is declined — one reason expert preparation matters. See the top 10 reasons NZ visas are declined.
Processing Time & How Long Can You Stay?
Processing: INZ decides 80% of AEWV applications within around 5.5 weeks; timeframes vary by role complexity and document readiness.
Length of stay:
- Up to 5 years for higher-skilled roles (ANZSCO levels 1–3)
- Up to 3 years for lower-skilled roles (ANZSCO levels 4–5), unless the role is on the Green List or pays well above the median wage
Once you hit your maximum continuous stay, you must spend 12 consecutive months outside New Zealand before another AEWV — unless you secure residence first.
AEWV Pathway to Residence
The AEWV is the main "gateway" toward permanent residence. Common pathways:
- Green List — fast-tracked residence for in-demand roles (healthcare, engineering, trades)
- Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) — points-based residence (check yours with the SMC Points Calculator)
- Work to Residence and sector agreements for eligible care and transport workers
See the full map of residence pathways for skilled migrants.
Need help with your NZ Work Visa?
IMMagine Immigration offers a range of immigration services, including assistance with work visa applications.
Step by Step
Our Process
1. Free Eligibility Check
Complete our short questionnaire and attach your resume (or provide a summary of qualifications and work experience).
Within 48 working hours, we will provide a free written assessment of Visa options.
2. Online Consultation
Book a 75–90 minute paid online consultation to explore your visa options and get answers to all your questions.
3. Visa Application
Once you decide to proceed, we will handle the preparation and processing of your visa application.
FAQs
Browse our FAQs for Answers
Need Help With Your NZ Work Visa?
IMMagine Immigration offers a range of immigration services, including assistance with NZ work visas. Contact us today!
