If you’re planning to live and work in New Zealand, the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) is one of the most common and efficient ways to get started. This visa allows you to work for a New Zealand employer who has been officially accredited by Immigration New Zealand (INZ).
In this blog, we’ll break down exactly what the AEWV is, who it’s for, and how you can apply in 2025 — step by step.
🛠️ What is the AEWV?
The Accredited Employer Work Visa lets overseas workers come to New Zealand and work for an accredited employer who offers them a full-time job. It replaced several older visa types and is now the main work visa pathway.
👤 Who Can Apply?
You can apply for the AEWV if:
- You have a job offer from an accredited employer in New Zealand
- The job pays at least the median wage (currently NZD $29.66/hour as of 2025)
- You meet the health, character, and skill requirements
🧾 Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Find a Job with an Accredited Employer
You need a valid job offer from a New Zealand company that is accredited. Look for jobs on:
- Seek
- Trade Me Jobs
- Work Here NZ
- Your employer must offer a full-time role for at least 30 hours/week.
✅ Tip: Ask the employer to confirm their accreditation before proceeding.
Step 2: Employer Completes a Job Check
Before you apply for the visa, your employer must:
- Submit a Job Check application to Immigration NZ
- Prove that no suitable New Zealanders are available
- Provide job details including duties, pay, and qualifications
🕓 This usually takes 10–30 working days.
Step 3: Receive a Job Offer
Once the Job Check is approved:
- You will receive a formal job offer
- You may also get an employment agreement, and a job token/reference ID (needed for your visa application)
Step 4: Apply for the AEWV
Now it’s your turn! You will submit your application online via Immigration NZ, including:
- Your passport and ID
- Your job token/reference ID
- Proof of qualifications and work experience
- Police and medical certificates (if required)
- Proof of English skills (some jobs may require this)
💳 Application fee: Around NZD $750
🕓 Processing time: Usually 20–40 days
Step 5: Wait for Visa Approval
If everything is okay, you’ll receive your Accredited Employer Work Visa, usually valid for up to 3 years.
🔄 Can You Change Jobs on an AEWV?
Yes, but:
- Your new employer must also be accredited
- You must apply for a variation of conditions or a new AEWV
🏡 Can the AEWV Lead to Residency?
Yes! If your job is on the Green List, or if you meet certain income and skill thresholds, you may be eligible to apply for a residency pathway after 2 years (or even faster in some cases).
👨👩👧 Can You Bring Your Family?
Yes! You can apply for a partner and dependent child visa alongside or after your AEWV. Your partner may be allowed to work too.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying before your employer completes the Job Check
- Working for a non-accredited employer
- Providing incomplete documents
- Not meeting the minimum wage requirement
💡 Final Tips
- Use licensed immigration advisers if unsure
- Always verify your employer’s accreditation status
- Apply early — visa processing can take time
- Check your email regularly for updates from Immigration NZ
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