⚠️ Disclaimer: For general information only — not tax, financial, legal, or medical advice. Figures may be outdated or incorrect; tax rules change frequently. Verify important decisions with the CRA/IRS or a qualified professional (for health topics, a licensed healthcare provider). You use this information at your own risk.
The short answer
The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) is New Zealand's main temporary work visa. It runs on a strict three-step sequence: the employer gets accredited, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) approves a Job Check for the role, and only then do you apply for the visa.
Step 1 — Employer accreditation
Your prospective employer must be accredited by INZ. No accreditation, no AEWV — check this before you sign anything.
Step 2 — Job Check
INZ approves the specific job. It must be full-time (at least 30 hours a week) and paid at least the NZ minimum wage and the NZ market rate for the role.
Step 3 — You apply for the AEWV
With the job offer and the Job Check, you apply. As the worker you must have at least 2 years of relevant work experience OR a relevant qualification at NZQCF level 4 or higher. For ANZSCO skill level 3–5 jobs you must also meet an English language requirement.
The pay rule since 10 March 2025
There is no longer a blanket median-wage threshold. Employers must pay at least the NZ minimum wage (NZ$23.50/hour from 1 April 2025) and the NZ market rate for the occupation.
How long you can stay — and the 12-month stand-down
Maximum continuous stay on AEWVs: 5 years for ANZSCO skill level 1–3 jobs, 3 years for level 4–5 jobs. Once you reach the limit, you must spend 12 months outside New Zealand before you can be granted a new AEWV.
The big catch: you are tied to one employer
Your visa is linked to a specific employer, occupation, and location. If you lose the job — or want to change employers — you generally need a new Job Check and a new AEWV application.
Frequently asked questions
Does the AEWV lead to residence?
It can. AEWV work counts as NZ skilled work experience toward the 6 points needed for the Skilled Migrant Category, and Green List roles have dedicated residence pathways.
What if my employer loses accreditation?
Your visa conditions are affected. You will generally need a new accredited employer, a new Job Check, and a new visa application.
Can I bring my family?
Partners and children may be eligible for visas based on your AEWV, but the exact work and study rights depend on current INZ settings — check immigration.govt.nz for your situation.
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