Accredited Employer Work Visa

The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) is New Zealand's main work visa for skilled overseas workers. Unlike points-based or lottery systems, the AEWV is straightforward: if you have a genuine job offer from an employer who's been accredited by Immigration New Zealand, you can apply. Your employer handles the accreditation and job check steps, then sends you a link to complete your visa application.

The visa is valid for up to 5 years depending on your role, skill level, and pay rate. Most AEWV holders work in roles across tech, healthcare, engineering, construction, and hospitality, though the visa covers a wide range of occupations. Your pay must meet at least the NZ median wage (currently NZD $31.61/hour) for most roles, or the minimum wage for select lower-skilled positions.

Strategically, the AEWV is often the first step toward permanent residency. After gaining skilled work experience in New Zealand, many AEWV holders transition to the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa. Concord helps both employers and candidates navigate the three-stage process, accreditation, job check, and visa application, to minimise delays and get you working in New Zealand faster.

The AEWV is ideal for skilled professionals who've secured a job offer from a New Zealand employer. You're a strong candidate if you have relevant qualifications (level 4+ on the NZQCF) or equivalent work experience in the same field as your offered role. Tech workers, engineers, healthcare professionals, tradespeople, and hospitality managers are among the most common applicants.

It's also a great option for people already in New Zealand on a student or working holiday visa who've landed a role and want to stay longer term. If your goal is permanent residency, the AEWV gives you the New Zealand work experience you'll need to qualify for the Skilled Migrant Category down the track.