New Zealand work visas
Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)
The Accredited Employer Work Visa is a temporary work visa for an eligible job with an accredited New Zealand employer. It is not an open work visa and does not automatically lead to residence.
Enquire About a New Zealand Work Visa
Employer accreditation, the approved Job Check, the employment terms and your ability to perform the work all need to align. A genuine offer is essential; paying for a job offer is not an acceptable pathway.
How the application fits together
The employer completes the relevant accreditation and Job Check steps, then provides the worker with the application link. The worker makes their own visa application and supplies evidence of eligibility.
The offer must normally provide at least 30 hours of work each week. Immigration New Zealand also considers the occupation, pay, skills, qualifications, any required registration, health and character. English requirements depend on the applicable occupation settings and exemptions.
Prepare evidence that can be checked
Put together the signed offer, employment agreement, job description and reliable evidence of your background. Employment dates, hours and duties should be consistent across the documents. A CV is a useful summary, but it is not a substitute for independent evidence of work experience.
Before gathering documents, make a simple list of what you already have and what you need to obtain from past employers, education providers or registration bodies. Do not alter documents to fit a role description.
Understand work, family and residence conditions
Your visa is linked to the authorised employment. Changing the employer, role or work location can require a Job Change, a variation of conditions or a new visa. Check approval requirements before starting different work.
Your partner and dependent children are not included in your AEWV application. Separate family visas may be available, depending on the applicable support rules. A future resident visa is also a separate application.
Compare Skilled Migrant Category residence, Straight to Residence and Green List Work to Residence rather than assuming any period on an AEWV will qualify.
Frequently asked questions
Does an accredited employer guarantee my visa?
No. Accreditation concerns the employer. Your application and the offered employment still need to satisfy the visa requirements.
Is every AEWV issued for five years?
No. The available length and maximum continuous stay depend on your circumstances, occupation and the rules applying to your visa. Read the period stated in your own eVisa.
Can Visa Consult find me a job?
This page explains immigration pathways, not a job-placement service. Do not treat a visa enquiry as a promise of employment or sponsorship.
Your next step
For an initial enquiry, provide your occupation, current location, whether you have an offer and any visa expiry date. Do not send sensitive documents at this stage. Personalised advice requires a licensed New Zealand immigration adviser or a legally exempt person.
General information checked 18 September 2026. Official sources: INZ: Accredited Employer Work Visa and IAA: who can give advice. Requirements and processing times can change; no outcome is guaranteed.