The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) is New Zealand's primary work visa pathway for skilled migrants with job offers. Introduced in 2022, the AEWV system fundamentally changed how migrant employment works in New Zealand by placing employer accountability at the heart of the process.
This guide provides a detailed breakdown of the AEWV system, helping both migrants and employers understand how to navigate this essential pathway successfully.
What is the AEWV?
The AEWV is a work visa that allows overseas workers to work for accredited New Zealand employers in approved roles. The key difference from previous work visa systems is the three-stage process that requires employer involvement before a migrant can apply.
The Three-Stage Process
- Employer Accreditation: The employer must first become accredited with Immigration New Zealand
- Job Check: The specific role must be approved, confirming no suitable New Zealanders are available
- Migrant Application: The worker then applies for their visa
This structure places responsibility on employers to demonstrate good workplace practices and genuine effort to hire locally first.
Stage 1: Employer Accreditation
Before hiring any migrant workers, New Zealand employers must obtain accreditation proving they meet required standards.
Types of Accreditation
Standard Accreditation
- Suitable for most employers
- Hiring up to 5 migrants simultaneously
- 12-month validity (first time)
- 24-month validity (renewal)
High-Volume Accreditation
- For employers hiring 6+ migrants
- Additional requirements around HR systems
- Settlement support obligations
- Enhanced record-keeping
Franchisee Accreditation
- Specific to franchise businesses
- Linked to franchisor standards
Accreditation Requirements
Employers must demonstrate:
- A genuine, operating business in New Zealand
- Good workplace practices and compliance history
- No exploitation of workers
- Commitment to employing New Zealanders where possible
- Adequate HR systems (high-volume)
Processing and Costs
Standard accreditation applications typically process in 10-15 working days. Fees range from NZ$740 (standard) to NZ$1,980 (high-volume).
Stage 2: Job Check
For each role an accredited employer wants to fill with a migrant worker, a Job Check application must be approved.
Purpose of Job Check
The Job Check process verifies:
- The role is genuine and sustainable
- Appropriate recruitment efforts to find New Zealanders
- Pay and conditions meet legal requirements
- Employment terms are genuine
Advertising Requirements
Employers must demonstrate they've genuinely tried to recruit locally:
- Advertising on appropriate platforms
- Reasonable advertising duration
- Response to applications from New Zealanders
- Evidence of why local candidates weren't suitable
Wage Requirements
The role must pay at or above the median wage (currently NZ$31.61/hour). Lower-paying roles face additional scrutiny and may require:
- Green List occupation status
- Sector agreement coverage
- Evidence of genuine skills shortage
Job Token
Approved Job Checks generate a Job Token—a unique code the migrant uses when applying for their AEWV. Job tokens are valid for 6 months.
Stage 3: Migrant Application
With employer accreditation and an approved Job Check in place, the migrant can apply for their AEWV.
Migrant Requirements
To qualify for an AEWV, migrants need:
Job Offer
- From accredited employer with approved Job Check
- Genuine employment arrangement
- Conditions matching the Job Check
Skills and Qualifications
- Relevant skills, qualifications, or experience
- Ability to perform the role competently
- Qualifications assessment (some occupations)
Immigration Requirements
- Good health (medical examination)
- Good character (police certificates)
- Genuine intent to work in New Zealand
- Valid passport
Application Documents
Standard documentation includes:
- Passport (6+ months validity)
- Job offer letter
- Job Token number
- Qualifications evidence
- Work experience evidence
- Police certificates
- Medical examination results
- English language evidence (some cases)
Processing Time
AEWV applications typically process in 6-12 weeks, though complex cases or incomplete applications may take longer.
Visa Duration and Conditions
Duration
AEWV visas are granted for up to 3 years, depending on:
- Employer accreditation type
- Nature of the role
- Individual circumstances
Conditions
AEWV holders must:
- Work only for the named employer
- Work only in the approved occupation
- Maintain the employment relationship
- Notify INZ of significant changes
Changing Employers
To change employers, migrants typically need to apply for a new AEWV with the new employer completing their own accreditation and Job Check process.
Pathway to Residence
The AEWV creates pathways to permanent residence:
Skilled Migrant Category
After 2 years on an AEWV, you may qualify for the Skilled Migrant Category residence pathway if your role meets skill level and remuneration requirements.
Green List Straight to Residence
Some occupations on the Green List allow direct residence application without working for 2 years first.
Common Issues and Solutions
Employer Not Accredited
If your prospective employer isn't accredited:
- They can apply for accreditation (takes 10-15 working days)
- Processing can occur while you wait overseas
- Consider whether employer willingness signals genuine opportunity
Job Check Declined
Reasons for decline include:
- Inadequate advertising evidence
- Below-median wage without exemption
- Concerns about role genuineness
Resolution may involve:
- Additional advertising
- Wage adjustment
- Additional evidence of skills shortage
Processing Delays
To minimize delays:
- Ensure all documents are complete before applying
- Provide clear, high-quality scans
- Respond promptly to any requests for further information
Costs Summary
| Stage | Cost |
|---|---|
| Standard Accreditation | NZ$740 |
| High-Volume Accreditation | NZ$1,980 |
| Job Check | NZ$610 |
| AEWV Application | NZ$750 |
| Total (Standard) | ~NZ$2,100 |
Additional costs may include medical examinations, police certificates, and qualification assessments.
Tips for Success
- Coordinate with employer: Ensure employer accreditation and Job Check are in progress early
- Gather documents early: Medical exams and police certificates take time
- Meet wage thresholds: Roles below median wage face extra hurdles
- Document your skills: Comprehensive evidence supports your application
- Consider professional help: Immigration advisers can streamline the process
Ready to apply for an AEWV? Find a licensed immigration adviser who can guide you and your employer through the accreditation and application process.