Looking to live and work in New Zealand? If you’ve received a job offer from a Kiwi employer, the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) might be your gateway to a new life in Aotearoa.
In this article, we’ll guide you through how to apply for the Accredited Employer Work Visa, step-by-step. Whether you’re offshore and dreaming of moving to New Zealand, or already here and seeking a pathway to residency, understanding the process is key.
At Ezy Immigration, we help hundreds of skilled workers successfully apply for their AEWV every year—and we’re here to help you too.
What Is the Accredited Employer Work Visa?
Before jumping into the application process, it’s important to understand what this visa offers.
The AEWV is a temporary work visa that allows migrants to work for an employer accredited by Immigration New Zealand (INZ). It was introduced to ensure migrant workers are protected and that New Zealand businesses employ people fairly and responsibly.
If you’re granted this visa, you can:
- Work for up to three to five years (may progress on a pathway to residency).
- Bring your partner and dependent children under specific visa categories.
- Potentially apply for residency through the Green List or other skilled residence pathways.
You can read more about the visa’s benefits on our detailed page about the Accredited Employer Work Visa in NZ.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for the Accredited Employer Work Visa
1. Get a Job Offer from an Accredited Employer
Your first step is to secure a job offer from a New Zealand employer that is officially accredited by Immigration NZ.
Your job offer must:
- Be for a full-time role (at least 30 hours per week),
- Pay the market rate for the occupation,
- Be listed on INZ’s Job Check database if required.
Not sure if your employer is accredited? Contact us to check.
2. Your Employer Must Complete a Job Check
Before you apply, your accredited employer must pass what’s called a Job Check. This ensures:
- The job meets wage and employment conditions.
- The role has been advertised to New Zealanders first (if required).
- The job is genuine and matches the listed role on INZ’s skill shortage or Green List.
Tip: You can’t apply for an AEWV until your employer completes this step. We can liaise with your employer to ensure the Job Check is successful.
3. Prepare Your AEWV Application
Once your employer’s Job Check is approved, you’ll receive a Job Token, which you’ll use to start your application online.
Documents you’ll typically need:
- Valid passport
- Employment agreement and job details
- Evidence of qualifications or work experience
- Proof you meet English language requirements (for certain occupations)
- Medical and police certificates (depending on your country and stay length)
Need help gathering the right documents? Eddie Dhiman at Ezy Immigration makes sure everything is 100% compliant.
4. Submit Your Visa Application Online
You’ll apply through Immigration New Zealand’s online portal. The current application fee and processing time can vary depending on your situation.
Once submitted, INZ will assess:
- Your identity and background
- The genuineness of your job offer
- Whether your role meets labour market requirements
- If you meet character and health requirements
We recommend applying early, especially if you’re coordinating travel plans or visa transitions.
5. Wait for a Decision (and Be Ready for Next Steps)
If your application is successful, congratulations! You’ll receive your Accredited Employer Work Visa, allowing you to legally work in NZ.
What happens next?
- You can enter New Zealand if you’re offshore.
- You may bring your family to New Zealand on supporting visas.
- Depending on your job type, you might be eligible to apply for residency after two years.
Want to know if your role is on the Green List, giving you a faster path to residence? Check out our guide to Skilled Migrant Category Visas.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Applying before the Job Check is approved
- Submitting incomplete or non-compliant documents
- Not checking if your employer is genuinely accredited
- Overlooking residency pathway opportunities
Our experienced advisers can review your application and flag any risks before submission.
Why Apply with Ezy Immigration?
At Ezy Immigration, we specialise in helping skilled workers navigate the AEWV process from start to finish. We offer:
- End-to-end visa management
- Guidance on employer compliance
- Residency pathway planning
- Support for family visa applications
As a licensed immigration adviser, we’re committed to making your journey to New Zealand as smooth as possible.
Conclusion
Applying for an Accredited Employer Work Visa in New Zealand isn’t just about ticking boxes. It’s about understanding the system, ensuring your application is rock solid, and setting yourself up for long-term success.
Let Ezy Immigration help you make New Zealand your next home—with the right visa, the right job, and the right advice.
