Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)
New Zealand's main employer-sponsored temporary work visa.
Official New Zealand pageWho this route is for
Migrants with a job offer from an accredited New Zealand employer for a role that passes the job check.
Eligibility requirements
- Hold a job offer from an accredited employer for a job-checked role
- Be paid at least the NZ market rate for the role (the median-wage pay floor was removed 10 March 2025; minimum wage NZD $23.50/hour applies)
- Have 2+ years of relevant work experience or a qualification at NZQCF level 4 or higher
- Meet health and character requirements
Requirements reviewed July 2026. They change frequently — confirm the current rules on the official page before relying on them.
Recent changes & caveats
Earning 1.5x the median wage supports the maximum 5-year continuous stay; earning 2x may exempt the role from the labour market test and skills threshold. Employers pay separate accreditation and job-check fees.
Other New Zealand routes
Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) Limited Visa
TemporarySeasonal work in horticulture and viticulture under an annual cap.
Working Holiday Visa
TemporaryCountry-specific work-and-travel visas for young people from 40+ partner countries.
Visitor Visa
TemporaryShort-term visa for tourism, visiting family, or short courses of study.
Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa
PermanentPoints-based residence for skilled workers, scored against the NZ median wage.