Latest: Continuous intake. No round-based selection. Applications accepted year-round subject to programme rules and country caps.
About the Accredited Employer Work Visa
The Accredited Employer Work Visa is New Zealand's skilled worker visa programme and one of the most direct routes to permanent residence, typically achievable within 3 years. Employer-sponsored work visa requiring the employer to be NZ-accredited. Two-year initial visa, renewable, leads to Skilled Migrant residency.
Applications are processed in 2–4 months on average. Government fees start at $460, and the visa is valid for 5 years. Employer sponsorship is required — you must have a qualifying job offer before applying.
To qualify, applicants generally need 2+ years of skilled work experience. A minimum salary of $32,000 per year is also required.
The Accredited Employer Work Visa is suited to work in tech.
Eligibility requirements
Key facts
Best for
Path to permanent residence
Can lead to PR in approximately 3 years.
Validity period
5 years (tied to employer)
Employer sponsorship required
You need a qualifying employer to sponsor your application.
How to apply for the Accredited Employer Work Visa
- 01
Secure a qualifying job offer
Find an employer in New Zealand willing to sponsor your AEWV application. The role must meet occupation and salary requirements — minimum $32,000/year.
- 02
Gather your supporting documents
Compile educational credentials, employment history, passport, and any certificates. Have foreign documents officially translated.
- 03
Submit your AEWV application
File online through the official New Zealand immigration portal and pay the government fee of $460. Double-check all forms for errors before submission — mistakes cause delays.
- 04
Attend biometrics and medical (if required)
You may be asked to provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo) at an approved centre. Some visa categories also require a medical examination by an approved physician.
- 05
Receive decision (2–4 months)
Standard processing takes 2–4 months. Premium or expedited processing may be available for an additional fee. Avoid booking travel until you have a confirmed outcome.
What it costs
Attorney fees and document costs not included. Total spend is typically 2–5x the government fee.
Frequently asked questions
What are the main requirements for the Accredited Employer Work Visa?
2+ years of relevant work experience, A qualifying job offer from a New Zealand employer, A salary of at least $32,000/year
How long does the Accredited Employer Work Visa take to process?
Processing time for the Accredited Employer Work Visa is typically 2–4 months from the date a complete application is received. Timelines vary depending on application volume, the completeness of your documents, and whether additional checks are requested. Check the official New Zealand immigration website for current processing times before applying.
How much does the Accredited Employer Work Visa cost?
The government application fee for the Accredited Employer Work Visa is $460 USD. Total costs — including legal fees, document translations, medical exams, and biometrics — typically run 2–5x the base government fee. Budget accordingly before starting your application.
Does the Accredited Employer Work Visa lead to permanent residence?
Yes. The Accredited Employer Work Visa is one of the pathways to permanent residence in New Zealand. Eligible holders can generally apply for PR after approximately 3 years of qualifying residence. Conditions apply — consult a licensed immigration adviser for your specific situation.
Do I need a job offer for the Accredited Employer Work Visa?
Yes. A confirmed job offer from a qualifying New Zealand employer is required before you can apply for the Accredited Employer Work Visa. The employer typically needs to demonstrate they could not find a suitable local candidate and must meet specific sponsorship obligations.