New Zealand Work Visa 2026: AEWV Requirements and Application Guide
If you are considering working abroad, the New Zealand work visa 2026 options may be worth exploring. One of the main routes for foreign workers is the Accredited Employer Work Visa, commonly known as the AEWV.
The AEWV allows eligible overseas workers to work in New Zealand after receiving a qualifying job offer from an employer accredited by Immigration New Zealand. However, having a job offer does not automatically guarantee a visa. Both the employer and the worker must meet the applicable immigration requirements.
This guide explains how the AEWV works in 2026, who may qualify, what it costs and the practical steps to take before applying.
What Is the New Zealand Work Visa 2026 AEWV?
The Accredited Employer Work Visa is an employer-specific work visa. This means your permission to work is linked to the employer, job and conditions approved for your visa.
According to Immigration New Zealand’s official AEWV guidance, applicants need an offer of full-time employment from an accredited employer. The job must provide at least 30 hours of work each week.
The visa can allow a stay of up to five years, depending on factors including the job offered, its skill level and pay. Some workers may receive a shorter period.
An AEWV is not permanent residence. Some workers may later qualify for a residence pathway, but eligibility must be assessed separately.
Who Can Apply for an AEWV?
You cannot normally apply for an AEWV simply because you want to move to New Zealand and search for work. You first need an eligible job offer from an accredited employer.
Applicants must generally:
- Have a genuine offer of full-time employment from an accredited employer.
- Meet the skills, experience or qualification requirements applicable to the job.
- Meet New Zealand’s health and character requirements.
- Meet English language requirements where these apply to the occupation.
- Provide the required employment and supporting documents.
- Meet any occupational registration requirements where relevant.
For the AEWV minimum skill requirement, a worker may qualify through relevant work experience or an appropriate qualification. Certain jobs have different requirements or exemptions, so applicants should check the rules applying to their particular occupation before submitting an application.
How to Find an Accredited Employer
Finding a genuine employer is one of the most important stages of the process. An ordinary New Zealand company is not automatically permitted to support an AEWV application.
Immigration New Zealand provides an official accredited employer search. You can search using information such as the employer’s company name, trading name or New Zealand Business Number.
The database is updated regularly. Immigration New Zealand also notes that some accredited employers may choose not to appear publicly, so an employer that cannot be found should be asked to confirm its accreditation.
Being accredited does not necessarily mean an employer currently has vacancies. Applicants should still check the employer’s official careers page and reputable New Zealand job platforms for genuine vacancies.
AEWV Application Process
The New Zealand work visa 2026 process involves actions by both the employer and the foreign worker.
- Find a genuine job: Apply for suitable vacancies and obtain a qualifying full-time job offer.
- Check the employer: Confirm that the organisation is accredited to employ workers under the AEWV scheme.
- Employer completes the required process: The employer must have the appropriate accreditation and an approved job check for the position.
- Receive the application link: After the required employer stages are completed, the employer sends the worker a unique link to apply online.
- Prepare your evidence: This may include your passport, employment agreement, job description and evidence of qualifications or relevant experience.
- Submit the application: Complete the online application, pay the applicable fee and provide any additional information requested by Immigration New Zealand.
Depending on individual circumstances, applicants may also need medical examinations, police certificates or other evidence.
How Much Does the AEWV Cost in 2026?
As of August 2026, Immigration New Zealand lists the AEWV application cost as starting from NZD $1,540. Applicants should check the official visa page immediately before applying because immigration fees can change.
Do not confuse the worker’s visa application fee with employer costs. Employer accreditation, recruitment and job check costs are the employer’s responsibility and must not be passed on to the migrant worker.
Pay Requirements for AEWV Jobs
New Zealand removed the general median wage requirement for AEWV jobs, but this does not mean employers can offer any salary they choose.
AEWV jobs must generally pay at least the relevant New Zealand market rate and comply with employment law. Employment New Zealand states that the adult minimum wage is NZD $23.95 per hour from 1 April 2026.
Applicants can check the latest rates through Employment New Zealand’s minimum wage guidance.
Some immigration pathways and occupations may have additional wage requirements, so always check the rules for your particular job.
Your Rights as a Foreign Worker in New Zealand
Migrant workers have the same minimum employment rights as New Zealand workers. These include rights relating to written employment agreements, wages, breaks, holidays, leave and safe working conditions.
Your employer must continue paying the amount stated in your employment arrangements and visa conditions. Employers also have responsibilities to provide AEWV workers with settlement information after they start employment.
You can read more about these protections through Employment New Zealand’s employee rights guidance.
Avoid New Zealand Job and Visa Scams
Job seekers should be particularly careful about anyone selling New Zealand jobs or promising guaranteed visas.
Warning signs include:
- Being asked to pay an employer for a job offer.
- Being charged the employer’s recruitment or accreditation costs.
- Guaranteed visa approval.
- Requests to provide false qualifications or work experience.
- Unrealistically high salaries for basic positions.
- Pressure to transfer large amounts of money quickly.
- A recruiter refusing to identify the actual employer.
Immigration New Zealand states that employers cannot charge workers for a job or make them pay recruitment costs. Check the official immigration scam guidance before paying an agent or providing sensitive documents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for an AEWV without a job offer?
No. The AEWV requires a qualifying job offer from an accredited New Zealand employer and completion of the relevant employer-side process.
Can I work a second job on an AEWV?
No. Immigration New Zealand states that AEWV holders cannot work a second job. The visa is linked to the approved employment conditions.
Can the AEWV lead to permanent residence?
Potentially, but not automatically. Some workers may later qualify for a skilled residence pathway depending on their occupation, qualifications, pay, work history and the immigration rules applying at the time.
Can I change employers?
You cannot simply start working for another employer if this conflicts with your visa conditions. You may need a Job Change, variation of conditions or a new visa before changing your employer, job or location.
Final Thoughts on the New Zealand Work Visa 2026
The New Zealand work visa 2026 AEWV route provides a legitimate way for eligible foreign workers to take up employment with accredited New Zealand employers. The key is to find a genuine qualifying job, verify the employer’s accreditation and ensure that you meet the requirements before applying.
Never pay someone for a guaranteed job or visa. Verify information through Immigration New Zealand and Employment New Zealand, and make sure your employment documents accurately reflect the job you have actually been offered.
Disclaimer: Immigration, employment, visa fees and government rules can change. This article is general information and is not immigration or legal advice. Always confirm current requirements through official New Zealand government sources before applying.
