Are you dreaming of starting a new life in New Zealand in 2025 with a secure job, legal stay, and even a pathway to residency? Then the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) might be your golden ticket! This visa allows skilled individuals from around the world to work for New Zealand employers who have earned accreditation to hire migrant workers.
This guide breaks down everything new applicants need to know about the AEWV in 2025—from eligibility, required documents, and application steps to bringing your family and converting your stay into residency.
Overview of the AEWV 2025
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Visa Name | Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) |
| Stay Duration | Up to 5 years (depends on job type and pay) |
| Cost | From NZD $1,540 |
| Processing Time | 80% within 5 weeks |
| Residency Pathway | Yes, in most cases |
| Application Method | Online only (via unique employer-issued link) |
âś… Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for the AEWV in 2025, you must:
- Have a full-time job offer (30+ hours/week) from an accredited employer.
- Meet skill and experience requirements for the job.
- Have occupational registration if required.
- Be of good character and health.
- Show English language proficiency if your job is at ANZSCO skill level 4 or 5.
- Have spent required time outside NZ if reapplying after maximum stay.
đź”” Important: Your employer must send you a unique link (job token) to apply. You cannot apply without this.
🧩 Understanding the ANZSCO Skill Levels
| ANZSCO Level | Description | Max Stay | English Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level 1–3 | Highly Skilled Jobs | 5 years | ❌ No |
| Level 4–5 | Lower Skilled Jobs | 3 years | ✅ Yes |
Check your job’s skill level using the ANZSCO Skill List.
đź“‹ Documents You Need for AEWV Application Submission
Prepare these documents for your online AEWV application:
- Signed job offer and employment agreement
- Detailed job description
- Passport scan valid for at least 3 more months
- One recent photo
- Proof of qualifications (with NZQA IQA for most overseas non-bachelor credentials)
- Work experience evidence (letters, pay slips, tax certificates)
- English proficiency test results (if applicable)
- Police certificates (issued within 6 months)
- Medical certificates (including chest X-ray if required)
🔎 All documents must be in English or include certified translations.
Minimum Skill Requirements for AEWV in 2025 for New Applicants
To qualify, you must have:
-
- 2+ years of relevant work experience, OR
- A level 4 or higher qualification on NZQCF
You are exempt from providing further evidence if:
-
- Your job is on the Green List
- Your registration proves your skill level
- You earn NZD $59.32/hour or more.
⚠️ AEWV jobs in planting, fishing, or self-employment are not eligible.
New AEWV Work Visa Application Process (June 2025 Onwards)
Step 1: Job Offer & Employer Token: Get a full-time job offer from an accredited employer. They’ll give you a job token (unique application link).
Step 2: Gather Your Documents: Collect ID, job offer, qualifications, experience, and English test proof if needed. Translate anything not in English.
Step 3: Apply Online & Pay: Click the link from your employer, fill out the application, upload documents, and pay the visa fee.
Step 4: Wait for a Decision: 80% of AEWV applications are processed in 5 weeks. You may be asked for additional documents during review.
Step 5: Receive Your eVisa: If approved, you’ll get an eVisa. Print and carry it with you when entering New Zealand.
👨‍👩‍👧 Possibility to Bring Your Family on Your AEWV Visa
You cannot include your partner or children on the AEWV itself, but you can support them to apply separately for:
- Visitor or work visa (partner)
- Visitor or student visa (children)
Your ability to support family depends on your income and ANZSCO job level.
đź’¬ English Language Requirements for AEWV Work Visa Jobs
Only required if your job is ANZSCO level 4 or 5. You can prove your ability to speak English by:
- Education in English-speaking country
- Passing an English test like IELTS or PTE (must be under 2 years old)
đź©ş Health and Character Requirements for AEWV Program
- Submit a chest X-ray and medical certificate if required.
- Provide police certificates if aged 17+ and staying 24+ months total.
⚠️ Police certificates must be less than 6 months old at the time of application.
🧳 When You Arrive in New Zealand?
You must:
- Complete the New Zealand Traveller Declaration before departure
- Show your eVisa and possibly your job offer
- Pass customs and health checks.
📌 While You’re in New Zealand
| ✅ You CAN | ❌ You CANNOT |
|---|---|
| Work only for the employer, job, and location stated on your visa | Work a second job |
| Study for up to 3 months per year | Change job/employer/location without applying for a Job Change or variation |
| Apply to bring your partner and children (through separate visa routes) | Stay beyond your visa expiry unless you apply for another AEWV or residency |
🔄 Extending or Transitioning to Residency
If you haven’t used your maximum continuous stay (3 or 5 years), you can apply for another AEWV. You may be eligible for residency pathways through:
🎯 Final Thoughts
The Accredited Employer Work Visa 2025 is your structured gateway to working and possibly settling in New Zealand—one of the world’s safest and most beautiful countries. Just ensure you meet the qualifications, gather the right documents, and steer clear of scams. A brighter future in Aotearoa awaits.
References
