Last updated: October 2026
New Zealand continues to recruit overseas workers where employers cannot fill genuine vacancies locally. One of the main routes used by foreign workers is the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV).
The AEWV is not a general job-seeker visa. You normally need a genuine full-time job offer from an accredited New Zealand employer before you can apply.
This guide explains how the AEWV works, who can qualify, what documents may be required, how to identify accredited employers and how to avoid job-offer scams when preparing for opportunities in 2027.
What Is the Accredited Employer Work Visa?
The Accredited Employer Work Visa allows eligible migrant workers to work in New Zealand for an employer that has been approved to hire workers under the AEWV system.
Under current Immigration New Zealand rules, the job offer must normally be for at least 30 hours of work per week. The employer must hold the required accreditation and have an approved job check for the position.
How Long Can You Stay?
The maximum period depends on the occupation, skill level, pay and the worker’s previous AEWV history.
Many eligible jobs can allow a worker to remain for up to five years, while some lower-skilled occupations have a shorter maximum continuous stay.
The visa is linked to the job, employer and location stated in the worker’s visa conditions. Changing these details may require a Job Change, variation of conditions or a new visa application.
Basic Skill Requirements
Under current rules, AEWV applicants generally need to show that they have either:
- At least two years of relevant job experience, or
- A qualification at level 4 or higher on the New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework.
The qualification or experience normally needs to be relevant to the offered job. A bachelor’s degree or higher can receive different treatment under the qualification rules.
A CV by itself may not be enough evidence of work experience. Immigration New Zealand can expect supporting documents such as employment certificates, payslips, tax records or credible employer references.
English-Language Requirements
Current rules require English-language evidence for many jobs classified at skill levels 3 to 5 under the relevant occupation system.
Jobs at skill levels 1 or 2 generally do not have the same AEWV English-language requirement, although the employer may still require strong English for the job.
Occupational Registration
Some New Zealand occupations are regulated. A worker may need professional registration before being allowed to perform the job.
This can apply to occupations in areas such as healthcare, teaching, electrical work and other regulated professions.
Examples of Jobs Foreign Workers Can Research
The actual vacancies available change every day, but international workers may find opportunities in areas such as:
- Healthcare
- Engineering
- Construction and trades
- Hospitality
- Manufacturing
- Transport and logistics
- Technology
- Agriculture under appropriate visa routes
Not every vacancy in these sectors qualifies for an AEWV, and some agricultural or seasonal jobs use separate immigration pathways.
How to Find an Accredited Employer
Applicants should verify that the employer is genuinely accredited before relying on a sponsorship promise.
Use Immigration New Zealand’s accredited employer information and compare the business name with the employer’s official website, job advertisement and employment agreement.
What Should Be in the Job Offer?
A genuine AEWV application usually requires a signed job offer, employment agreement and job description.
The employment must comply with New Zealand employment law. Applicants should check the job title, location, salary, weekly hours, duties and duration carefully before signing.
Can an Employer Charge You for the Job?
New Zealand employers and agents cannot lawfully charge migrant workers a fee for the job or pass recruitment costs to them under the AEWV system.
Be suspicious of anyone demanding money simply to “release” an accredited job offer.
Can Nigerians Apply for New Zealand Jobs?
Yes. Qualified applicants from Nigeria and other countries can apply where a New Zealand accredited employer is willing to hire them and they satisfy the job and immigration requirements.
Applicants should prepare verifiable evidence of qualifications and experience rather than relying only on a résumé.
Common AEWV Scams
- Paying someone to buy an accredited job offer
- Receiving a contract from a company that cannot be verified
- Being promised a guaranteed resident visa immediately
- Being told no experience evidence is needed when the visa requires it
- Sending passport or banking details to an unverified recruiter
Official Sources
- Immigration New Zealand – Accredited Employer Work Visa
- Immigration New Zealand – Work visa requirements
Final Thoughts
The AEWV can provide a genuine route to work in New Zealand, but applicants normally need a real job offer first.
Verify the employer, confirm the role meets current visa requirements and keep strong evidence of your experience and qualifications.
Disclaimer: New Zealand immigration rules can change. This article provides general information and does not guarantee employment, visa approval or residence.
