Revealed: 7 Critical Changes to New Zealand’s AEWV for 2025

The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) is a temporary visa granted to individuals with a job offer from an accredited employer in New Zealand. The employer must be accredited by Immigration New Zealand (INZ), and the job must be classified as skilled.

Recent updates to the Accredited Employer Work Visa, effective from March and April 2025, have introduced significant changes that both employers and applicants need to be aware of.

What is the Accredited Employer Work Visa?

The Accredited Employer Work Visa is a visa that allows skilled workers to stay and work in New Zealand for up to 5 years. Holders of this visa can work for an accredited employer during this period, and the employer must offer at least 30 hours of work per week. After the 5-year period, AEWV holders are required to either leave New Zealand for 12 months or apply for residence.

One of the key features of the AEWV is that it allows migrants to study for up to 3 months in any 12-month period or undertake any study required as part of their employment. This flexibility enables skilled workers to enhance their knowledge and skills while working in New Zealand.

Another important aspect of the AEWV is that eligible holders can apply for a Residence Class Visa. The skilled work experience gained under the AEWV can be used to claim points towards the Skilled Migrant Category for a Resident Class Visa. This provides a pathway for skilled workers to transition from temporary to permanent residence in New Zealand.

Additionally, AEWV holders may be able to support a Work or Visitor Visa for their partner and a Visitor or Student Visa for any dependent child. This allows families to stay together while the primary visa holder works in New Zealand.

 

Benefits of the AEWV

  • Ability to work in New Zealand for up to 5 years.
  • Opportunity to gain valuable skilled work experience.
  • Potential pathway to residency through the Skilled Migrant Category.
  • Ability to support visas for partners and dependent children.

 

The AEWV Application Process

The Accredited Employer Work Visa application involves three key steps:

  1. Employer Accreditation: The employer must obtain accreditation from INZ.
  2. Job Check: INZ assesses and approves the job offer.
  3. Migrant Worker Check: The applicant undergoes a background check to ensure they meet the AEWV requirements.

 

AEWV Updates: March 2025

The March 2025 updates brought significant changes to the Accredited Employer Work Visa:

  1. Removal of Median Wage Requirement
    Employers recruiting under the AEWV and Specific Purpose Work Visa (SPWV) will no longer be required to pay the median wage. The only wage requirement is the New Zealand minimum wage of $23.50 (as of April 1, 2025).
  2. Reduced Work Experience Requirement
    The work experience requirement for migrants in ANZSCO skill levels 4 and 5 has been reduced from 3 years to 2 years.
  3. Simplified Employer Requirements with MSD
    The requirements for employers to engage with the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) are now declaration-based.
  4. Adjusted Visa Length
    The visa length for new ANZSCO skill level 4 and 5 AEWVs will be a maximum of 3 years.
  5. Reclassification of Certain Occupations
    The following occupations are now treated as ANZSCO skill level 3 to align with the National Occupation List (NOL):
    -Cook (351411)
    -Pet Groomer (361113)
    -Kennel Hand (361115)
    -Nanny (421113)
    -Fitness Instructor (452111)
    -Scaffolder (821712)
    -Slaughterer (831212)
    -Agricultural and Horticultural Mobile Plant Operator (721111)
    -Excavator Operator (721214)
    -Forklift Driver (721311)
    -Mobile Plant Operators NEC (721999)
  6. Mandatory English Language Requirement
    To be eligible for an AEWV, employees in ANZSCO skill levels 4 and 5 must meet English language requirements, even if their employer’s job check was approved before March 10, 2025.

 

AEWV Updates: April 2025

The key changes to the Accredited Employer Work Visa that came into effect in April 2025:

  1. Introduction of Interim Work Right
    From April 2025, AEWV applicants can have interim work rights while awaiting the outcome of their application if they apply while holding any type of Work Visa or a Student Visa that permits work during term time.

 

How to Prepare for Your AEWV Application

To ensure a successful Accredited Employer Work Visa application, consider the following:

  • Gather all necessary documents, including qualifications, work experience, and identity proof
  • Ensure you meet the English language requirements for your skill level
  • Confirm your employer’s accreditation status
  • Prepare for the Job Check and Migrant Worker Check by reviewing the criteria

 

Conclusion

The Accredited Employer Work Visa remains a valuable option for skilled workers seeking employment in New Zealand.

If you’re considering applying for an AEWV or are an employer looking to hire skilled migrants, it’s essential to stay up-to-date with these changes and seek professional guidance to navigate the application process successfully.

For expert guidance and support with your AEWV application, contact the experienced immigration professionals at Sharma Law. We’re here to help you navigate the complexities of New Zealand’s immigration system and achieve your goals. Contact our team and book a free 15-minute consultation.

Other Blogs Book a Consultation