New Zealand Accredited Employer Work Visa 2025 New Requirements and Process

Imagine a land where lush green landscapes, thriving cities, and a high demand for skilled workers merge to create the perfect destination for your next career adventure. That land is New Zealand, and the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) is your ticket to unlocking its opportunities.

The AEWV is more than just a work visa—it’s a bridge to new beginnings for international professionals eager to contribute to one of the world’s most welcoming and innovative economies. Whether you’re a seasoned construction manager, a tech wizard, or a skilled healthcare worker, New Zealand is rolling out the red carpet with the 2025 AEWV reforms. These updates make it easier than ever to join the workforce and, importantly, bring your expertise to industries that need it most.

But here’s the catch: choosing the right employer is crucial to your success. The AEWV requires you to work for an accredited employer, which means not just any job offer will do. Below, we explore how to verify your potential employer, uncover the wide range of opportunities under this program, and set you up for success in your New Zealand journey.

Opportunities Under the AEWV Program for 2025

The AEWV program opens doors to a variety of sectors, including:

1# Healthcare and Aged Care: New Zealand has an ongoing demand for healthcare professionals, including nurses, aged care workers, and medical specialists. With reduced experience requirements, these roles are now more accessible.

2# Construction and Infrastructure: Large-scale infrastructure projects mean roles for engineers, project managers, and tradespeople are in high demand.

3# Technology and IT: From software developers to cybersecurity experts, the IT sector is a growing hotspot for international talent.

4# Seasonal Work Pathways: If you’re looking for temporary work, the new seasonal pathways (coming November 2025) offer options ranging from agriculture to tourism-related roles.

5# Skilled Trades and Manufacturing: Roles in welding, machining, and mechanical engineering continue to feature prominently on New Zealand’s skills shortage list.

6# Education and Social Services: Qualified teachers and social workers are also encouraged to apply, particularly in regions with a higher need for these services.

Can Skilled Workers Verify Employers for AEWV Applications?

Before packing your bags, ensure that your future employer meets New Zealand’s strict accreditation standards. Employers must be accredited by Immigration New Zealand (INZ) to hire workers under the AEWV scheme. Here’s how to confirm their status:

• Check the INZ Accredited Employer List (2025 Updated): https://www.immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas/preparing-a-visa-application/working-in-nz/check-if-an-employer-is-accredited.
• Check Recognized Seasonal Employer list: https://www.immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas/preparing-a-visa-application/working-in-nz/getting-a-job/recognised-seasonal-employers-list.
• Ask for Accreditation Proof: Don’t hesitate to ask your employer for their accreditation certificate or proof of application approval.
• Third-Party Verification: Some recruitment agencies specializing in New Zealand jobs can also confirm an employer’s status for you.
• Employer Responsibilities: Accredited employers must meet fair wage requirements, maintain compliance with New Zealand’s labor laws, and ensure workplace safety standards.

Recent Changes to the AEWV Program Impact on 2025 Applications

The 2025 reforms (Released on December 17, 2024) to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) are a game-changer for skilled workers and employers alike. These updates focus on simplifying the process, broadening eligibility, and creating new pathways for international workers. Here’s how the changes will impact new applications:

1# Removal of the Median Wage Threshold

• • What It Means: Employers no longer need to meet a strict wage threshold. Instead, they must offer the market rate for the role and location.
  • Impact: Broadens access to roles across sectors, particularly for skilled workers in regions with varying market rates.

2# Reduced Experience Requirements

• • What It Means: Minimum work experience lowered from 3 years to 2 years.
  • Impact: Expands eligibility for a wider pool of skilled workers.

3# Streamlined Job Check Process

• • What It Means: A re-designed system for low-risk employers launching in July 2025.
  • Impact: Faster application reviews and less red tape for trusted employers, benefiting workers applying to such employers.

4# Seasonal Worker Pathways

• • What It Means: Introduction of 3-year multi-entry and 7-month single-entry seasonal visas.
  • Impact: Creates new options for workers seeking short-term roles, particularly in agriculture and tourism.

5# Extended Visa Durations for Lower Skill Levels

• • What It Means: ANZSCO skill levels 4 and 5 visas now valid for 3 years.
  • Impact: Greater job security and reduced renewal hassles for lower-skill workers.

6# Interim Visa Work Rights

• • What It Means: Interim work rights extended to applicants transitioning from work or student visas.
  • Impact: Prevents employment disruptions while applications are processed.

Overall Impact on New AEWV Applications Starting January 2025

These reforms (https://www.immigration.govt.nz/about-us/media-centre/news-notifications/reforms-to-aewv-announced) make the AEWV program more flexible and inclusive, allowing a larger pool of skilled workers to join the New Zealand workforce. The streamlined processes also ensure faster application reviews, providing applicants with quicker pathways to employment. For employers, these changes reduce administrative burdens, enabling them to meet labor demands efficiently.

New Step-by-Step AEWV Application Process in 2025

Step 1: Employer Accreditation: Employers must first obtain or renew their accreditation through Immigration New Zealand (INZ).

Step 2: Job Check by Employer: Employers submit a Job Check (https://www.immigration.govt.nz/employ-migrants/new-employer-accreditation-and-work-visa/passing-the-job-check)to ensure the role cannot be filled by a New Zealand worker.

Step 3: Worker Application: Once the employer receives a positive Job Check, the worker applies for the AEWV. And submit the following:

• • Proof of job offer.
  • Relevant qualifications and experience documentation.
  • Evidence of meeting salary and skill requirements.

Step 4: Visa Decision: Upon successful application, workers receive their AEWV and can begin employment.

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