formli AI logo formli AI
Back to Library
🇳🇿 New Zealand

Work Visa (New Zealand)

NZ Work Visa via Accredited Employer

Medium ~30 min Work VisaNew ZealandEmployment

/ What is this form?

The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) replaced most temporary work visa categories in 2022. The process has 3 steps: employer accreditation, job check (proving no suitable NZ workers available), and worker visa application. The visa is tied to the specific employer.

/ Who needs this form?

  • Foreign workers with a job offer from an accredited NZ employer
  • The employer must complete accreditation and job check before you can apply

/ What you need before you start

Job token number (provided by your employer after job check approval)
Valid passport
Police clearance certificates
Health evidence (if required by Immigration NZ)
Relevant qualifications

/ Step-by-step guide

1 Employer Gets Accredited
Your NZ employer must first become accredited with Immigration NZ. This is the employer's responsibility, not yours.
2 Employer Completes a Job Check
The employer must prove there are no suitable NZ workers available for the role by advertising the position and submitting a job check.
3 Receive Job Token
After the job check is approved, your employer receives a job token — a code you need to include in your visa application.
4 Apply for Your Visa
Apply online using the job token number along with your passport, police clearances, health evidence, and relevant qualifications.
5 Meet Pay Requirements
The role must pay at least the median NZ wage ($31.61/hour in 2024) or the market rate for the role, whichever is higher.

/ Key fields explained

Field What to enter Common mistake
Job token number The unique code provided by your employer after their job check is approved by Immigration NZ You cannot apply without this token — do not start your application until your employer has completed the job check

/ Common mistakes to avoid

Applying before the employer completes accreditation and job check
Not understanding the visa is employer-specific — you cannot freely change jobs
Role not meeting the minimum pay threshold ($31.61/hour in 2024)

/ Frequently asked questions

Can I change employers on AEWV?

Not freely. Your new employer must be accredited and complete a new job check. You then apply for a new AEWV — the process starts from step 1.

How long is the visa valid?

Up to 3 years, depending on the job check approval. Some roles may receive shorter durations.