The Accredited Employer Work Visa, known as the AEWV, is New Zealand’s main work visa for people hired by an approved employer. It has a three-stage process, and the employer must complete the first two before a worker can apply. The rules changed in 2025 and 2026, including the median wage rule, the list of eligible occupations and English requirements. This guide explains how the visa works and what Nigerian applicants should check.
The Three Stages
| Stage | Who Acts | What Happens |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Employer accreditation | The employer | The employer applies to Immigration New Zealand to become an accredited employer |
| 2. Job check | The employer | The employer applies for approval of the specific job, including pay and conditions |
| 3. Worker visa application | The worker | After the job check is approved, the worker applies for the AEWV |
A worker cannot start the process alone. The first step is to find an accredited employer who has a vacancy.
Basic Eligibility
- A job offer of full-time work, usually at least 30 hours a week, from an accredited employer.
- An approved job check for the specific position.
- Pay at or above the market rate for the job, and at least the minimum rules that apply to the role.
- The skills and experience that the job requires. For many roles, this means a qualification or several years of relevant experience.
- Occupational registration if the job requires it, such as for nurses, teachers and electricians.
- Good health and character, with police certificates and medical checks where asked.
- English at the required level for the job.
What Changed in 2025 and 2026
- In March 2025, New Zealand removed the median wage as a blanket pay floor for most AEWV roles. The median wage still acts as an index for other thresholds.
- From 9 March 2026, the immigration median wage rose from NZ$33.56 to NZ$35.00 an hour.
- On the same date, 47 more skill level 1 to 3 occupations were added to the national occupation list for AEWV applications.
- From 1 June 2026, English language requirements apply to more roles, including skill level 3 jobs.
Because the rules change, check the official Immigration New Zealand pages before you apply. Secondary sources sometimes quote different salary figures.
How the Job Check Works
The job check proves that the job is genuine and that the pay and conditions meet New Zealand rules. For many roles, the employer must advertise the job locally first to show that no suitable New Zealand worker is available. Certain jobs on the national occupation list or in sectors with shortages may be exempt from some parts of this test. The employer pays for the accreditation and the job check, and employers cannot charge workers for recruitment.
Steps for the Worker
- Look for vacancies from employers that appear on the accredited employer list on the Immigration New Zealand website.
- Apply, attend interviews and receive a written job offer.
- Ask the employer for the job check approval number.
- Collect documents: passport, certificates, references, English test results and police clearance.
- Apply online for the AEWV, using the job check number, and pay the visa fee. The fee for 2026 is published on the official site.
- Complete biometrics and medical checks if requested.
- Receive a decision, then travel and start work.
English Language Requirements
English requirements depend on the skill level of the job. From June 2026, applicants for some skill level 3 roles also need to show English proof. Tests such as IELTS, PTE and OET are widely accepted, and some people qualify with an English-medium qualification. Read the Immigration New Zealand rules for your occupation and book a test early.
Length of Stay and Pathways
The visa can be granted for up to five years, depending on the occupation, skill level and pay. Some AEWV holders later qualify for a resident visa through skilled migration or other pathways, but this is not automatic. Visa holders may also study for a short period or complete training needed for the job. Check the conditions printed on the visa.
In-Demand Fields
- Healthcare: nurses, doctors, physiotherapists and aged-care workers.
- Construction and trades: electricians, plumbers, carpenters and builders.
- Agriculture and horticulture: orchard workers, dairy farm workers and processors.
- Engineering and technology: civil engineers, software developers and technicians.
- Hospitality and tourism: chefs, hotel managers and some guide roles.
Finding Accredited Employers
- Use the accredited employer list on the Immigration New Zealand website to check an employer’s status.
- Search the national job site, the government jobs portal and professional job boards for roles that mention visa sponsorship.
- Check employers’ careers pages for roles with “AEWV” or “accredited employer” in the description.
- Use licensed recruitment agencies that are paid by employers.
Costs
| Cost | Who Normally Pays |
|---|---|
| Employer accreditation and job check | The employer |
| AEWV application fee | The worker, unless the employer agrees to cover it |
| Medical and police checks | The worker |
| Flights and moving costs | The worker, though some employers help |
Scams and Red Flags
- A recruiter charges you for a “job check” or “accreditation”, which are employer costs.
- An employer is not on the accredited employer list.
- An agent promises permanent residence along with the work visa.
- You are asked to pay in cash or through a personal account.
New Zealand has rules against charging workers recruitment fees, and it can penalise employers who break them. Report abuse to the labour inspectorate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for the AEWV without a job?
No. You need an accredited employer, a job check approval and a job offer.
Can I bring my family?
Partners and children may be able to apply for visas based on your AEWV, depending on the job’s skill level and pay. Check the current rules.
Can I change employers?
You can change if the new employer is accredited and completes a job check, and you apply to change the conditions of your visa.
How long does processing take?
Times vary. Immigration New Zealand publishes current processing times on its website.
Final Thoughts
The AEWV is a clear route for Nigerians who can find an accredited employer and meet the skill, pay and English rules. Check the employer’s status, confirm the job check number and read the 2026 changes on the official site. Do not pay anyone for a job check or an accreditation, because those are employer responsibilities.