New Zealand Work Visa 2025: BIG Changes to Accredited Employer Visa (AEWV)

Hey everyone, and welcome! If you’re dreaming of working in New Zealand, I’ve got some fantastic news for you. The New Zealand government has announced significant changes to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) for 2025, making it easier than ever to live and work in this beautiful country.

In this post, I’ll cover everything you need to know about the AEWV, including key updates, requirements, application processes, and more. So, grab a cup of tea, and let’s dive in!

Why New Zealand?

New Zealand is facing a labor shortage across various sectors, creating ample opportunities for foreign workers. With a stable economy, excellent work conditions, and a potential pathway to residency, it’s a dream destination for many.

Key AEWV Updates for 2025:

• Easier Transition from Student Visa: Starting April 2025, students can transition to the AEWV with interim work rights. Post-study work visas have also been extended, allowing students to stay and work for up to three years.
• Reduced Experience Requirements: The required work experience has been reduced from three years to just two, opening doors for more applicants.
• Removal of Median Wage Requirements: The strict median wage requirement (previously $29.66 per hour) has been removed, providing more flexibility for employers and workers.
• New Seasonal Worker Pathways: Two new pathways have been introduced: a three-year multi-entry visa for experienced seasonal workers and a seven-month single-entry visa for lower-skilled workers.
• Increased Visa Validity: The two-year work visa period has been extended to three years for jobs at ANZSCO skill levels four or five.
• Reduced Domestic Workforce Criteria: In the construction industry, the domestic workforce criteria has been reduced from 35% to 15%, making it easier to fill open positions.
• Simplified Job Check Process: From March 10, 2025, a declaration of good faith engagement with the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) will replace the engagement check.
• ANZSCO Skill Level Changes: English language requirements have been removed for ANZSCO skill level four jobs that are treated as skill level three.

Checking Employer Accreditation:

Before applying, ensure your potential employer is accredited. You can easily check this on the official New Zealand government website here. Simply enter the New Zealand Business Number (NZBN) or the company name.

Seasonal Work Opportunities:

For those interested in seasonal work, the Recognized Seasonal Employer (RSE) list provides a directory of accredited employers. You can find this list on the official government website.

Why Apply for the AEWV?

• Legal pathway to work in New Zealand.
• Opportunities in various sectors due to labor shortages.
• Potential pathway to residency.
• Strong labor laws and excellent work conditions.

AEWV Requirements:

• Valid job offer from an accredited employer.
• Job check approval from Immigration New Zealand (INZ).
• Meeting specific skills and experience requirements.
• Meeting health and character requirements.
• English language proficiency (depending on ANZSCO skill level).

Visa Cost and Validity:

• Visa costs vary, but typically around NZ$1,540.
• Visa validity: up to five years for most jobs, or three years for ANZSCO skill level four or five.

Finding Jobs in New Zealand:

• Recruitment Agencies:
  • Randstad New Zealand (randstad.co.nz)
  • Robert Walters (robertwalters.com)
  • Recruit NZ (recruitnz.co.nz)
  • Adecco (adecco.co.nz)
• Job Websites:
  • Seek (seek.co.nz)
  • Careers.govt.nz

Step-by-Step Application Process:

1. Employer Accreditation: The employer must obtain accreditation from INZ.
2. Job Check Process: The employer applies for a job check.
3. Visa Application: Apply for the AEWV online through the INZ website.
4. Supporting Documents: Provide necessary documents (proof of identity, qualifications, work experience).
5. Visa Decision: INZ assesses your application (typically within five weeks).

Need Personalized Guidance?

If you have specific questions or would like personalized guidance tailored to your immigration needs, I offer one-on-one sessions. You can fill out the form in this post. This is a dedicated hour where we can discuss your specific situation and the countries you’re interested in. Check it out below:

work visa and travel inquiry

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CV and Cover Letter Assistance:

Are you looking to upgrade your CV to a European standard or need a compelling cover letter? I offer CV upgrades and a special CV + cover letter combo! The links are in the description below. Contact us on Instagram or Facebook to get started.

Flight Reservations and University Admissions:

We also assist with flight reservations for visa applications and process university admissions for those looking to study abroad. Reach out to us directly using the form.

Final Thoughts:

The 2025 AEWV updates present a fantastic opportunity for those looking to work in New Zealand. Remember to thoroughly research and prepare your application.

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