What is the AEWV scheme?

• The AEWV is New Zealand’s primary temporary work visa.
• The AEWV allows accredited New Zealand employers to hire migrant workers where no suitable New Zealanders are available.
• It is an employer-led, three-step process: employer accreditation, a Job Check, and then the worker’s visa application.

Do all employers need to be accredited to hire migrants?

• Yes. Any employer wishing to hire a worker on an AEWV must hold accreditation granted by Immigration New Zealand (INZ).

How does my business get accredited?

• Your business applies for accreditation online through INZ.
• You must show that your business is genuine, financially viable, and compliant with employment and immigration laws.
• As part of the application, you choose the correct accreditation type (standard, high‑volume, or triangular), provide basic business information, make required compliance declarations, and pay the accreditation fee.

What is a Job Check?

• A Job Check is INZ’s assessment of the role being offered. It confirms the job is genuine, meets employment standards, and that there are no suitable Kiwis to employ.
• If the Job Check is approved, INZ issues a job token, which allows the migrant worker to apply for their AEWV.

How do I apply for a Job Check?

• Once your business is accredited, you apply for a Job Check online through INZ.
• Details of the position, pay rate, location, and employment terms are required.  
• Depending on the role, you will likely need evidence that you advertised the job in New Zealand.
• For lower‑skilled roles, you will need evidence that you engaged with Work and Income to try to find a suitable Kiwi for the role.

Why do we need to advertise roles in New Zealand and how do we do this?

• Advertising is required to show INZ that you have made genuine attempts to recruit New Zealand citizens or residents first.
• The role must be genuinely advertised and on a national platform or with a recruitment agency.
• The advert must outline the job title, location, duties, pay range, hours, and minimum skills or experience necessary.
• The advert must run for 14 days for skill level 1 – 3 roles, or 21 days for skill level 4 – 5 roles.
• If the role is on the Green List or is paid $70.00 per hour or more, advertising is not required.

Is there a minimum wage requirement for AEWVs?

• The median wage requirement was removed in March 2025.
• Employers must offer and pay at least the market rate for the role.

Who can I hire under the AEWV?

• You can hire migrant workers who have the skills, qualifications, and experience required for the role approved in your Job Check.
• The worker must meet health and character requirements.

How long can a worker stay on an AEWV?

• Visa length depends on the skill level of the role.
• Higher-skilled roles can allow up to five years (skill level 1 – 3).
• Lower-skilled roles are limited to three years (skill level 4 – 5).

What are the associated fees?

• Employer accreditation application fee – $775 (for standard accreditation) (paid by the employer).
• Job Check application fee – $735 (paid by the employer).
• The AEWV application fee – $1,540 (paid by the worker).
• Additional costs may arise for advertising, professional advice, and compliance activities.

The information in this article is general in nature and is intended to provide a high‑level overview of the AEWV scheme only. Immigration rules are detailed, subject to change, and often depend on the specific circumstances of each business and role. If you are considering hiring migrant workers or are unsure how the AEWV requirements apply to your situation, we recommend seeking tailored legal advice before taking action. Please get in touch with us if you would like assistance.

Need advice or assistance?  The team at Copeland McAllister is happy to support you with all immigration matters. Give us a call on 03 211 0153 or email admin@cmalaw.co.nz.