Destination Guide
New Zealand: the Accredited Employer Work Visa and residence beyond it
A confirmed job offer from an Immigration New Zealand-accredited employer is the core requirement, with a path to residence available through the Skilled Migrant Category once you have qualifying work experience.
Overview
The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) requires a confirmed job offer from an employer accredited by Immigration New Zealand, generally an applicant age of 55 or under, and a wage meeting the current threshold, around NZD $35 per hour in early 2026. From there, the Skilled Migrant Category points system is the main route to residence, weighing your age, qualifications, and New Zealand work experience once you have built up time in the country.
How Vanguard helps
- Employer accreditation and job-offer verification
- AEWV application preparation
- Skilled Migrant Category points planning for your residence pathway
- Timeline coordination between your work visa and residence application
Frequently Asked
Questions about moving to New Zealand
Is there an age limit for New Zealand work visas?
The Accredited Employer Work Visa generally applies to applicants 55 or under; we confirm current settings at your consultation.
Does the AEWV lead automatically to residence?
Not automatically, but qualifying work experience under it typically builds toward the points-tested Skilled Migrant Category.
Ready to explore New Zealand?
Book a paid consultation and leave with a written pathway recommendation built around your profile.