Work Visas
Types of Work Visas
New Zealand offers a variety of work visa options for those looking to work in the country. The most common type is the Accredited Employer Work Visa, which allows employers who are accredited by Immigration New Zealand to hire foreign workers. Other visa choices include the Post-Study Work Visa, Student and Trainee Work Visa, Family-Stream Work Visa, Horticulture and Viticulture Seasonal Work Visa, and International / Humanitarian Work Visa. The specific requirements and eligibility criteria vary for each visa type. If you’re interested in working in New Zealand, we encourage you to contact us to learn more about the different visa options and find the one that best fits your situation and career goals.
Working Holiday Visa
New Zealand’s working holiday schemes allow young travellers (typically aged 18-30, up to 35 in some cases) to work and holiday in the country for an extended period. Key permissions:
- Multiple entry visa valid for 12-23 months, depending on your country
- Allows both work and holiday activities during your stay
- You can work in temporary or casual jobs but cannot take permanent employment
It’s important to note that the working holiday visa is country-specific, meaning the eligibility requirements and quota of available visas can vary based on your country of citizenship. Where there is limited availability, these places are taken in a matter of minutes on the release day, and the allocation becomes a lottery. Our immigration advisors can guide the details of your particular nationality.
AEWVs: Pathway to Employment in New Zealand
For individuals seeking to work in New Zealand, the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) offers a streamlined and accessible pathway. This visa is designed to connect skilled workers with employers in the country, making it easier for both parties to navigate the immigration process.
The Three-Stage AEWV Process
The AEWV process is divided into three stages, each building upon the previous step to ensure a smooth and efficient experience.
Stage 1: Employer Accreditation
The first step is for the employer to become an Accredited Employer. This involves meeting a set of criteria established by Immigration New Zealand, including demonstrating a commitment to hiring and supporting migrant workers, maintaining robust human resource practices, and complying with all relevant employment laws and regulations. Once an employer is accredited, they can sponsor and support prospective employees’ visa applications.
Stage 2: Job Offer and Application
With an accredited employer on board, the next stage is for the prospective employee to secure a genuine, full-time job offer from the accredited employer. This job offer must align with the applicant’s skills, qualifications, and work experience and meet the minimum requirements of Immigration New Zealand.
After the job offer is confirmed, the applicant can submit their AEWV application, providing all necessary documentation and supporting evidence to demonstrate their suitability for the role and ability to meet the visa requirements.
Stage 3: Visa Approval and Issuance
After the job offer is confirmed, the applicant can submit their AEWV application, providing all necessary documentation and supporting evidence to demonstrate their suitability for the role and ability to meet the visa requirements.
The final stage of the AEWV process is the visa approval and issuance. Immigration New Zealand will thoroughly assess the application, verifying the job offer, the applicant’s credentials, and their ability to contribute to the New Zealand workforce. Upon successful approval, the applicant will be granted the Accredited Employer Work Visa, which allows them to live and work in New Zealand for the duration of the visa, typically up to 3 years.
If you are interested in exploring the Accredited Employer Work Visa and the opportunities it presents, our team of immigration specialists is here to assist you every step of the way. Contact us today to learn more and start your journey to working in New Zealand.
