Do you want to work in New Zealand, earning a lucrative salary of up to $100,000? The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) is your gateway to securing high-paying jobs with government-approved employers in New Zealand.
This comprehensive post will walk you through everything you need to know about obtaining an AEWV, from eligibility requirements to the application process, and highlight five high-paying AEWV jobs you can apply for today.
What is the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)?
The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) is New Zealand’s primary temporary work visa, designed to address skill and labor shortages while prioritizing local workers. Introduced on July 4, 2022, the AEWV allows skilled migrants to work for accredited employers for up to 5 years, with some roles offering pathways to residency.
It ensures fair treatment for migrant workers and combats exploitation by requiring employers to meet strict accreditation standards. As of June 2025, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has approved over 150,282 AEWV applications, with 28,865 accredited employers ready to hire skilled talent.
This visa is ideal for professionals seeking high-paying jobs in industries like healthcare, IT, engineering, and construction, where salaries can reach up to $100,000 or more. Whether you’re a software developer, nurse, or project manager, the AEWV opens doors to exciting career opportunities in New Zealand’s vibrant job market.
Why Choose the AEWV for High-Paying Jobs?
The AEWV is a game-changer for international workers aiming to secure well-paid roles in New Zealand. Here’s why:
- High Salary Potential: Many AEWV jobs, especially in skilled sectors, offer salaries up to $100,000, aligning with New Zealand’s market rates.
- Pathway to Residency: Certain roles, particularly those on the Green List or in high-demand sectors, provide pathways to permanent residency through the Skilled Migrant Category or Work to Residence visas.
- Family Benefits: AEWV holders earning at least NZD $55,844 annually can support work visas for partners and student/visitor visas for dependent children.
- Flexible Stay: The visa allows stays of up to 5 years for most jobs (3 years for ANZSCO skill levels 4-5), with the option to extend or apply for new AEWVs.
- Employer Accreditation: Only vetted, accredited employers can hire AEWV workers, ensuring fair wages and workplace conditions.
With New Zealand’s strong economy and demand for skilled professionals, the AEWV is your ticket to a rewarding career and lifestyle in a country known for its natural beauty and high quality of life.
Eligibility Requirements for the AEWV
To qualify for an AEWV, you must meet specific criteria set by Immigration New Zealand. Here’s what you need:
- Job Offer from an Accredited Employer: You must secure a full-time job offer (at least 30 hours per week) from an employer accredited by INZ. Check the accredited employer list on the INZ website to verify employer status.
- Minimum Wage Requirement: As of March 10, 2025, your job must pay at least NZD $23.50 per hour, aligning with the New Zealand adult minimum wage. For high-paying roles (up to $100,000), your salary must match market rates for the role.
- Skill and Qualification Requirements:
- For ANZSCO skill levels 1-3 (higher-skilled jobs), you need relevant qualifications (e.g., a Bachelor’s degree) or work experience in the same field.
- For ANZSCO skill levels 4-5 (lower-skilled jobs), you may need a qualification at NZQCF Level 4 or higher, or equivalent work experience, unless exempt.
- A Bachelor’s degree or higher in any field is acceptable for most roles.
- Health and Character Checks: You must pass a medical exam and provide police clearance certificates to prove good health and character.
- English Language Proficiency: For ANZSCO skill level 4-5 jobs, you may need to demonstrate English proficiency unless exempt (e.g., Green List roles).
- Genuine Intentions: You must show intent to work in New Zealand, comply with visa conditions, and return home after your visa expires, unless pursuing residency.
Five High-Paying AEWV Jobs Paying Up to $100,000
Here are five AEWV-eligible jobs offering salaries up to $100,000, based on current market trends and job listings. These roles are in high-demand sectors, increasing your chances of securing a visa.
1. Software Developer (ANZSCO Level 1)
- Salary Range: NZD $80,000–$100,000
- Description: Software developers design and maintain applications, with strong demand in Auckland and Wellington’s tech hubs. Roles often involve coding in Python, Java, or C#.
- Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in computer science or equivalent experience; 2+ years of programming experience.
- Where to Apply: Check SEEK (www.seek.co.nz) for listings with accredited employers like Xero or Datacom.
2. Registered Nurse (ANZSCO Level 1)
- Salary Range: NZD $70,000–$95,000
- Description: Nurses are in high demand, especially in aged care and hospital settings. Green List roles offer residency pathways.
- Requirements: Nursing degree, registration with the Nursing Council of New Zealand, and English proficiency.
- Where to Apply: Health sector employers like Health New Zealand post vacancies on INZ-accredited lists.
3. Civil Engineer (ANZSCO Level 1)
- Salary Range: NZD $85,000–$100,000
- Description: Civil engineers manage infrastructure projects, such as roads and bridges, with opportunities in construction firms.
- Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering; 3+ years of experience preferred.
- Where to Apply: Look for roles with accredited employers like Fulton Hogan on SEEK.
4. Project Manager (Construction) (ANZSCO Level 1)
- Salary Range: NZD $90,000–$100,000
- Description: Project managers oversee construction projects, ensuring timely delivery within budget. High demand exists in Auckland and Christchurch.
- Requirements: Degree in project management or related field; 5+ years of experience.
- Where to Apply: Search for accredited employers on INZ’s website or job boards like Trade Me Jobs.
5. Data Analyst (ANZSCO Level 1)
- Salary Range: NZD $75,000–$95,000
- Description: Data analysts interpret complex datasets for businesses, with opportunities in finance and tech sectors.
- Requirements: Degree in statistics, data science, or related field; proficiency in SQL or Python.
- Where to Apply: Explore vacancies with accredited employers like ASB Bank on SEEK.
The AEWV Application Process: Step-by-Step
The AEWV process involves three key steps: employer accreditation, job check, and visa application. Here’s how it works:
Step 1: Employer Accreditation
Employers must be accredited by INZ to hire migrant workers. This ensures they meet employment and immigration standards, protecting workers from exploitation. Accreditation types include:
- Standard: For employers hiring up to 5 migrants (NZD $775 fee).
- High-Volume: For 6 or more migrants (NZD $1,280 fee).
- Franchise or Labour Hire: Requires annual renewals (NZD $4,060 fee).
Employers must renew accreditation every 12-24 months and comply with post-accreditation checks, with 16% of employers audited annually.
Step 2: Job Check
Once accredited, employers apply for a job check to confirm no suitable New Zealanders are available for the role. This may involve:
- Advertising the job for at least 2 weeks (unless exempt, e.g., Green List roles).
- Engaging with Work and Income for ANZSCO level 4-5 jobs to verify local worker availability.
The job check ensures the role pays market rates and meets employment standards. The fee is NZD $735.
Step 3: Visa Application
After the job check is approved, you can apply for the AEWV online through the INZ portal. You’ll need:
- A job offer letter detailing the employer’s name, job role, pay, and hours.
- Proof of qualifications or work experience (e.g., employment certificates, references).
- Health and character documents (e.g., medical certificate, police clearance).
- Evidence of English proficiency (if required).
- Application fee: NZD $1,630 (as of October 2024).
Processing times vary by sector and ANZSCO level, with Health and Education roles prioritized. Check INZ’s wait times page for updates.
Recent Changes to the AEWV (2025)
The AEWV scheme has undergone significant updates to streamline processes and protect workers. Key changes effective March 10, 2025, include:
- Removal of Median Wage Requirement: Replaced with market rates, with a minimum of NZD $23.50 per hour.
- Reduced Work Experience Requirements: Lower barriers for applicants, especially for ANZSCO level 4-5 roles.
- Streamlined Job Checks: Declarations replace some labor market tests, with further streamlining for low-risk employers by July 2025.
- Interim Visa Work Rights: AEWV applicants with existing work or student visas retain work rights while their application is processed.
- Increased Family Support Threshold: The minimum income to support dependent children’s visas rose to NZD $55,844.
These changes make the AEWV more accessible while maintaining robust checks to ensure fair employment practices.
Tips for Securing an AEWV Job
- Research Accredited Employers: Use INZ’s accredited employer list to find approved companies. Contact employers directly to confirm their accreditation status.
- Tailor Your CV: Highlight relevant qualifications and experience matching the job’s ANZSCO code. Avoid generic resumes; customize for each role.
- Leverage Job Boards: Platforms like SEEK and Trade Me Jobs list AEWV-eligible roles. Filter for “Accredited Employer” to find suitable vacancies.
- Work with Immigration Advisers: Licensed advisers, like those at Malcolm Pacific Immigration, can streamline your application and ensure compliance.
- Prepare for Interviews: Demonstrate your skills and enthusiasm for working in New Zealand. Highlight how your expertise fills a skill shortage.
Pathways to Residency
The AEWV can lead to permanent residency through:
- Green List Work to Residence: Roles like nurses and engineers may qualify after 2 years of work.
- Skilled Migrant Category: Earn points for skilled work experience, qualifications, and salary.
- Work to Residence Visas: Includes Care Workforce and Transport Sector pathways for specific roles.
To maximize your chances, ensure your job meets residency criteria (e.g., ANZSCO level 1-3, high salary) and maintain continuous employment.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
- Challenge: Finding an accredited employer.
- Solution: Use INZ’s online tool to verify employer accreditation and network through job fairs or LinkedIn.
- Challenge: Meeting skill requirements.
- Solution: Provide detailed evidence of work experience, such as employer references or certificates, to meet INZ standards.
- Challenge: Delays in processing.
- Solution: Submit complete applications with all required documents to avoid requests for additional information.
- Challenge: Visa condition changes.
- Solution: If your job or employer changes, apply for a Job Change or variation of conditions promptly.
Why Work in New Zealand?
New Zealand offers a unique blend of career growth and lifestyle benefits:
- High Salaries: Competitive pay in skilled sectors, with opportunities for overtime.
- Work-Life Balance: Enjoy a culture that values leisure, with access to stunning beaches, mountains, and cities.
- Safe Environment: New Zealand ranks among the safest countries globally, ideal for families.
- Cultural Diversity: A welcoming multicultural society with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Conclusion
The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) is your pathway to securing high-paying jobs in New Zealand, with salaries up to $100,000 in fields like IT, healthcare, and engineering.
By understanding the eligibility criteria, navigating the application process, and targeting accredited employers, you can turn your dream of working in New Zealand into reality.
Explore high-demand roles like software developer, registered nurse, or civil engineer, and leverage job boards like SEEK to find opportunities.
With pathways to residency and family support options, the AEWV is more than a visa—it’s a step toward a brighter future in one of the world’s most beautiful countries.
Ready to start your journey? Check INZ’s accredited employer list, apply for high-paying jobs, and consult licensed immigration advisers to ensure a smooth process. Your New Zealand adventure awaits!