Visa Pathways
Work Visa
Work visas allow you to live and work in New Zealand. The Accredited Employer Work Visa is the most common pathway, requiring an accredited employer and an approved job check. Other work visas apply to specific purposes and short-term engagements.
Last reviewed: August 2026
At a glance
Work in New Zealand with employer support or under a specific purpose.
Who this may be suitable for
- Skilled workers with a New Zealand job offer
- People with specialist skills for a defined purpose
- Workers on a recognised pathway toward residence
Basic features
Employer must generally be accredited
Tied to a specific employer and role
Wage and skill thresholds apply
May be a stepping stone to residence
Typical five-step process
1
Confirm the employer is accredited
2
Obtain an approved job check
3
Lodge the work visa application with supporting evidence
4
Meet health, character, and English requirements
5
Receive a decision and begin employment
Documents and evidence
- Employment agreement and job description
- Qualifications and registrations
- Health and character evidence
- Employer accreditation and job check references
- Evidence of relevant experience
Common risk areas
- Employer accreditation gaps
- Role below required wage threshold
- Incomplete qualification evidence
- Previous visa history concerns
Frequently asked questions
Can I change employers on a work visa?
- Most AEWVs are tied to a specific employer. Changing employers usually requires a new job check and a variation of conditions or a new visa. We can review your situation.
How long does an AEWV take?
- Processing times vary. Having strong, complete evidence and an accredited employer helps reduce delays.
Does a work visa lead to residence?
- Some work visas can form part of a pathway to residence, but it depends on your occupation, time in New Zealand, and the applicable rules at the time.
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Book a ConsultationThe information on this website is general in nature and does not constitute personalised immigration advice. Immigration instructions and eligibility requirements may change. An assessment of your individual circumstances is required before advice can be provided.