Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) 2026: Salary Thresholds and How to Qualify

Imagine filling a critical role in your Kiwi business but struggling to find the right local talent. The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) in 2026 offers a practical solution, letting accredited employers hire skilled migrants while meeting strict salary thresholds and qualification rules. Whether you're an employer navigating accreditation or a migrant eyeing opportunities Down Under, understanding the latest 2026 updates is key to success.

What is the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)?

The AEWV is New Zealand's main temporary work visa for skilled migrants, designed to fill genuine skill shortages without undercutting local workers. Launched to replace the Essential Skills visa, it puts employers in the driver's seat through a three-step process: accreditation, job check, and visa application. In 2026, it supports up to five years of stay for most roles, helping businesses thrive while migrants contribute to our economy.

For Kiwis, this means more competition for jobs is managed carefully—employers must prove they've tried hiring locals first. Recent expansions added 47 occupations to the National Occupation List from March 2026, opening doors for roles like IT specialists and healthcare workers.

Key Changes and Updates for AEWV in 2026

Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has tightened rules to prioritise high-skilled migrants and fair wages. Expect stricter English language requirements for ANZSCO skill levels 4 and 5 (lower-skilled roles), minimum skills and work experience thresholds, and mandatory engagement with Work and Income (WINZ) before approving these positions. Salary thresholds have risen to ensure migrants aren't paid less than Kiwis in similar roles, aligning with market rates.

Salary Thresholds for 2026

The cornerstone of AEWV eligibility is meeting minimum salary thresholds, updated for 2026 to reflect living costs and wage growth. While exact figures can vary by role and ANZSCO level, base salaries must hit at least NZ$79,560 for many skilled positions—though higher thresholds apply for median wage roles or those on the Green List. Employment must be full-time (at least 30 hours/week), paid via lawful payroll, and include Kiwi-standard conditions like holidays and ACC coverage.

• Skilled roles (ANZSCO 1-3): Must pay at or above the median wage, currently around NZ$31.61/hour or NZ$65,000+ annually.
• Lower-skilled (ANZSCO 4-5): New English and experience minimums apply; salaries must match market rates verified via Job Check.
• Tip: Use INZ's wage comparison tool or check with Employment New Zealand to confirm your offer complies.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Qualify for AEWV in 2026

Qualifying involves coordination between employer and worker. Here's the breakdown for New Zealand employers and migrants alike.

Step 1: Employer Accreditation

Employers must first get accredited by INZ, proving they're legit, financially stable, and committed to training Kiwis. Choose from:

• Standard: Up to 5 migrants; initial 12 months, renewable for 24.
• High-volume: 6+ migrants; for bigger operations.
• Franchise: Extra criteria for labour hire or third-party placements.

Requirements include sound finances (revenue/profit proof), HR policies, and no employment law breaches. Labour Inspectorate checks for compliance. Apply via immigration.govt.nz—fees start at NZ$750.

Step 2: Job Check Approval

Once accredited, submit a Job Check showing you've advertised the role (e.g., on Seek or Trade Me) and couldn't find a suitable Kiwi. Provide job description, employment agreement, and proof of market salary. For levels 4-5, consult WINZ first. Approval confirms the role is genuine and pays fairly.

Step 3: Worker Visa Application

Migrants apply online after receiving the job offer link from the employer. Key qualifications:

• Age 55 or under for most roles.
• Matching skills, qualifications, and 2+ years' experience (higher for some jobs).
• Health/character checks: Medical exam, police certificates.
• English proficiency for lower-skilled roles.
• NZ registration if required (e.g., nurses via Nursing Council).

Visa length matches job offer (up to 5 years); conditions include settlement support and completing Employment NZ's online modules within one month.

Practical Tips for Employers Hiring Under AEWV

As a Kiwi business owner, make the process smooth:

1. Start early: Accreditation takes 10-20 working days; factor in peak seasons.
2. Advertise widely: Use govt-approved channels and keep records for Job Check.
3. Draft solid agreements: Outline duties, pay (above threshold), hours, and ACC/WINZ compliance.
4. Support your hire: Provide induction, KiwiSaver enrolment, and training access.
5. Avoid pitfalls: Stay off the non-compliant employers list—regular audits help.

Example: A Wellington café chain got high-volume accreditation to hire chefs at NZ$85,000/year, filling shortages after local ads failed.

Advice for Migrants: Boost Your AEWV Chances

Tailor your CV to the job check specs. Get qualifications assessed via NZQA if needed, and prepare for English tests like IELTS for level 4-5 roles. Check the accredited employer list on immigration.govt.nz before applying. Pro tip: Network on LinkedIn with Kiwi firms in shortage areas like tech or construction.

Next Steps to Get Started

Employers: Log into immigration.govt.nz to apply for accreditation today—it's your gateway to global talent. Migrants: Search the accredited employer list and polish your application docs. Consult licensed advisers via iaa.govt.nz for personalised help, and stay updated via INZ alerts. With 2026's tweaks favouring skilled, well-paid roles, now's the time to act and build a stronger workforce for Aotearoa.