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The New Zealand Work Visa most commonly used by skilled workers is the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV). Under this route, you must have a job offer from a New Zealand employer that is accredited by Immigration New Zealand (INZ). Nurses, engineers, IT workers, chefs and trades workers from Kerala use the AEWV to work in New Zealand.
This guide explains how the New Zealand Work Visa works, how to check accredited employers, registration for nurses, and safety tips.
New Zealand Work Visa – AEWV Basics
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Visa | Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) |
| Employer | Must be accredited by Immigration New Zealand |
| Job check | Employer completes a job check before you apply |
| Pay rules | Job must meet the wage rules for the visa |
| Official website | immigration.govt.nz |
Three-Step AEWV Process
- Employer accreditation: The employer applies to Immigration New Zealand to become accredited.
- Job check: The employer shows the job meets pay and labour market requirements.
- Worker application: You apply for the New Zealand Work Visa with the job check reference, passport, qualifications, health and character documents.
How to Check an Accredited Employer
Immigration New Zealand publishes a list of accredited employers on its website. Search the employer’s name before accepting any offer. If the employer is not accredited, it cannot support an AEWV.
Nurses in New Zealand
- Nurses must register with the Nursing Council of New Zealand.
- Internationally qualified nurses may need to complete a competence assessment programme or the newer assessment pathway, as set by the Council.
- English requirements (IELTS/OET) apply.
Pathways to Residence
Some AEWV holders may become eligible for residence through skilled migrant or green list pathways, depending on occupation, qualifications and pay. Rules change, so check official INZ guidance.
Scam Warning
- Immigration New Zealand warns against paying for jobs or “visa guarantees”.
- Employers are not allowed to charge workers premiums for a job.
- Verify licensed immigration advisers on the Immigration Advisers Authority register.
Read our overseas job fraud guide.
Popular Jobs for Kerala Applicants
- Registered nurses and healthcare assistants
- Engineers and construction trades
- IT professionals
- Chefs and hospitality staff
- Dairy farm and agriculture workers
Step-by-Step Plan
- Check your occupation and registration needs.
- Take an English test.
- Search jobs on reliable portals and accredited employer websites.
- Confirm the employer is accredited.
- Apply for the New Zealand Work Visa only after the job check is approved.
New Zealand Work Visa: Quick Safety Checklist
Before you act on any offer related to New Zealand Work Visa, go through this short checklist. It takes only a few minutes and can save you lakhs of rupees.
- Confirm the employer and the job on the official government portal of the destination country.
- Keep copies of the offer letter, contract, visa and every payment receipt.
- Never pay more than the legal service charge to a recruiting agent in India (₹30,000 plus GST for MEA-registered agents).
- Complete emigration clearance on eMigrate if your passport is ECR.
- Save the contact details of the Indian Embassy and the MADAD portal before you travel.
Following these steps makes your New Zealand Work Visa journey safer and smoother.
We review and update this New Zealand Work Visa guide whenever official notices or rules change. Bookmark this page, share it with friends who need it, and always confirm the latest details on the official website before you take any step.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main New Zealand Work Visa for skilled workers?
The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV).
Can any employer sponsor an AEWV?
No. Only employers accredited by Immigration New Zealand.
Do nurses need registration?
Yes. Registration with the Nursing Council of New Zealand is required.
How do I check if an immigration adviser is licensed?
Through the Immigration Advisers Authority register.
Related: New Zealand Jobs | International Jobs
Disclaimer: Kerala Job News is not affiliated with any government department, recruiting body or employer mentioned here. This article is compiled from Immigration New Zealand information for general information only. Details can change, so always confirm on the official website before you apply or pay any fee. Kerala Job News never charges money for job information.
