Your guide to hiring migrant workers under the AEWV

If you cannot find suitable New Zealanders for a role you are advertising, you can apply to hire migrants on the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV).

Immigration New Zealand has procedures in place to ensure that your business is viable, meets immigration and employment standards, and will not exploit the migrants you might hire. This guide is an overview of the process for hiring migrants under the AEWV and does not apply to employers hiring migrants through other visa schemes.

NOTE: Updated requirements to the AEWV for both employers and employees are being implemented throughout 2025. Please check back frequently for updates to ensure you have the most up-to-date information.