WorkVisas&AEWV
Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) applications, employer accreditation, job checks, and work visa support for Auckland.
How we can help
The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) is the primary pathway for overseas workers to take up employment in New Zealand. The process involves three distinct stages: employer accreditation, a job check with the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE), and the worker's visa application itself. Each stage has its own set of requirements under the Immigration Act 2009, and errors or omissions at any point can result in costly delays or outright declines. Indus Legal guides both employers and visa applicants through every stage, ensuring documentation is thorough, compliant, and submitted correctly the first time.
Our Auckland immigration lawyers advise businesses across South Auckland, Botany, East Tamaki, and the wider Auckland region on gaining and maintaining employer accreditation - including meeting the employment, workplace, and immigration compliance standards that Immigration New Zealand assesses. For workers, we prepare strong visa applications that demonstrate genuine skill, relevant qualifications, and appropriate remuneration, addressing median wage thresholds and sector-specific requirements.
Whether you are a small business hiring your first overseas employee or a large organisation managing multiple AEWV holders, Indus Legal provides practical, commercially-minded advice tailored to your situation. We also assist with variations to visa conditions, employer-led visa renewals, and transitions from AEWV to residence pathways.
What we help with
- Employer accreditation applications (standard and high-volume) with MBIE
- Job check applications including labour market testing and median wage compliance
- Individual AEWV applications for skilled and essential workers
- Visa condition variations and renewal applications
- Advice on transitioning AEWV holders to Skilled Migrant residence pathways
- Compliance support for accredited employers to maintain accreditation standards
Frequently asked questions
What are the three stages of the AEWV process?
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The AEWV process involves three steps: first, the employer must obtain accreditation from Immigration New Zealand; second, a job check must be approved to confirm the role meets wage and labour market requirements; and third, the worker submits their individual visa application. All three must be completed for the visa to be granted.
How long does an AEWV take to process?
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Processing times vary, but employer accreditation typically takes 10-20 working days, job checks around 10-15 working days, and the visa application itself around 20 working days. Incomplete applications or requests for further information can extend these timeframes significantly, which is why getting it right the first time matters.
Can an AEWV holder change employers?
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An AEWV is tied to the specific employer and role approved in the job check. If you wish to change employers, your new employer must hold their own accreditation, complete a new job check, and you will need to submit a new visa application. Indus Legal can manage this transition process for both parties.
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