If your business is planning to hire skilled migrant workers in New Zealand, the very first step is to become an accredited employer. This accreditation process is designed not only to help fill genuine skill shortages but also to ensure New Zealanders are given priority for job opportunities.
Getting Started: Are You Ready to Apply?
Before you begin the application process, it’s important to check whether your business meets Immigration New Zealand’s (INZ) accreditation requirements. At a minimum, you’ll need a few key pieces of information: your New Zealand Business Number (NZBN), Business Industry Classification (BIC) code, and your Inland Revenue number.
Choosing the Right Accreditation Type
There are three options depending on how many migrant workers you intend to employ.
- Standard Accreditation is for employers hiring up to five workers and has a lower application fee.
- High-Volume Accreditation is designed for businesses bringing in six or more workers and comes with a higher fee.
- There are also special categories, such as for franchises and labour hire companies, which involve stricter requirements and higher fees—but no cap on the number of migrant workers.
It’s important to note that some visa types, like working holiday or post-study work visas, don’t count toward your AEWV (Accredited Employer Work Visa) worker numbers.
Applying for Employer Accreditation
Once you’ve chosen the appropriate accreditation type, you’ll complete an online application and pay the fee. INZ will then review your submission and notify you via email once a decision is made. With your accreditation in place, you’re one step closer to hiring overseas talent.
Preparing the Advertisment
Before hiring a migrant worker, you may need to advertise the position to ensure there are no suitable New Zealanders available. This is especially important for lower-skilled roles (ANZSCO skill level 4 or 5), which might also require you to engage with Work and Income. This part of the process demonstrates that employing a migrant worker is a genuine last resort.
Submitting a Job Check
After your accreditation is approved and your job advertisement has closed, you’ll submit what’s known as a Job Check. This confirms to INZ that your recruitment efforts were genuine and that your role complies with New Zealand’s employment laws. A Job Check can cover multiple vacancies for the same role and is valid for up to six months (or until your accreditation expires).
Hiring Migrant Workers
Once the Job Check is approved, you can formally offer the job to your preferred migrant candidate. At this point, they’ll apply for the AEWV, submitting documentation to show they meet the required skills, experience, or qualifications.
Meeting Ongoing Obligations
Being an accredited employer means maintaining certain responsibilities. You’ll need to provide your migrant workers with clear information about living and working in New Zealand, support their settlement, and ensure they’re not charged any recruitment-related fees. Ongoing compliance with INZ standards is essential—not just during hiring, but throughout the worker’s employment.
Renewals, Changes, and What Happens if Accreditation Is Revoked
Your initial accreditation lasts for 12 months. You can apply to renew or adjust your accreditation at any time. If, for any reason, your accreditation is suspended or revoked, you won’t be able to hire new AEWV workers—but those already in New Zealand can continue working.
Need Help Navigating the Process?
Employer accreditation doesn’t have to be complex. Our team offers end-to-end support—from helping prepare your accreditation application to guiding you through the Job Check and assisting your migrant employee with their visa application.
If you’re considering high-volume hiring or planning ahead for growth, now is the time to act. Requirements may tighten in the future, and early preparation can save time and avoid delays.
Let us help you bring in the talent your business needs—without the stress.