From 8 April 2025, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has introduced interim work rights for people applying for an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV). This important change allows eligible applicants to start working in their AEWV role sooner—before their visa is officially approved.
What Changed?
Previously, AEWV applicants had to wait until their visa application was approved before they could begin working. Now, if you applied for an AEWV on or after 8 April 2025 and already hold a valid work visa (of any kind) or a student visa with work rights, you will automatically be granted an interim visa with work rights.
This means you can:
- Start your job immediately in the role listed in your AEWV application.
- Use this work experience to contribute toward your Work to Residence pathway.
- Continue working for up to 21 days after a visa decision if your AEWV is declined.
Note: If your AEWV is declined, your interim visa with work rights will expire 21 days after the decision.
Who is Eligible?
To qualify for interim work rights, you must:
- Hold a current work visa or a student visa with work rights.
- Apply for an AEWV and receive an Interim Visa on or after 8 April 2025.
Why This Matters
This change reflects the government’s ongoing effort to make immigration more flexible and responsive to the needs of New Zealand employers—especially in high-demand sectors and regions.
As more updates roll out through 2025, employers and migrants alike can expect improved processing times and better pathways toward long-term residence.
Need help understanding how these changes affect you?
At Visa Advisers, we specialise in guiding migrants through every stage of the Immigration process. As expats ourselves, we know how important it is to get expert advice you can trust. Whether you’re applying for your first work visa or planning your pathway to residence, our friendly team is here to make the process clear, smooth, and stress-free.
Get in touch with us today—we’re here to help you make New Zealand your new home.