How To Apply for Employer Accreditation NZ Under the AEWV Scheme

Becoming an Accredited Employer in New Zealand is the essential first step for any business aiming to hire skilled migrant workers under the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) scheme. At Immigration Chambers, we assist employers in navigating the entire Employer Accreditation NZ process, from preparing an accredited employer application to ensuring full compliance with Immigration New Zealand (INZ) standards for long-term workforce success.

Understanding Employer Accreditation NZ

Employer Accreditation NZ is a formal recognition granted by Immigration New Zealand (INZ) confirming that your business meets the ethical, legal, and financial standards required to employ migrant workers. It ensures that your company upholds fair employment practices, maintains sustainable operations, and supports the welfare of migrant employees.

Businesses seeking to hire under the Accredited Employer Work Visa NZ must obtain accreditation before offering any employment to overseas applicants. The accreditation process not only authorizes recruitment but also strengthens your company’s credibility with INZ and skilled migrants worldwide.

Why Employer Accreditation NZ Matters

Holding Employer Accreditation demonstrates that your organisation:

• Has a genuine and sustainable need for migrant workers where no suitable New Zealanders are available.

• Offers fair and compliant employment agreements under New Zealand’s labour laws.

• Provides settlement support and welfare guidance for migrant employees.

• Maintains robust HR and compliance systems.

• Promotes ethical recruitment practices and prevents migrant exploitation.

Additionally, Employer Accreditation allows you to sponsor both accredited employer applications and resident visa categories under the AEWV framework.

Types of Employer Accreditation in 2025

Immigration New Zealand provides several categories of accreditation depending on the size and nature of your hiring operations.

1. Standard Accreditation

Ideal for employers hiring up to five migrant workers.
Requirements include:

• Proof of genuine, sustainable business activity.

• Full compliance with immigration and employment laws.

• Commitment to employee support and integration.

2. High-Volume Accreditation

For employers hiring six or more migrant workers.
Additional requirements:

• Demonstration of advanced HR systems and compliance processes.

• Workforce planning and retention strategies.

3. Franchisee Accreditation

For businesses operating under a franchise model.
You must show:

• Financial independence and control over operations.

• Adherence to franchise standards and INZ compliance requirements.

4. Controlling Third-Party Accreditation

For labour hire or recruitment agencies placing migrants with other businesses.
You must ensure:

• Third-party employers meet INZ and labour law standards.

• Migrants are protected from exploitation and receive fair pay.

Eligibility Criteria for NZ Employer Accreditation

To qualify for Employer Accreditation, your business must:

• Be lawfully registered and operating in New Zealand.

• Maintain financial stability and tax compliance.

• Have transparent ownership and governance structures.

• Provide compliant employment agreements covering pay, leave, and working conditions.

• Follow ethical recruitment practices that protect migrant rights.

• Offer settlement support for new employees integrating into New Zealand life.

Don’t miss this: Accredited Employer Visa Adds New National Occupation List Occupations

How To Apply for Employer Accreditation NZ

Step 1: Prepare Documentation

Before submitting your accredited employer application, ensure you have the following:

• NZBN (New Zealand Business Number)

• IRD registration

• Financial statements

• HR and recruitment policies

• Settlement support plans

Step 2: Submit Online Application

Submit your application through the Immigration New Zealand online portal. You’ll need to:

• Select the appropriate accreditation type.

• Upload supporting documents.

• Pay the relevant application fee.

Step 3: INZ Assessment

INZ evaluates your business based on:

• Financial viability and sustainability.

• Compliance history with tax and employment laws.

• HR systems and employee welfare measures.

Step 4: Accreditation Approval

Once approved, your business becomes officially Accredited, allowing you to hire workers under the Accredited Employer Work Visa NZ category.

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