New Zealand Work Visa 2025: Top Companies Sponsoring Foreign Workers
New Zealand remains one of the world’s most attractive destinations for skilled professionals and tradespeople. With a stable economy, excellent quality of life, and rising demand for labour across multiple industries, the country is actively inviting qualified foreign workers to apply for positions through its Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) program in 2025.
This visa route allows international candidates to live and work legally in New Zealand, backed by government-accredited employers who are authorised to hire talent from abroad. In 2025, this system continues to open doors for workers in healthcare, construction, IT, logistics, agriculture, and more.
What is the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)?
The Accredited Employer Work Visa is New Zealand’s primary visa route for skilled workers entering the country for employment. Under this scheme, only employers who have gained official accreditation from Immigration New Zealand can offer jobs to foreign applicants.
This visa was introduced to ensure that:
- Employers meet fair labour standards
- Foreign workers are protected
- New Zealand’s critical labour shortages are addressed promptly
A major advantage of the AEWV is that it streamlines the hiring process. Once an accredited employer offers you a role, and it meets all the requirements, you can apply for your visa without needing to go through the traditional job market advertising and employer approval stages.
Benefits of the AEWV in 2025
- Work legally in New Zealand for up to 3 years, with options to extend
- Fast visa processing, often within 20 to 30 working days
- Opportunity to bring your spouse and dependent children
- Spouse can usually work full-time, and children can attend school for free
- Pathway to residency for workers in certain sectors or who meet the Green List criteria
- Avoid unnecessary bureaucracy — once you have an eligible job offer, the process is straightforward
Who Can Apply for the AEWV?
To be eligible for this visa, you must:
- Have a job offer from an accredited employer
- The employer must be listed with Immigration New Zealand as eligible to sponsor foreign workers.
- Meet the minimum salary requirements
- Most jobs must pay at least the current median wage (as of 2025: NZD $29.66/hour), unless exempt under specific sector agreements.
- Demonstrate relevant work experience or qualifications
- This depends on the job but usually involves formal training, experience, or certification.
- Meet character and health standards
- This includes police clearance, medical examination, and sometimes chest x-ray requirements.
- Meet English language requirements (if applicable)
- For some occupations (especially in health and education), a proven level of English proficiency is required.
Job Sectors in High Demand in 2025
Healthcare
New Zealand’s aging population and expanding care needs have created a significant demand for health professionals. The healthcare sector welcomes foreign-trained staff for roles such as:
- Registered nurses
- Aged care workers
- Disability support workers
- Healthcare assistants
- Mental health specialists
These jobs often come with relocation packages, training support, and fast-tracked residency options.
Construction
Ongoing infrastructure development has created a consistent demand for trades and skilled labour. Roles in this sector include:
- Carpenters
- Electricians
- Scaffolders
- Roofers
- Project site supervisors
- Heavy equipment operators
These roles typically pay above the median wage and are ideal for those with formal trade certification or significant hands-on experience.
Information Technology
New Zealand’s digital economy is growing fast, and the local workforce can’t fill the demand. Employers are hiring for roles such as:
- Software developers
- Data engineers
- Cybersecurity analysts
- IT support specialists
- Cloud infrastructure technicians
Experience is key here, and many roles may lead to pathways on New Zealand’s Green List, enabling fast residency.
Logistics and Supply Chain
To support its agricultural and import/export economy, New Zealand relies on efficient logistics. In 2025, there is strong demand for:
- Freight and delivery truck drivers
- Warehouse assistants
- Forklift operators
- Distribution center managers
Many of these roles require a local or convertible driving licence and basic English skills.
Agriculture and Primary Industries
These sectors remain the backbone of New Zealand’s economy. Work is available in:
- Dairy and livestock farming
- Fruit and vegetable harvesting
- Forestry operations
- Greenhouse and nursery production
- Food and meat processing
While some of these jobs are seasonal, many full-time positions fall under AEWV, especially in remote regions.
Hospitality and Tourism
As travel rebounds globally, hotels, resorts, and restaurants are hiring for:
- Chefs (qualified with international experience)
- Restaurant supervisors
- Baristas and hospitality managers
- Housekeeping and room attendants
Top Companies Sponsoring Foreign Workers in New Zealand (2025)
Here are some leading accredited employers in New Zealand that are actively hiring internationally:
Ryman Healthcare
One of the country’s largest aged care providers, Ryman Healthcare recruits:
- Registered nurses
- Caregivers
- Clinical support staff
Many of their roles offer relocation assistance and support with professional registration.
Fletcher Construction
A major player in New Zealand’s construction industry. They sponsor roles such as:
- Site engineers
- Project managers
- Structural technicians
- Labourers with trade qualifications
Datacom
A leading IT company operating across New Zealand and Australia. Foreign workers are hired for:
- Software development
- Network security
- Technical support roles
Their jobs often offer high salaries and remote/hybrid working conditions.
Downer Group
Specialists in infrastructure, Downer hires across:
- Roading and civil construction
- Traffic management
- Heavy machinery operations
They support visa applications for workers with experience in large-scale projects.
Compass Group NZ
A key hospitality provider for hospitals, schools, and workplaces. Positions include:
- Chefs
- Kitchen assistants
- Cleaning and catering staff
No formal degree is needed — just practical experience and willingness to work.
Mainfreight
A logistics and transportation company offering roles in:
- Freight handling
- Warehouse management
- Long-haul trucking
They often provide training and sponsor Class 4/5 licence conversions.
How to Apply for a Sponsored Job in New Zealand
Step 1: Search for Jobs with Accredited Employers
Visit reputable job boards:
- Seek New Zealand
- Trade Me Jobs
- Work Here NZ
Search using keywords such as:
- “Visa sponsorship”
- “AEWV eligible”
- “Accredited employer”
Always check that the employer is listed on the official Immigration NZ accreditation list.
Step 2: Apply Directly with a NZ-Format CV
Prepare a New Zealand-style CV, which is generally more concise and results-focused. Include a tailored cover letter for each application.
Step 3: Secure an Offer of Employment
Once shortlisted, employers may schedule interviews via Zoom or phone. If successful, you’ll receive a formal job offer outlining role details and salary.
Step 4: Employer Applies for a Job Check
Before you apply for the visa, your employer will need to complete a Job Check confirming the position is legitimate and necessary.
Step 5: Submit Your AEWV Application
Once the job check is approved, you can apply online at the Immigration New Zealand website. Provide your:
- Passport
- Job offer
- Proof of experience or qualifications
- Medical and character documentation
Processing generally takes 3–5 weeks, depending on case volume and completeness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need a job before applying for the AEWV?
Yes. You must secure a job offer from an accredited employer before applying for the visa.
Can I bring my family with me?
Yes. If your job pays above the median wage, you can bring your spouse (who can work) and dependent children (who can attend school).
Is this visa renewable?
Yes. Most AEWVs are issued for 3 years and can be extended or transitioned into residency pathways.
Do I need to take an English test?
Not all jobs require it, but higher-skilled roles (like in education or healthcare) may require an English language certificate such as IELTS.
Can I apply for permanent residency later?
Yes. Many AEWV holders become eligible for residency, especially if their job is on the Green List or they’ve been in New Zealand for a certain period.
Conclusions
New Zealand’s Accredited Employer Work Visa offers one of the most efficient and secure pathways to working and settling in a world-class country. With labour shortages across multiple industries, accredited employers are welcoming skilled international candidates with open arms in 2025.
If you have the skills, experience, and readiness to relocate — now is the time to take action. Apply to accredited companies, prepare a strong application, and set your course toward a rewarding life and career in New Zealand.
