Accredited Employer in New Zealand

The Accredited Employer scheme is a cornerstone of New Zealand’s modern immigration framework, enabling businesses to hire skilled overseas workers more efficiently. Employers who achieve accreditation with Immigration New Zealand (INZ) gain access to a simplified visa process, ensuring quicker hiring timelines and compliance confidence.

Key Features of the Accredited Employer Scheme:

• Employer Accreditation: Businesses must complete INZ’s accreditation process, demonstrating ethical employment practices, compliance with immigration and labour laws, and a genuine commitment to hiring and developing New Zealanders.
• Streamlined Visa Pathways: Accredited employers can offer roles to overseas candidates and support visa applications under the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) system, significantly reducing processing delays.
• Covered Visa Categories: The scheme primarily supports the AEWV but also complements pathways like the Skilled Migrant Category and Talent Work Visa options for long-term employees.
• Employer Responsibilities: Accredited employers must uphold fair pay standards, provide accurate information to INZ, and assist employees in settling and integrating successfully in New Zealand.
• Employee Eligibility: Overseas candidates must meet INZ’s health, character, and skill criteria and must hold a genuine job offer from an accredited employer in a qualifying occupation.

Application Process for Employer Accreditation:

• 1. Eligibility Check: Employers first review INZ’s accreditation requirements to ensure they meet compliance, financial stability, and workforce training criteria.
• 2. Submit Application: The employer submits detailed business information and supporting documentation through INZ’s online platform, outlining their recruitment needs and employment policies.
• 3. Assessment & Decision: INZ evaluates the application based on employment standards, company reputation, and adherence to immigration law. Successful applicants are granted accredited status.
• 4. Ongoing Compliance: Once accredited, employers must maintain good standing by meeting ongoing reporting obligations and adhering to INZ’s conditions throughout the accreditation period.

Becoming an Accredited Employer is essential for New Zealand businesses that wish to recruit skilled migrants under the AEWV and other work visa categories. At Visa2Migrate, we provide full-service support — from preparing documentation to managing compliance audits — ensuring your organization remains compliant and competitive in New Zealand’s evolving immigration landscape.