In 2025, New Zealand’s Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) program continues to be the primary pathway for foreign workers. To apply, you must have a job offer from an employer accredited by Immigration New Zealand (INZ). Knowing how to identify these employers is the first step toward securing legal employment. This guide explains how to find accredited employers that sponsor work visas in New Zealand, which industries are hiring, and the strategies you can use to improve your chances of success.
What Is an Accredited Employer in New Zealand?
An accredited employer is a company approved by Immigration New Zealand to hire foreign workers. Accreditation ensures that the employer meets labour standards, pays fair wages, and has a genuine need for overseas workers. Only accredited employers can sponsor foreign employees under the AEWV system.
Where to Find the List of Accredited Employers
Immigration New Zealand publishes and regularly updates the list of accredited employers. You can find it on the official Immigration New Zealand website. The list includes company names, accreditation status, and sometimes the regions they operate in.
Industries With the Most Accredited Employers
Some sectors employ more foreign workers than others and therefore have a higher number of accredited employers.
| Industry | Examples of Accredited Employers | Roles Commonly Sponsored | Average Pay (NZD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Healthcare | District Health Boards, Private Hospitals, Aged Care Facilities | Nurses, Caregivers, Doctors, Pharmacists | $70,000 – $120,000/year |
| Construction & Trades | Fletcher Construction, Downer, Hawkins | Electricians, Carpenters, Welders, Labourers | $55,000 – $95,000/year |
| Information Technology | Xero, Datacom, Spark | Software Developers, Cybersecurity Analysts, Data Engineers | $80,000 – $130,000/year |
| Agriculture & Horticulture | Zespri, Fonterra, DairyNZ | Fruit Pickers, Farm Assistants, Seasonal Workers | $23 – $30/hour |
| Hospitality & Tourism | SkyCity, Millennium Hotels, Tourism Holdings | Chefs, Hotel Staff, Tour Operators | $22 – $28/hour |
Steps to Find Accredited Employers
- Check the INZ Accredited Employer List: Visit the official Immigration New Zealand website and download the most recent list.
- Use Job Portals: Websites like Seek.co.nz, Trade Me Jobs, and WorkHere allow you to filter jobs by “visa sponsorship available.”
- Search Employer Websites: Many accredited employers advertise vacancies directly on their websites.
- Contact Recruitment Agencies: Some agencies specialize in connecting foreign workers with accredited employers.
- Attend Career Fairs: Universities and regional councils host job fairs where accredited employers recruit international talent.
How to Approach Accredited Employers
- Prepare a professional CV and cover letter tailored to New Zealand standards.
- Highlight transferable skills, especially if you have international experience.
- Emphasize willingness to work in regional areas, where shortages are often most severe.
- Be transparent about your need for visa sponsorship—accredited employers are familiar with the process.
Tips to Improve Your Chances
- Target industries on the Green List (healthcare, engineering, IT) for faster residency pathways.
- Apply early in the year, as some visa categories and employer quotas fill quickly.
- Consider entry-level or regional roles if highly competitive positions are difficult to secure.
- Stay updated with policy changes on the Immigration New Zealand website.
Benefits of Working With Accredited Employers
- Eligibility to apply for AEWV and long-term work opportunities.
- Higher chance of permanent residency after 2–3 years of employment.
- Employer-provided relocation packages in many industries.
- Job security in industries facing ongoing labour shortages.
Conclusion
Finding an accredited employer in New Zealand is the most important step in securing a work visa. By using the official INZ accredited employer list, applying through job portals, and targeting industries with the highest demand, foreign workers can significantly increase their chances of sponsorship. With opportunities in healthcare, IT, construction, agriculture, and hospitality, 2025 is an excellent year to take advantage of New Zealand’s labour shortages and transition toward permanent residency.