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.
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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.
Validity and Renewal of Accreditation
- Initial Employer Accreditation NZ approval is valid for 12 months.
- Renewal accreditation may extend up to 24 months, depending on compliance and performance.
- INZ may audit accredited employers to ensure ongoing compliance and fair employment practices.
Common Reasons for Application Rejection or Delays
- Missing or incomplete documents.
- Unresolved tax or legal issues.
- Poor HR systems or employee disputes.
- Lack of migrant settlement support.
A well-prepared accredited employer application with transparent documentation and strong compliance systems increases your approval success rate.
Responsibilities After Gaining Employer Accreditation
Once accredited, your obligations include:
- Maintaining up-to-date records of all migrant employees.
- Reporting business ownership or structure changes to INZ.
- Adhering to all immigration and employment regulations.
- Providing settlement and integration support for all migrant workers.
How Accreditation Supports Resident Visa Applications
Obtaining Employer Accreditation NZ doesn’t just enable work visa sponsorship, it also supports key residence visa pathways, including:
- Skilled Migrant Category
- Green List Work to Residence
- Care Workforce and Transport Work to Residence Visas
Accreditation ensures a smoother Accredited Employer Work Visa NZ process for both employers and employees, improving visa outcomes and workforce retention.
Processing Time and Fees
Processing times typically range from 10 to 30 working days, depending on application volume and complexity.
Fees (as of 2025):
- Standard Accreditation: NZD $740
- High-Volume Accreditation: NZD $1,220
- Franchisee / Controlling Third-Party: NZD $1,980
Renewal fees vary according to accreditation type and status.
How Immigration Chambers Can Help
At Immigration Chambers, we offer comprehensive support for employers pursuing Employer Accreditation NZ and the Accredited Employer Work Visa NZ process.
Our expert services include:
- Assessing eligibility and readiness for accreditation.
- Preparing and reviewing documentation for INZ submission.
- Guiding you through the online accredited employer application process.
- Assisting with renewals and post-accreditation compliance.
- Providing legal and strategic advice to ensure long-term compliance success.
Get Accredited with Confidence
Becoming an Accredited Employer opens your business to global talent while ensuring compliance with Immigration New Zealand standards. Get in touch with our Immigration Adviser New Zealand today to simplify your Employer Accreditation journey and start hiring skilled migrant workers under the Accredited Employer Work Visa NZ with confidence.
FAQs
1. What is Employer Accreditation NZ?
It is an approval from Immigration New Zealand allowing employers to hire migrant workers under the AEWV scheme, ensuring compliance with labour and immigration laws.
2. How long does it take to process an accredited employer application?
Typically, 10–30 working days, depending on your business type and document accuracy.
3. How long is Employer Accreditation valid?
Newly approved accreditation is valid for 12 months, with renewals extending up to 24 months.
4. Can a franchise or labour hire company get accredited?
Yes, specific accreditation types, Franchisee and Controlling Third-Party, are available for these business models.
5. Why was my accredited employer application declined?
Common reasons include incomplete documents, non-compliance with INZ or tax laws, or weak HR support systems.
6. Can Employer Accreditation NZ help with residence visa applications?
Yes, accredited employers can support certain residence categories like the Green List and Skilled Migrant Category.