New Zealand offers several immigration pathways depending on whether you want to work temporarily, settle permanently, or travel and work short-term. Here are the main routes for 2026.
Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)
The AEWV is New Zealand's main temporary work visa. It is employer-led: you need a job offer from an accredited employer, the role must pass a check confirming no suitable New Zealander is available (for most jobs), and it must meet wage thresholds.
Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) — the residence route
The SMC is the primary pathway to permanent residence for skilled workers. It uses a points-based system rewarding skilled employment in New Zealand, recognised qualifications, and relevant work experience.
| Pathway | Best for | Leads to |
|---|---|---|
| AEWV | Workers with an accredited job offer | Temporary work (can lead to residence) |
| Skilled Migrant Category | Skilled workers seeking to settle | Permanent residence |
| Working Holiday | Young travellers (eligible countries) | Short-term work & travel |
| Student visa | International students | Study (can lead to post-study work) |
How the points system works
The Skilled Migrant Category awards points for factors like skilled employment, occupational registration, qualifications, and experience. You need to meet the threshold in effect at the time you apply — and because settings change, always confirm the current points requirement.
Tip: A skilled job offer from an accredited New Zealand employer is the single strongest asset for most residence applications — it drives both the AEWV and a large share of Skilled Migrant points.
Working Holiday Visa
If you are a young traveller from an eligible country, the Working Holiday scheme lets you live, travel, and work in New Zealand for a set period — a popular way to experience the country and sometimes a stepping stone to other visas.
Choosing your pathway
- Have a job offer from an accredited employer? Start with the AEWV.
- Skilled and want to settle permanently? Target the Skilled Migrant Category.
- Young and want to explore first? Consider the Working Holiday visa.
- Planning to study? A student visa can open post-study work options.
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Ask the AI Assistant — Free →Frequently Asked Questions
The Skilled Migrant Category sets a points threshold that can change with policy. You earn points for skilled employment, qualifications, and experience — always confirm the current threshold before applying.
For the Accredited Employer Work Visa, yes. A skilled job offer also contributes heavily to Skilled Migrant Category residence points, making it the strongest single asset for most applicants.
An accredited employer is one approved by Immigration New Zealand to hire migrant workers under the AEWV. Working for one is a core requirement of that visa.