Employ migrants
Hiring a migrant
Before a worker can come to New Zealand to work you may need to support their visa application, or get accredited or approved by us to employ them.
Visas with work rights
Before you can recruit an overseas worker they must have a visa that gives them the right to do the work you are offering them
Visa options for hiring migrants
Accredited Employer Work Visa
You can get accreditation to use the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) to hire migrants on visas for up to 5 years.
You must:
- pay at least the market rate for the job
- show that you cannot find suitable New Zealanders first.
Graduates holding a work visa
International students who complete their studies in New Zealand may be eligible for a Post Study Work Visa
Working holiday visa holders
New Zealand has reciprocal agreements with about 45 countries allowing people aged 18 to 30, and for some countries 18 to 35, to work temporarily while on holiday in New Zealand.
Work visa holders
You must check that the work visa a migrant holds will let them work for you. Some migrants can only work for a specific employer.
Resident visa holders
Most resident visa holders can work for any employer.
Interim visas for employees
If an employee is applying for a further work visa then they may be granted an Interim Visa that lets them stay in New Zealand lawfully while their application is processed.
Student visa holders
Many students can work part time while they study and work full time during breaks. Find out how to check if they can legally work for you.