The New Zealand Government has confirmed that English language requirements for the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) will soon apply to a wider group of occupations. From 1 June 2026, all ANZSCO and National Occupation List skill level 3 roles will need to meet a minimum standard of English when applying for an AEWV.
Skill level 3 applicants will follow the same English language rules that already apply to skill level 4 and 5 roles. The requirement is designed to show basic, everyday English for common situations. It is not intended to measure high or advanced fluency. Applicants can meet the requirement through an approved test or by using eligible citizenship, work history or study history.
The change applies to new AEWV applications for skill level 3 roles from 1 June 2026.
There is an exemption for migrants who already hold an AEWV that expires on or before 1 December 2026, as long as they apply for another AEWV in a skill level 3 role before their current visa expires. Immigration New Zealand is contacting people who may qualify for this exemption with guidance on how to complete the form.
All other AEWV settings remain the same.
If you want to see how this could affect you, get in touch.
You can read the announcement on the Beehive website.
