Navigating the New Horizon: A Guide to the English Language Requirements for the New Zealand AEWV Work Visa

The pathway to working in beautiful Aotearoa New Zealand has seen some important updates. If you’re setting your sights on a role through the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV), understanding the English language requirements is more crucial than ever. This guide is here to walk you through everything you need to know, making the process clear, straightforward, and encouraging.

For many aspiring to work in New Zealand, the visa application process can feel like navigating a complex map. The introduction of English language standards for certain AEWV roles has added a new, significant step to this journey. But don’t let it daunt you. Think of it not as a barrier, but as a bridge to better communication and integration into your new workplace and community. In my experience advising skilled migrants, those who tackle this requirement with a clear plan and early preparation are the ones who cross that bridge with confidence.

This comprehensive guide will break down the English language requirements for the New Zealand AEWV, effective now and for those applying through 2025 and beyond. We’ll cover who needs to take a test, the scores you’ll need, who is exempt, and how you can prepare to succeed.

Understanding the AEWV English Language Requirement

First things first, what is this new requirement? In a move to ensure worker welfare and effective workplace communication, Immigration New Zealand has introduced a minimum standard of English for certain AEWV applicants. This requirement specifically targets jobs classified at ANZSCO levels 4 and 5.

What are ANZSCO levels? The Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO) is a system that categorizes jobs based on skill level.

• ANZSCO levels 1-3 generally include roles that are considered higher-skilled and typically require a degree or a high level of work experience.
• ANZSCO levels 4-5 often include roles with lower skill level requirements, such as labourers, machinery operators, hospitality staff, carers, and cleaners.

Crucially, if your job offer is for a role at ANZSCO level 1, 2, or 3, you are not required to prove your English language ability for the AEWV. This change is specifically for those taking up positions at the ANZSCO 4 and 5 levels.

Unsure of your job’s ANZSCO level? You can find it using the search tool on the official Immigration New Zealand website.

Do You Need to Take an English Test? The Core Requirements

If your job falls under ANZSCO level 4 or 5, you must provide evidence of your English proficiency. There are two primary ways to do this:

1. Through your citizenship and past study or work.
2. By achieving a minimum score on an approved English language test.

Let’s break down these pathways.

Pathway 1: Proving Your English Ability Through Exemption

You may be exempt from taking an English test if you meet specific criteria related to your nationality and where you have lived, worked, or studied. You are exempt if you are a citizen of:

• Canada
• The Republic of Ireland
• The United Kingdom
• The United States of America

And you have spent at least five years working or studying in one of those countries, or in Australia or New Zealand.

Alternatively, you may also be exempt if you have completed a recognised qualification comparable to a New Zealand level 7 bachelor’s degree (gained over at least two years of study) or a level 8 or higher postgraduate qualification (gained over at least one year of study) in one of the countries listed above.

It’s vital to ensure your qualifications are recognised. You might need an International Qualification Assessment (IQA) to confirm this.

Pathway 2: Meeting the Score on an Approved English Test

For most applicants, taking an approved English language test will be the most direct route to meeting the requirement. Immigration New Zealand accepts several internationally recognised tests. A key rule is that the test must have been taken in-person at a test centre and your results must be no more than two years old at the time you submit your visa application. Online or ‘at-home’ versions of these tests are not accepted.

Here are the approved tests and the minimum scores you need for an ANZSCO level 4 or 5 AEWV application:

These scores reflect a basic to functional level of English, ensuring you can understand workplace instructions and communicate on essential matters.

As Immigration New Zealand updates its policies, it’s always wise to get the latest information directly from the source.

Your Action Plan: How to Prepare and Succeed

Receiving a job offer is an exciting moment. To keep that momentum going, here is a step-by-step plan to tackle the English language requirement.

Step 1: Confirm Your ANZSCO Level Immediately

As soon as you have a job offer, confirm the ANZSCO level with your employer. This will determine if the English requirement applies to you.

Step 2: Check if You Qualify for an Exemption

Review the citizenship, work, and study exemption criteria carefully. If you believe you are exempt, start gathering your evidence, such as your passport and qualification transcripts.

Step 3: If a Test is Needed, Choose the Right One for You

I’ve seen many successful applicants choose a test based on their learning style. Some prefer the human interaction of the IELTS speaking test, while others are more comfortable with the computer-based format of the PTE Academic. Research each test to see which one fits you best.

Step 4: Book Your Test and Start Preparing Early

Test centres can get booked up quickly, so schedule your test well in advance of your intended visa application date. Use the time before your test to prepare thoroughly. There are countless resources available online, many of them free.

• Official Practice Materials: All major test providers (IELTS, PTE, TOEFL) offer official practice tests and materials.
• Language Learning Apps: Use apps to improve your vocabulary and grammar on the go.
• Find a Study Partner: Practising speaking with someone else can build confidence and fluency.

A person studying for an English test with headphones on, highlighting preparation for the AEWV visa language requirement

Step 5: Submit Your Application with Confidence

Once you have your test results or proof of exemption, you can proceed with your AEWV application. Ensure your test certificate is valid and clear.

A Final Word of Encouragement

Change can be unsettling, but this update to the AEWV process is designed to set you up for success in your new life in New Zealand. By understanding the requirements, making a clear plan, and giving yourself time to prepare, you can meet this standard confidently.

Your journey to working in New Zealand is a testament to your skills and ambition. See this step as another opportunity to showcase your capabilities. Prepare well, stay positive, and look forward to the incredible experiences that await you in Aotearoa.

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FAQs

Do my partner and children need to take an English test for their visas?

No. If you are the principal applicant for an AEWV at ANZSCO level 4 or 5, the English language requirement does not apply to your partner or dependent children for their associated visitor, work, or student visas.

What if I took my English test more than two years ago?

Unfortunately, the test results must be no more than two years old when you apply. If your certificate has expired, you will need to retake the test.

My job is in the transport/care sector. Do these rules apply to me?

Yes, if your role is classified as ANZSCO level 4 or 5, you must meet the English language requirement, regardless of the sector. Some sector agreements may have different wage or experience requirements, but the English language rule is standard for these ANZSCO levels.