AEWV vs SMC: which New Zealand visa is right for you?
The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) is temporary employer-sponsored work; the Skilled Migrant Category is a points-based path to residence. Many people use the AEWV to build toward SMC.
Side-by-side comparison
| Feature | Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) (AEWV) | Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa (SMC) |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Temporary | Permanent / PR |
| Who it's for | For skilled workers with a job offer from a New Zealand employer accredited by Immigration New Zealand. | For skilled workers who want to live in New Zealand permanently based on a points system. |
| Government cost | ~NZ$750 migrant fee (employer also pays accreditation and job check fees) | ~NZ$6,450 including levy (offshore applications) |
| Processing time | ~4-8 weeks | ~6-12 months |
| Length of stay | Up to 5 years | Permanent (indefinite resident visa) |
| Where to apply | Online, from outside or inside New Zealand | Online, from outside or inside New Zealand |
| Work rights | Work for the named accredited employer in the approved role | Work for any employer in any role |
| Points-tested | No | Yes |
| Pathway to PR | Higher-skilled AEWV roles can lead to the Skilled Migrant Category or Green List residence. | Grants residence immediately; can lead to a Permanent Resident Visa and citizenship. |
Which is right for you?
Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) (AEWV)
For skilled workers with a job offer from a New Zealand employer accredited by Immigration New Zealand.
Full AEWV guide →Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa (SMC)
For skilled workers who want to live in New Zealand permanently based on a points system.
Full SMC guide →Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, AEWV or SMC?
On indicative 2025-26 government costs, Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) (AEWV) is the lowest at ~NZ$750 migrant fee (employer also pays accreditation and job check fees). Government fees change periodically - confirm before applying.
Which is processed faster, AEWV or SMC?
Indicatively Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) (AEWV) is the quickest at ~4-8 weeks. Actual timeframes depend on caseload and how complete your application is.
Which of these leads to permanent residence?
SMC is permanent. AEWV: Higher-skilled AEWV roles can lead to the Skilled Migrant Category or Green List residence. SMC: Grants residence immediately; can lead to a Permanent Resident Visa and citizenship.
What's the main difference between AEWV and SMC?
Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) (AEWV) is for for skilled workers with a job offer from a New Zealand employer accredited by Immigration New Zealand. Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa (SMC) is for for skilled workers who want to live in New Zealand permanently based on a points system.