English language requirements extended to AEWV skill level 3 roles

From 1 June 2026, minimum English language requirements apply to all skill level 3 occupations under the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV). This brings skill level 3 roles in line with skill level 4 and 5 occupations, which have been subject to English language requirements for some time.

What the requirement involves

Applicants need to demonstrate basic, everyday English for common situations. This is not an advanced or professional language standard. Applicants can satisfy the requirement in one of three ways:

• A qualifying English language test result
• Citizenship of a recognised majority English-speaking country
• Having completed at least five years of full-time study or work in a majority English-speaking country

The requirement applies to anyone applying for a new AEWV in a skill level 3 role from 1 June 2026.

The exemption

There is a limited exemption for workers who already hold an AEWV expiring on or before 1 December 2026 and are applying for a further AEWV in a skill level 3 role before that visa expires. The exemption applies whether the current visa is at skill level 3, 4, or 5.

Immigration New Zealand is contacting eligible migrants directly with guidance on how to apply for the exemption. The exemption does not apply automatically and must be requested as part of the application.

For employers

Employers with staff in skill level 3 roles whose visas are approaching expiry should check whether those workers will need to meet the new English language requirement or whether they qualify for the exemption. Workers who do not yet have evidence of English ability may need time to arrange a test, so it is worth assessing this now rather than at visa renewal.

Over 40 percent of all AEWV applications submitted in 2026 have required a request for further information. Ensuring applications are complete and decision-ready from the outset reduces processing time for everyone.

If you have questions about how this change affects your staff or your own visa, our team can assist.