English for moving to New Zealand: what level you need and how to prepare
English requirements depend on the visa, occupation and programme. For AEWV skill-level 3, 4 and 5 roles, INZ requires English evidence; the IELTS option needs an overall score of at least 4. Levels 1 and 2 have no formal INZ English requirement. Employers and professional regulators may set separate standards.
Contents
What IELTS score does AEWV require?
For ANZSCO or applicable NOL levels 3, 4 and 5, the IELTS option needs overall 4 or higher. Levels 1 and 2 have no formal INZ English requirement. Check other evidence, exemptions, registration and employer requirements separately.
Visa rules and employer expectations
The AEWV rule includes skill level 3 from 1 June 2026. INZ accepts specified citizenship, work and study evidence or an approved test; check the conditions and exemptions for your circumstances.
Tests must be taken at an accepted test centre and results must be no more than two years old when applying. IELTS 6.5 is not a blanket rule for work visas.
Source: English language requirements for an Accredited Employer Work Visa :: Immigration New Zealand (checked 2026-10-15).
English for study
Admission scores depend on the particular programme and provider. They do not automatically match the AEWV requirement.
Some English-language students qualify for work rights through full-time study of at least 24 teaching weeks and an accepted result such as IELTS 5.0 no more than two years old. A separate route covers at least 14 consecutive weeks at a university or NZQA Category 1 provider.
Source: Working on a student visa :: Immigration New Zealand (checked 2026-10-15); U13.15 Work conditions for students enrolled at a tertiary institution or private training establishment (checked 2026-10-15).
Prepare for interviews
Practise explaining your responsibilities, project results and reasons for changing jobs. Prepare questions about hours, pay and the employer’s expectations.
Read real vacancies and INZ instructions. Learn the terms needed for your occupation and application.
Everyday communication
Practise speaking to a landlord, making a medical appointment and contacting a bank. Passing a test does not remove the need for everyday practice.
Build regular speaking and professional-vocabulary practice into your week. Measure progress against tasks you need to complete.
| Situation | Requirement |
|---|---|
| AEWV: levels 3, 4 and 5 | IELTS overall at least 4; other evidence and exemptions under INZ rules |
| AEWV: levels 1 and 2 | No formal INZ English requirement |
| Employer, regulator or course | Check separately |
English language requirements for an Accredited Employer Work Visa :: Immigration New Zealand
Related reading
- How to move to New Zealand: a step-by-step plan
- Work in New Zealand: where to find jobs and how to apply
- Student visa in New Zealand: Fee Paying Student Visa, funds and documents
FAQ
What IELTS score does AEWV require?
For ANZSCO or applicable NOL levels 3, 4 and 5, the IELTS option needs overall 4 or higher. Levels 1 and 2 have no formal INZ English requirement. Check other evidence, exemptions, registration and employer requirements separately.
Sources for independent verification
A check date is shown beside sources reviewed for this update.
- English language requirements for an Accredited Employer Work Visa :: Immigration New Zealand. Checked:
- Accredited Employer Work Visa » Immigration New Zealand. Checked:
- Working on a student visa :: Immigration New Zealand. Checked:
- U13.15 Work conditions for students enrolled at a tertiary institution or private training establishment. Checked: