Job offer in New Zealand: how to assess an offer before moving
Assess a job offer alongside the employment agreement and an eligible visa. Check the employer, duties, pay, hours, location and permission to start work. An offer is neither an issued visa nor a guarantee of residence.
Contents
Does a job offer already permit work?
No. You need the required permission and a lawful start date under the visa and agreement. An offer is not an issued visa.
Verify the employer
For AEWV, check accreditation and the appropriate job check. Use the company’s official contacts and do not pay for a promised position.
Clarify who signs the agreement, who employs you and where you work. The role title should match the actual duties.
Source: Accredited Employer Work Visa » Immigration New Zealand (checked 2026-10-15).
Agreement and budget
Check guaranteed hours, gross pay, start conditions, leave and permitted deductions. Compare monthly income with housing and the journey to work.
Housing and savings are not visa grounds. Separate temporary accommodation, actual arrival-month rent and refundable bonds.
English, registration and evidence
AEWV levels 3, 4 and 5 need INZ English evidence; IELTS requires overall 4 or higher. Levels 1 and 2 have no formal INZ English requirement. Check exemptions and other evidence separately.
Employers or regulators may require stronger communication and professional registration. Prepare verifiable experience records and the translations your visa needs.
Source: English language requirements for an Accredited Employer Work Visa :: Immigration New Zealand (checked 2026-10-15); Providing English translations of supporting documents :: Immigration New Zealand (checked 2026-10-15).
After the offer
Agree on a lawful start date and wait for the required permission before working. A change of role or employer may need another application.
For SMC, check one of the three pathways, pay and experience, plus the age limit of 55 or younger. Six points belong to the Points-based pathway; a work visa does not automatically become residence.
Source: Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa » Immigration New Zealand (checked 2026-10-15).
Related reading
- Work in New Zealand: where to find jobs and how to apply
- Salaries in New Zealand by profession: evidence, experience and a budget example
- Cost of living in New Zealand: rent, groceries, transport and first-month budget
FAQ
Does a job offer already permit work?
No. You need the required permission and a lawful start date under the visa and agreement. An offer is not an issued visa.
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:
- Getting New Zealand residence through the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) :: Immigration New Zealand. Checked:
- Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa » Immigration New Zealand. Checked:
- Providing English translations of supporting documents :: Immigration New Zealand. Checked: