Which Employer Accreditation Do I Need?
Standard, High-Volume or Triangular
New Zealand businesses generally choose one of three AEWV accreditation types depending on how many migrants they hire and how they engage them. This is a general explanation of how the categories differ — not a verdict on which one a specific business needs. Rules change over time; current detail is on immigration.govt.nz, and the right type for a particular business is assessed by a licensed adviser.
The Accreditation Types
How the Three Accreditation Types Generally Differ
Standard Accreditation
Generally for New Zealand businesses that want to hire up to five migrants on an AEWV.
High-Volume Accreditation
Generally for New Zealand businesses that want to hire six or more migrants on an AEWV.
Triangular Employer Accreditation
Generally for businesses that place migrants with a controlling third party while being the named employer. There is generally no set limit on numbers, but extra rules apply — for example a history of placing staff and a minimum share of New Zealand workers.
Business Viability
All types generally require a viable, genuinely operating business — demonstrated by tests such as no loss in the last two years, positive recent cash flow, sufficient capital, or a credible two-year business plan.
Trust, Partnership or Sole Trader
Extra requirements generally apply, such as New Zealand being the primary place of residence for a partner, trustee or the sole trader, and the named employer being a natural person.
Changing Type Later
A business can generally change its accreditation type as it grows — for example from standard to high-volume — usually handled through renewal.
Choosing an Accreditation Type
How Employers Generally Work Out the Right Type
- 1
Estimate Your Hiring
Consider how many migrants you expect to hire and whether you place workers with a controlling third party.
- 2
Check Business Viability
Confirm your business can demonstrate it is viable and genuinely operating against the financial tests.
- 3
Gather Your Details
Prepare your New Zealand Business Number (NZBN), Business Industry Classification (BIC) code and Inland Revenue number.
- 4
Apply for the Right Type
Apply online for the accreditation type that fits — applying for the wrong type generally means reapplying and paying another fee.
Common Questions
Common Accreditation-Type Questions
Standard accreditation is generally for hiring up to five migrants; high-volume is generally for six or more. The current definitions are on immigration.govt.nz.
Yes — a business can generally change type as it grows, usually through renewal and paying the fee. The current process is published by Immigration New Zealand.
If you apply for the wrong type, you generally need to apply again with the correct type and pay another application fee, which is not refunded. Current rules are on immigration.govt.nz.
VisaPlex provides general information and an AI-assisted planning workspace. A licensed immigration adviser can review your business and hiring plans and advise which accreditation type fits your situation.
Next Step
Find the Right Accreditation Type
Tell us about your business and hiring plans and our licensed adviser will review which AEWV accreditation type fits your situation.