AEWV English Language Requirements Extended to Skill Level 3 Roles
by | May 25, 2026 | News
From 1 June 2026, new English language requirements will apply to people applying for an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) in ANZSCO and National Occupation List (NOL) Skill Level 3 roles.
Currently, English language requirements only apply to AEWV applicants in skill level 4 and 5 occupations. From June 2026, applicants for skill level 3 occupations will also need to demonstrate they can speak and understand English.
Applicants may meet the English language requirement through:
- Citizenship from an English-speaking country
- Previous work or study completed in English
- An approved English language test
The changes aim to support better integration into New Zealand communities and workplaces, help migrants understand their rights and obligations, and encourage reporting of non-compliant employers.
Exemptions and Transitional Arrangements
The following applicants will be exempt from the new English language requirement:
- People applying under the Global Workforce Seasonal Visa or Peak Seasonal Visa AEWV
- AEWV Job Change applications
- People who already provided English evidence in a previous AEWV application
- Current AEWV holders whose visas expire on or before 1 December 2026 and who are applying for another AEWV at skill level 3
Importantly, no current AEWV holder will be affected retrospectively while their existing visa remains valid.
Important for Employers and Migrants
Migrants applying for an AEWV at skill level 3 from 1 June 2026 onwards must meet the new English language requirements, even if their employer received a job check token before that date.
The changes are intended to provide greater consistency across skill levels while giving employers and migrants time to prepare for the new requirements.
For more information: