If you plan to work in New Zealand under the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) and your job offer falls under ANZSCO level 4 or 5, you now need to meet a new English language requirement.
Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has officially introduced an English language proficiency condition for lower-skilled roles. This change directly affects candidates applying for positions in cleaning, hospitality, caregiving, factory work, and other support-level professions.
Who Must Meet the New English Requirement?
This rule applies only to AEWV applicants in ANZSCO levels 4 and 5, which are classified as lower-skilled or sponsor-supported roles.
You must meet the English requirement if:
- Your AEWV job offer is under ANZSCO level 4 or 5
- Your role is in senior care, hospitality, cleaning, or factory production
You are exempt from this requirement if:
- Your role is at ANZSCO levels 1 to 3 (higher-skilled positions)
- You are applying for a spouse or dependent child visa
How to Prove Your English Proficiency for AEWV
You can satisfy the English language condition in one of two ways:
1. Demonstrate English Through Work, Citizenship, or Study
You are exempt from English tests if:
- You are a citizen of Canada, the UK, Ireland, the U.S., Australia, or New Zealand
- You have lived, worked, or studied in any of those countries for at least 5 years
Alternatively, if you hold recognized qualifications from one of the countries listed above, you may also be exempt:
- Bachelor’s degree (Level 7): At least 24 months of study
- Postgraduate qualification (Level 8 or above): At least 12 months of study
Required documents include:
- Degree certificate
- Passport
- Academic transcript
- International Qualification Assessment (IQA) if your degree is not automatically recognized in New Zealand
2. Take an Approved English Language Test
If you don’t qualify through citizenship or study, you can meet the requirement by passing one of the following tests:
| Test | Minimum Score |
|---|---|
| IELTS | 4.0+ |
| TOEFL iBT | 31+ |
| PTE Academic | 29+ |
| Cambridge B2 First | 142+ |
| OET (health roles only) | Grade D+ (all skills) |
Why This Matters
The updated English requirement aims to ensure that foreign employees working in client-facing or safety-sensitive positions can communicate clearly and effectively. The change supports workplace safety and service quality, especially in industries where communication is essential.
Failure to meet this requirement may result in your visa application being refused, so preparation is key.
Final Tips for Applicants
- Check your ANZSCO level with your employer or by referring to New Zealand’s official classification list
- If you’re not exempt, begin preparing for an approved English test early
- Review whether your degree qualifies or if an NZQA IQA is required
- Always consult the official INZ website or speak with a licensed immigration adviser for the latest policy details
If you are applying for a position under ANZSCO level 4 or 5, ensure you meet the English requirement either through your nationality, academic background, or a recognized test—it is now a mandatory part of the AEWV process.