If you are planning to work in New Zealand and are searching for employers that can legally sponsor your work visa, you are on the right path. New Zealand continues to face skill shortages across multiple industries, and accredited employers are actively hiring overseas workers under the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) framework.
This guide explains where the jobs are, how visa sponsorship works, what benefits employers offer, and which New Zealand companies are authorised to sponsor foreign workers in 2026.
Job Opportunities & In-Demand Skills in New Zealand
New Zealand welcomes foreign workers with diverse skills, education, and experience levels. While demand is strong in professional and technical fields, opportunities also exist in healthcare, manufacturing, logistics, and community services.
High-Demand Roles (Examples)
- ICT Managers
- Software Engineers
- ICT Security Specialists
- Multimedia & Digital Specialists
- Civil & Electrical Engineers
💰 Typical Salary Range:
NZD $95,000 – $120,000 per year, depending on experience and role.
How Visa Sponsorship Works in New Zealand
To work in New Zealand as a foreigner, you generally need:
- A job offer from an accredited employer
- Employer confirmation that the role meets local labour requirements
- Employer support for the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)
Key Points:
- Employers must be officially accredited
- Employers must show they attempted to hire locally (where required)
- Visa costs and immigration paperwork are often handled by the employer
- The AEWV can lead to residency pathways for eligible roles
Benefits Offered by Visa-Sponsoring Employers
Many New Zealand employers offer attractive employment packages to international workers:
- Work visa sponsorship (AEWV)
- Competitive salaries (median wage ~NZD $29.66/hour)
- Accommodation assistance (in some roles)
- Transport or meal allowances
- Training & upskilling programs
- Work–life balance and strong labour protections
New Zealand Companies That Sponsor Work Visas (2026)
Below are well-known New Zealand employers that are authorised or historically known to sponsor foreign workers:
- ACC
- Air New Zealand
- Access Community Health
- AFFCO Holdings
- Alliance Group
- Alsco NZ
- Altus NZ
- ANZ Bank New Zealand
- Arvida
- Weta Digital
- ASB Bank
- Auckland Council
- AWF
- KiwiRail
- Landcorp
- Skellerup Industries
⚠️ Availability of visa sponsorship depends on the specific role and location, not just the company name.
How to Apply for Visa-Sponsored Jobs in New Zealand
Step-by-Step Process
- Visit the employer’s official careers page
- Review job descriptions carefully
- Ensure the role is eligible for AEWV sponsorship
- Submit a tailored CV and cover letter
- Attend interviews
- Employer initiates visa sponsorship after offer
🔍 Tip: Search keywords like
“Accredited Employer Work Visa”, “AEWV roles”, or “visa sponsorship available”
Why Choose New Zealand?
- High quality of life
- Safe, multicultural society
- Strong employee rights
- Clear immigration pathways
- Beautiful natural environment
- Family-friendly policies
Final Thoughts
New Zealand remains one of the best countries for foreign workers seeking legal employment and long-term settlement in 2026. With a transparent visa system, employer support, and strong demand across industries, working in New Zealand is a realistic and rewarding goal.
Always verify job listings through official employer websites and the New Zealand immigration portal for the most up-to-date requirements.