How to Find Genuine Visa Sponsorship Jobs in New Zealand

Do you get fed up with the social media posts of too-good-to-be-true job posts? In 2025, it is much different to find a legitimate career in New Zealand as an international worker. The New Zealand government has placed stern filters on only allowing genuine positions to be accessed by overseas applicants with the full adoption of the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) and the GreenList growth.

Finding a job in the Land of Long White Clouds is not about luck anymore, rather it is a matter of going through a tested legal process. This guide is going to demonstrate to you specifically how to spot the genuine opportunities and prevent traps that trap most aspiring migrants.

Verification/ Anti-Scam

True sponsorship in New Zealand takes a certain path of regulation. When an employer or agent does not follow these steps, it raises eyebrows.

AEWV (Accredited Employer Work Visa): This is the best of the best. An employer who intends to sponsor you must be accredited by Immigration New Zealand (INZ).1
The “Job Check” Token: This is the final sign of an actual job.2 Before you have a chance to even apply to your visa, the employer must undergo a Job Check to demonstrate that there was no local New Zealand er available.3 They will then present you with a Job Token (unique link) to apply with.
No Recruitment Fees: This is important. New Zealand The New Zealand law does not allow an employer or agent to demand a placement fee in a job.5 When someone requests money to get your offer and do it, it is a scam.6
Check the LIA: In case you have an agent, refer to the Immigration Advisers Authority (IAA) Register. The person providing NZ immigration advice has to be licensed or not (such as a NZ lawyer).7

Where to Get Real Job Advertisements

Do not join random Facebook. Resort to these high authority sites where the employers are accredited to have been actively recruiting.

Immigration NZ Accredited Employer List: Wait not on an advert. Contact the Official Accredited Employer Search to locate already approved sponsoring companies.
SEEK NZ & Trade Me Jobs: The two websites are the best job boards in New Zealand.8 Select the filter or search by keyword: Accredited Employer or Visa Sponsorship.
Work and Income (MSD) Listings: Employers who are genuine will have to list first in order to meet the Labour Market Test (LMT).10 In the event you see a position here, you are aware that the employer is looking to pass a Job Check.

Writing about Your Realness

Your profile needs to be present as a Decision-Ready profile in order to impress an accredited employer. Employers will not hire candidates that appear on the visa risk.

Know Your ANZSCO Level: find out whether your occupation is Level 1-3 (High Skill) or 4-5 (Lower Skill).11 Higher levels have less hurdles.
Police Certificates: By December 8, 2025, you are required to provide the real certificate at judgment.12 A genuine employer will require you to possess it.
English Proficiency: You should prepare your IELTS or PTE scores. It is a legal requirement that cannot be compromised on in many positions, particularly ANZSCO Levels 4 and 5.

FAQs

Is it possible to secure a work visa, first, and then employment?

No. In the case of the AEWV, the offer of employment by an accredited employer is a precondition to the application of the visa.13

What is a “Job Check Number”?

This is a 13-digit number or a special authorization offered by your employer.14 This is evidence that the government has already certified that particular vacancy as a migrant worker

Do employers usually offer accommodation?

No, normally unless you are working in a local dairy farm or seasonal horticulture position. Remember that package deals may offer a visa, employment, and accommodation at a high initial cost.

Next Step for You

Would you mind getting me the Accredited List of Employers in your particular industry (e.g. Construction, Healthcare or Tech) so you can start applying directly to companies that have been verified?

Disclaimer

Sharing this job information is merely informed and educational. It is recommended that you confirm information on the official employer or government web site (Immigration New Zealand) before you apply.