New Zealand Work Visa 2026 – Sponsorship Jobs Open Now
By 2026, the trend of the immigration system in New Zealand has been shifted to a highly specific, points-based one. As the main access point, the government has created more straightforward routes towards trades and technical positions and has increased the median wage requirements.
An Accredited Employer who has successfully passed a Job Check to demonstrate their inability to find a local New Zealander to fill the position is a Sponsorship Job in 2026.
High-Demand “Green List” Roles 2026
The strongest tool of fast-tracked residency is the Green List. In case your position is based here, you can be eligible to Straight to Residence (Tier 1) or to work to Residence (Tier 2).1
- ICT & Tech: Software Developers, Cybersecurity Specialists, Multimedia Specialists and Systems Administrators.2.
- Construction and Engineering: PMs, CEs, Surveyors and QSs.3.
- Healthcare: Registered Nurses, GP, Midwives and Specialist Doctors.4.
- Dairy Farm Managers and Agricultural Technicians.5.
- Trades Electricians, Plumbers, Metal Fabricators, and Welders.
Where to Find Sponsored Jobs
The job boards have certain filters to find an employer to perform the “Job Check” process in 2026.
- SEEK NZ: Direct results are reached by means of search term Accredited Employer Visa Sponsorship.
- Trade Me Jobs: Search results including the words AEWV available or Relocation assistance.
- Workhere New Zealand: A company that specifically targets offshore talent to seek sponsored positions.
- LinkedIn: Add New Zealand to the search and type in such terms as Green List role or Sponsorship provided.
List for Your 2026 Search
These are 2026-specific wordings that are applicable in your CV and search query to be in line with the current changes in the policy:
- Types of Visas AEWV Accredited Employer, SMC Resident Visa points, 6-point Skilled Migrant system.
- Tiers Straight to Residence Tier 1, Work to Residence Tier 2, Green List technical roles.
- Legal/Skill Terms: ANZSCO Level 1-3, skilled employment, NOL National Occupation List 2026, Recognition Partnership.
- New 2026 Visas Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV), Peak Seasonal Visa (PSV).9
FAQs
Is it possible to work without a job offer?
No. In the case of the AEWV, you need to have an offer of employment with an accredited employer.10 though, you may enter on a Working Holiday Visa to seek on-the-ground sponsorship or 6-point offer to enter, which is necessary.
What is the “6-point system”?
You require 6 points out of New Zealand registration, qualifications or a high income, and years of skilled work experience in NZ.12 which is introduced to make the SMC more simple.
How long does the AEWV last in 2026?
The AEWV visas of skilled positions are now also granted until up to 5 years, which is a significantly wide timeframe to switch to a permanent residence.
Are there any degree requirements to obtain a work visa?
Not necessarily. Under the changes to the Trades and Technician Pathway, the 3-5 years of relevant work experience can also be used in place of a formal degree in many trades and other IT positions.
How can one be quickest in gaining residency?
The Straight to Residence visa of Tier 1 GreenList occupations.13 You may apply immediately you hold a qualifying job offer; this might be based offshore.
Final Thought
New Zealand in 2026 is working towards real-world skills, not paper qualifications.14 When you are in a GreenList occupation, or you can quality earn at least 1.1x the median wage, your way to residency should be easier and faster than it was five years ago. Limit your search to Accredited Employers so that your sponsorship is not illegal.
Disclaimer
The information regarding this job is to be disclosed only to teach and inform. Before application, please confirm the information on the official employer or government site