English Language Requirement Extended to AEWV Skill Level 3 Roles from 1 June 2026
The New Zealand Government has announced that from 1 June 2026, minimum English language requirements for the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) will be extended to applicants working in ANZSCO and National Occupation List (NOL) skill level 3 occupations.
Currently, English language requirements apply only to AEWV applicants in skill level 4 and 5 roles. Under the new rules, applicants for skill level 3 positions will also need to demonstrate they can speak and understand English.
Applicants may meet the requirement through:
Citizenship from an approved English-speaking country
Previous work or study completed in English
An approved English language test
The Government says the change is intended to support better migrant integration, help workers understand their employment rights and obligations, and improve confidence in raising concerns about non-compliant employers.
Exemptions and Transitional Arrangements
Several exemptions and transitional measures will apply to ensure fairness for current visa holders and employers.
The new English language requirement will not apply to:
Global Workforce Seasonal Visa applications
Peak Seasonal Visa AEWV applications
AEWV Job Change applications
In addition, current AEWV holders will not be affected retrospectively while their visas remain valid.
The following transitional arrangements will apply:
People holding an AEWV that expires on or before 1 December 2026 will be exempt from the new English language requirement when applying for another AEWV at skill level 3.
Migrants who have already provided evidence of English ability as part of a previous AEWV application will also be exempt.
The Government says these measures are designed to give existing workers enough time to prepare for future requirements, including arranging and completing an English language test if needed.
What Employers Need to Know
For employers, the changes provide greater consistency across skill levels and allow businesses to plan ahead when recruiting for skill level 3 roles from 1 June 2026 onwards.
It is important to note that migrants applying for a new AEWV at skill level 3 after 1 June 2026 must meet the English language requirement, even if their employer received a Job Check token before that date.
Further details are available on the Beehive website.