To strengthen visa settings and workplace safety, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) now requires migrants applying for an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) in roles assessed at ANZSCO Skill Level 4 or 5 to demonstrate English language ability. Proving English proficiency has become a key part of the AEWV application process.
Who Must Meet the Requirement
• Targeted roles:
The English language requirement applies to new AEWV applicants whose jobs are classified as ANZSCO Skill Level 4 or 5.
• Why these roles:
These roles typically include trades, process workers, labourers, and other essential support positions. INZ considers a basic level of English necessary to work safely, follow instructions, and integrate successfully in New Zealand workplaces.
• Exemptions are limited and specific:
Some applicants may meet the requirement without taking an English test if they can provide acceptable evidence of English ability — for example, through citizenship of an English-speaking country or with sufficient study in English.
However, an English-speaking passport or qualification alone is not automatically sufficient unless INZ’s criteria are fully met. Many applicants will still need to provide a test result.
Accepted English Tests and Required Scores
INZ accepts several internationally recognised English tests. The required level reflects basic functional English, not fluency:
• IELTS (Academic or General Training): Overall score of 4.0 or higher
• TOEFL iBT: Overall score of 31 or higher
• PTE Academic: Overall score of 29 or higher
• Cambridge English B2 First (including B2 First for Schools): 142 or higher
• OET (Occupational English Test): Grade D or higher in all four skills
Key Rules for Test Results
• Recency matters:
English test results must generally be no more than two years old at the time the AEWV application is submitted.
• Providing evidence:
Applicants must include the official test reference or report number so INZ can verify the results directly with the testing provider.
• Avoid delays:
Applications submitted without acceptable English evidence may be delayed, declined, or returned, leading to unnecessary disruption for both migrants and employers.
#TestFirst
The Wider Impact
• Family visa implications:
Many ANZSCO Level 4 and 5 roles have restricted ability to support partner and dependent child visas. The English requirement adds another hurdle, making migration planning more complex for lower-skilled applicants and their families.
• Employer due diligence:
Accredited employers must now check that a migrant meets the English requirement before an AEWV application is lodged, adding an extra compliance step to recruitment and workforce planning.
#EmployerDuty
Are your applicants more concerned about choosing the “easiest” English test — or about the practical challenge of booking and sitting a test in their home country?
