Plan ahead: AEWV maximum continuous stays take effect

Read more on the Immigration New Zealand news centre.

We are reminding Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) holders and their employers to plan ahead if they are approaching their maximum continuous stay (MCS). 

The MCS is the total amount of time someone can stay in New Zealand on 1 or more AEWVs.

Once a migrant reaches their maximum stay, they must spend 12 months outside of New Zealand before they can be granted another AEWV. Employers cannot continue to employ AEWV holders after they reach their maximum stay.  

The AEWV is a temporary visa, and the maximum stay rule ensures that employers test the labour market every 3 to 5 years so that jobs go to New Zealanders first. 

When the AEWV launched in 2022, AEWV holders in skill level 4 and 5 roles had a maximum stay of 3 years. Those in skill level 1 to 3 roles can apply to stay for a further 2 years, giving them a total maximum stay of 5 years.

Since July 2025, some AEWV holders of visas granted between 2022 to 2023 have begun reaching their maximum stay. These visa holders will need to plan to leave New Zealand or apply for a different visa if they are eligible.