Working in New Zealand has long been an attractive choice for international workers. The country’s stable political environment, high quality of life, and progressive social welfare system make it a dream destination for many.
More importantly, the New Zealand Government continuously updates and improves its policies to attract skilled foreign workers to invest, live, and work here.
Let’s explore with Koroo why New Zealand remains one of the world’s most appealing labor markets — and the most common visa options for skilled workers.
Current Employment Situation in New Zealand
As of 2025, New Zealand is facing a serious shortage of skilled labor across several key industries — including food processing, agriculture, mechanical engineering, construction, and healthcare.
According to Stats NZ and the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE), the national unemployment rate is around 3.6%, while demand for foreign workers continues to rise steadily.
Employer surveys reveal that job opportunities are always available, especially for young, entry-level workers, but those with higher qualifications may find it harder to secure jobs because the shortage primarily affects manual and semi-skilled roles.
Due to an aging population, many New Zealand businesses also prefer hiring foreign workers, particularly in regions like South Island, Canterbury, and Otago — where the need for skilled and stable labor is most urgent.
This creates valuable opportunities for Vietnamese workers who are disciplined, skilled, and committed to long-term career growth.
Skilled Work Visa Categories in New Zealand
Foreign workers can come to New Zealand under various visa types. The most common include:
1. Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)
This is currently the most popular employer-sponsored visa. Workers are directly sponsored by a New Zealand company and sign a formal employment contract.
Requirements:
- A valid Job Offer from an accredited New Zealand employer.
- Basic English proficiency (usually IELTS 4.0–5.0).
- Relevant work experience or a professional qualification.
Benefits:
- Work visa duration: 2–3 years.
- Ability to bring dependents (spouse and children).
- Provides a pathway to permanent residency through the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa.
Ideal for general laborers seeking short-term employment in agriculture, horticulture, and fruit picking.
While this visa doesn’t lead directly to permanent residency, it allows workers to gain experience and savings for future long-term visa programs.
By November 2025, the government is expected to announce updates regarding new policies for the seasonal visa scheme.
Is a Skill Assessment Required for New Zealand Labour Export?
The answer is YES.
New Zealand enforces a strict skill assessment process to ensure the quality of its migrant workforce.
Workers must:
- Provide certificates, diplomas, or proof of experience.
- In some industries, complete an official skills assessment through recognized New Zealand authorities.
- For fields like meat processing, mechanics, and construction, candidates may need practical testing or supplementary training before approval.
This system ensures that Vietnamese workers’ skills are internationally recognized, improving their chances of being sponsored by New Zealand employers.
Opportunities for Skilled Workers
The government has expanded the Green List Occupations, which includes jobs that allow faster residency processing for eligible applicants.
Key occupations include:
- Food processing, meat cutting, and packaging
- Mechanical, electrical, and civil technicians
- Aged care workers, nurses, and caregivers
- Construction and agricultural engineers
For Vietnamese workers who meet the English and income thresholds, completing 2–3 years of work in these industries can lead to permanent residency eligibility.
Recently, the government also announced a one-year visa extension for workers holding AEWV visas about to expire, allowing them more time to qualify for residency and continue working legally.
Authorized Labour Export Companies
Only companies licensed by Vietnam’s Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs (MOLISA) are authorized to operate official New Zealand labor export programs.
However, subsidiary companies based in New Zealand can also legally recruit in Vietnam if properly registered.
When choosing a recruitment agency, workers should check:
- Valid government license.
- Transparent contracts with accredited New Zealand employers.
- Training and visa support policies clearly outlined in writing.
Summary
The New Zealand Labour Export Program not only offers competitive salaries and a safe working environment but also serves as a pathway to long-term settlement in one of the world’s most livable countries.
With rising recruitment demand and favorable immigration policies, 2025 is the golden year for Vietnamese workers to seize opportunities in New Zealand.
New Zealand job search service for Vietnamese people is the bridge to help you quickly access reputable and suitable career opportunities.
With a team of experts who understand the New Zealand labor market, we support you from career consulting and document preparation to interview guidance.
All processes are transparent, saving time and costs for workers.
This is not only a job solution but also opens up sustainable settlement opportunities for your future.
>>>> Contact Koroo now for free consultation and start your career journey in New Zealand today! <<<<<
