If you’re dreaming of a career in New Zealand, most visa-sponsored jobs will offer salaries ranging from NZD 60,000 to NZD 120,000 per year, depending on your experience and role. Many positions welcome mid to senior-level professionals with at least two to five years of experience, though entry-level opportunities exist in healthcare, hospitality, and construction.
While some companies now offer hybrid or remote options (mainly in tech and finance), most sponsored jobs still require on-site or physical work especially in industries like healthcare, agriculture, and trades. These roles are full-time, stable positions that open doors not just to employment, but to building a new life in one of the world’s most welcoming countries.
Why Visa Sponsorship Matters:
Only accredited employers can offer sponsorship under the AEWV. Accreditation ensures that a company meets Immigration New Zealand’s standards for fair employment and compliance.
Sponsorship is most common in industries facing skill shortages, including:
- Healthcare and aged care
- Information technology
- Construction and infrastructure
- Agriculture and food production
- Education and early childhood care
Top Companies That Can Sponsor Visas in New Zealand:
These companies are known for hiring skilled foreign workers and offering visa sponsorship. While accreditation status can change, most of the employers below have a history of sponsoring visas and appear frequently on Immigration NZ’s accredited employer lists.
| Company | Industry / Roles Commonly Sponsored |
|---|---|
| Te Whatu Ora (Health New Zealand) | Healthcare and hospitals – doctors, nurses, medical technicians, and allied health roles. |
| Fonterra Co-operative Group | Dairy, agriculture, and food production – supply chain, quality assurance, and process engineering. |
| Air New Zealand | Aviation – aircraft maintenance, engineering, IT, and logistics. |
| Fisher & Paykel Healthcare | Medical technology – product design, R&D, and manufacturing. |
| Datacom | IT and software development – cybersecurity, DevOps, and cloud engineering. |
| Xero | Fintech and SaaS – software engineers, product managers, and data analysts. |
| ASB Bank | Financial services – technology, risk management, and operations. |
| Fletcher Building | Construction and infrastructure – project managers, engineers, and skilled trades. |
| Bupa Care Services NZ | Aged care – registered nurses, healthcare assistants, and care coordinators. |
| BestStart Educare Ltd | Education – early childhood teachers and center managers. |
| Sealord Group Ltd | Seafood and fisheries – processing, operations, and logistics. |
Check Also: List of Companies That Can Sponsor Visa in Switzerland
Benefits:
- Guaranteed legal employment: Working with an accredited employer ensures your visa and job are fully compliant with Immigration NZ regulations.
- Pathway to residency: Many sponsored roles, especially those on the Green List, can lead to permanent residency.
- Competitive salaries: Most sponsored jobs pay at or above the national median wage, offering financial stability.
- Career growth: Accredited employers often provide professional development, training, and long-term career prospects.
- Relocation support: Many companies assist with visa processing, airfare, or accommodation to help you settle quickly.
- Work-life balance: New Zealand is known for its flexible work culture, safe environment, and strong focus on family and well-being.
How to Find Accredited Employers in New Zealand:
If your profession or sector isn’t covered above, you can find more sponsoring companies using these strategies:
1. Use the Accredited Employer List
Visit the official Immigration New Zealand Accredited Employer list to verify whether a company is eligible to sponsor under AEWV.
2. Search Job Boards with Visa Sponsorship Filters
Websites like Seek NZ, LinkedIn Jobs, and Trade Me Jobs often list positions that specify “visa sponsorship available.”
3. Focus on High-Demand Sectors
Roles on the Green List or those in essential industries (healthcare, IT, construction, and agriculture) are most likely to attract sponsorship.
4. Network and Apply Directly
Reach out to HR departments of major companies in your field. Many accredited employers don’t advertise all available positions publicly.
What to Check Before Applying:
- Confirm that the company’s accreditation is active on the Immigration NZ website.
- Ensure your role meets the Green List or skill shortage criteria.
- Review minimum pay requirements under the AEWV (usually at or above the median wage).
- Check for any registration or licensing requirements if your profession is regulated (e.g., nursing, engineering, teaching).
- Ask if the employer provides relocation support or helps with visa documentation.
Emerging Trends:
New Zealand’s workforce needs are evolving. The following trends are expected to shape sponsorship opportunities in 2026:
- Continued demand in healthcare and aged care, particularly in regional areas.
- Rising IT and cybersecurity roles as digital transformation accelerates.
- Growth in infrastructure and renewable energy projects, driving construction-related recruitment.
- Education and childcare shortages in urban centers, opening opportunities for qualified teachers.
Keeping an eye on Immigration NZ’s policy updates will help you stay ahead of changes to visa requirements or wage thresholds.
Conclusion:
In 2026, New Zealand continues to offer strong opportunities for skilled workers through accredited employers ready to sponsor visas. From healthcare and IT to construction and education, sponsored roles provide competitive pay and stability. With preparation and the right employer, you can turn your New Zealand career dream into reality.
Frequently Asked Questions:
-
What is a visa-sponsoring company in New Zealand?
A visa-sponsoring company is an employer accredited by Immigration New Zealand that can legally hire skilled foreign workers under the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) program.
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What types of jobs usually offer visa sponsorship?
Visa sponsorship is common in industries with skill shortages, such as healthcare, IT, construction, agriculture, education, and aged care.
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How do I know if a company can sponsor my visa?
You can check the official Accredited Employer List on the Immigration New Zealand website. Only companies listed there are authorized to sponsor visas.
