Plan Ahead: AEWV Maximum Continuous Stay Rules in New Zealand

What Is the AEWV Maximum Continuous Stay?
​If you’re working in New Zealand on an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV), you need to know about the maximum continuous stay (MCS). This is the longest period you can stay in the country on one or more AEWVs before needing to take a break.
Once you reach your MCS, you must leave New Zealand for 12 consecutive months before applying for another AEWV.
How long can you stay?

• Skill level 1–3 roles (higher-skilled): up to 5 years total
• Skill level 4–5 roles (lower-skilled): up to 3 years

After your maximum stay, you must leave the country or apply for a different visa type if eligible. Employers cannot keep AEWV holders past their MCS.

Who Is Affected?
These rules affect:

• AEWV holders who first received their visa in 2022–2023
• Migrants on repeated AEWVs that together reach the MCS
• Employers with long-term migrant staff needing continuity

From mid-2025, many AEWV holders will begin reaching their MCS. Now is the time to check your dates and plan ahead.

What Employers & Migrants Should Do
Migrants:

• Check your AEWV grant date and job classification
• Plan early if your MCS will be reached soon
• Explore other visa pathways like residence (if eligible)

Employers:

• Track staff visa expiry and MCS timelines
• Do not assume staff can renew their AEWV automatically
• Consider long-term planning if you want to retain migrant workers

Summary

• AEWV maximum stay is 3 or 5 years depending on skill level
• After reaching your limit, 12-month stand-down applies
• Many early AEWV holders are reaching their limit in 2025
• Planning ahead is essential to avoid losing staff or being forced to leave NZ

FAQ:
Can I renew my AEWV after reaching my maximum stay?
No. You must leave New Zealand for 12 months before reapplying.
Does time on other visa types count toward MCS?
No. Only time spent on AEWVs counts.
Can I apply for a different visa instead of leaving NZ?
Yes—if eligible. You’ll need to meet the criteria for that visa.
Can employers extend an AEWV past the maximum stay?
No. Once the MCS is reached, the AEWV cannot be renewed.

​Need help planning your next visa move?

Whether you're approaching your AEWV maximum stay or exploring other options, our team at Immigration Trust is here to help. 
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