The Main Change: A Wider Net
As of June 1, 2026, New Zealand has expanded its English language requirement to a larger group of work visa applicants. Previously, the rule mostly applied to jobs classified at skill levels 4 and 5 (roles with less formal training). The new rules now
also cover many roles classified as skill level 3 under the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) scheme. This is a significant update because level 3 jobs—which include roles like chefs, trade supervisors, and hospitality managers—make up about half of all AEWV applications. The government's stated goal is to help migrants integrate, understand their employment rights, and communicate effectively in the community.
What is a Skill Level 3 Role?
New Zealand's immigration system classifies jobs into five skill levels using frameworks called ANZSCO and the National Occupation List (NOL). While level 1 jobs are highly specialised roles like doctors, and levels 4 and 5 require minimal formal training, level 3 sits in the middle. These are typically skilled trade, technical, and service roles that might require a trade qualification, an apprenticeship, or several years of practical experience. Examples include electricians, dental technicians, retail managers, and community support workers. If your intended job falls into this category, you now need to plan for the English language requirement.
The Required English Score
The good news is that the required standard is not designed to be a major academic hurdle. Immigration New Zealand has set the minimum benchmark at a level that proves basic, functional English for everyday situations. The most common test, IELTS (General Training), requires a minimum overall band score of 4.0. Equivalent scores from other approved tests are also accepted, such as a TOEFL iBT score of 32 or a PTE Academic score of 30. This level is officially described as a "limited user," meaning you can handle basic communication in familiar contexts.
Which Tests Are Accepted?
Immigration New Zealand accepts results from several major international English tests. Your test result must be no more than two years old at the time you apply. The most common options for AEWV applicants include: IELTS (General Training or Academic), PTE Academic, and TOEFL iBT. It is important to note a very recent change for healthcare professionals. From July 13, 2026, Immigration New Zealand will only accept results from the Occupational English Test (OET) if the test was taken entirely in-person at a supervised test centre. OET at Home tests taken on or after this date will no longer be valid for visa applications.
Who is Exempt from the Test?
Not every applicant needs to sit for a language test. You may be exempt from the requirement if you can prove your English proficiency through other means. The most common exemptions include being a citizen of an English-speaking country like the UK, USA, Canada, or Ireland. You may also be exempt if you have a recognised history of study or work in an English-speaking environment. Furthermore, transitional arrangements are in place for some current AEWV holders. If you already hold an AEWV that expires on or before December 1, 2026, you may be exempt when applying for a new visa for a skill level 3 role. Those who have already provided English evidence in a past application are also generally exempt.
