Can I get a visa for a kitchen hand role?

But typically through the Peak Seasonal Visa or if the employer has a specific exemption. Most AEWV roles require a higher skill level (ANZSCO 1-3).

Does "Visa Support" mean the employer pays for my visa?

Usually, the employer pays for the Job Check fee, but the worker must pay their own work visa application fees. Some employers reimburse this as a perk.

How long is the AEWV granted for?

For roles at or above the median wage, the visa is typically granted for up to 5 years .

NZ Food Service & Restaurant Hiring: Your 2025 Guide to Visa Support & Jobs

Are you a skilled chef, a passionate barista, or an experienced restaurant manager looking to build your career in the beautiful land of New Zealand (Aotearoa)? The New Zealand hospitality sector is currently undergoing a specific transition. Although demand for talent remains high in popular destinations like Queenstown and Auckland, the rules for visa support and employer accreditation have changed significantly in 2025.

Whether you are an employer looking to fill a staff shortage or a migrant worker seeking a pathway to residency, this guide will explain everything you need to know about the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV), new seasonal visa categories, and the latest wage requirements.

1. “In-Demand” Roles: Who is Getting Sponsored?

In 2025, the New Zealand food service industry is prioritizing roles where there is a genuine skill shortage. Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has divided these into two categories:

Back of House (Kitchen Operations)

Executive and Sous Chefs: Very high demand; often eligible for the Green List (Work to Residence).
Chef de Partie (CDP) and Line Cooks: Essential for high-volume restaurants.
Pastry Chefs and Bakers: Specialized skills that often qualify for relocation assistance.
Kitchen Hands: Now often hired under the new Peak Seasonal Visa (PSV) introduced in December 2025.

Front of House (Customer Service)

Restaurant and Duty Managers: Must hold an LCQ (Manager’s Certificate) to manage alcohol sales.
Baristas: Very high demand in Wellington and Auckland CBD.
Sommeliers and Mixologists: Targeted by luxury resorts and fine-dining wineries.
Food & Beverage Attendants: Often supported in seasonal tourism hubs.

2. 2025 Visa and Immigration Rules

The “Accredited Employer” system is the foundation of hiring in New Zealand. You cannot obtain a work visa unless your employer is INZ accredited.

Key Changes for 2025:

Median Wage Threshold: As of August 18, 2025, the minimum wage for most AEWV roles has increased to $33.56 per hour.
Market Rate Settings: Since March 2025, INZ has adopted a “market rate” model to ensure migrants receive the same pay as locals in that specific region.
New Seasonal Options: The Global Workforce Seasonal Visa and Peak Seasonal Visa launched in December 2025 have simplified the path for jobs lasting 7 to 9 months.

3. Best Locations for Visa Support

Region	Highest Demand	Why is it popular?
Auckland CBD	Fine Dining & Corporate Catering	The largest hub for high-end hospitality.
Queenstown & Wanaka	Luxury Resorts & Adventure Tourism	Constant staff shortages; higher chances of accommodation provided.
Wellington Central	Specialty Coffee & Craft Beer	Great demand for baristas and duty managers.
Hawke’s Bay	Winery Restaurants	Need for chefs and F&B staff during the harvest season.

4. Extra Benefits (Perks & Benefits)

To attract international talent, NZ employers are now offering more than just a salary:

Relocation Assistance: Help with flights or initial quarantine/housing.
Accommodation: Provision of housing in remote areas (like the West Coast or Milford Sound).
Professional Development: Opportunities to gain New Zealand certifications (e.g., NZQA Level 4 Cookery).
Roster Flexibility: Focus on work-life balance to ensure staff do not suffer from burnout.

Also Read:Romania Warehouse Worker Visa: Documentation and Fees 2026.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Get a Job with Visa Support

Check Accreditation: Ensure the company is an accredited employer. You can check this on the Immigration NZ website.
Check ANZSCO Level: Your job description must match the ANZSCO code for the visa to be approved.
Prepare a Complete Application: As of late 2025, INZ no longer waits for missing documents. Have your police certificates and English tests ready before submitting.
Understand the Wage: Ensure your offer is at least $33.56/hr (except for seasonal roles or those with specific exemptions).

(FAQs): NZ Food Service & Restaurant Hiring – Visa Support

Can I get a visa for a kitchen hand role?
But typically through the Peak Seasonal Visa or if the employer has a specific exemption. Most AEWV roles require a higher skill level (ANZSCO 1-3).
Does “Visa Support” mean the employer pays for my visa?
Usually, the employer pays for the Job Check fee, but the worker must pay their own work visa application fees. Some employers reimburse this as a perk.
How long is the AEWV granted for?
For roles at or above the median wage, the visa is typically granted for up to 5 years.

Final Advice

New Zealand’s hospitality sector is very vibrant, but “Accredited Employer” rules are strict. If you have the skills, 2026 is set to be an excellent year for tourism, and employers are ready to hire.

Would you like me to check your CV to see if it meets the NZ “Green List” criteria?

Disclaimer: This job information is shared for educational and informational purposes only. Please verify details from the official employer or government website (Immigration New Zealand) before applying.