ENGLISH REQUIREMENTS FOR SKILLS LEVEL 3 FOR WORK VISA APPLICATION

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New English Requirements for Skill Level 3 NZ Work Visa Applicants

If you are planning to apply for an New Zealand work visa as a skilled tradie, there is an important update you need to know.

Starting 1 June 2026, Immigration New Zealand introduced new English language requirements for applicants under ANZSCO Skill Level 3 applying for the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV).

This change affects many workers across the trades industry — including welders, carpenters, roofers, floor layers, and machinery operators.

What Changed?

Previously, applicants under Skill Level 3 were not required to prove their English language ability when applying for an AEWV.

However, from 1 June 2026 onward, applicants must now provide evidence of English proficiency through an approved English language test.

For many applicants, this is now a mandatory part of the visa process.

Who Is Affected?

The new requirement applies to workers in many trade and technical occupations under ANZSCO Skill Level 3, including:

  • Welders
  • Carpenters
  • Roofers
  • Floor Layers
  • Machinery Operators
  • Other skilled trade workers

If you are currently preparing your work visa application, or your employer is supporting your move to New Zealand, it is important to plan for this requirement as early as possible.

Approved English Tests and Minimum Scores

Immigration New Zealand currently accepts five approved English language tests.

IELTS

Minimum overall score: 4.0
Both General Training and Academic versions are accepted.

TOEFL iBT

Minimum overall score: 31

PTE Academic

Minimum overall score: 29

Cambridge B2 First / B2 First for Schools

Minimum overall score: 142

OET (Occupational English Test)

Minimum requirement: Grade D or higher in all four skills:

  • Listening
  • Reading
  • Writing
  • Speaking

Are These Scores Difficult?

The good news is that these are considered basic communication-level scores.

If you can:

  • communicate in English at work,
  • understand instructions,
  • and hold everyday conversations,

then these scores are generally achievable with preparation and practice.

Practical Tips for Applicants

1. Choose the Right Test

Many applicants prefer IELTS because:

  • it is widely recognised,
  • available in many countries,
  • and easier to book compared to some other tests.

2. Book Early

Test centres can fill up quickly, especially during busy seasons. Results may also take several days or weeks to be released.

Delaying your test could delay:

  • your job start date,
  • your visa application,
  • or your employer’s hiring process.

3. Prepare Ahead of Time

Even though the required scores are not very high, preparation still matters. Familiarising yourself with the test format can improve your confidence and performance.

Final Thoughts

This new English language requirement is now an important step for Skill Level 3 workers applying for a New Zealand work visa.

The key is preparation:

  • understand the requirements,
  • choose your test early,
  • and avoid leaving everything until the last minute.

For applicants who are unsure which English test to take — or what documents are needed for an AEWV application — seeking proper guidance early can make the process smoother and less stressful.

 

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