🌐
🔵 Green List Tier 2 — AEWV Eligible

Data and Communications Technician
Immigration to New Zealand

Data and Communications Technicians install, maintain and repair data cabling, networks, and communications infrastructure. NZ's fibre rollout and smart-building boom keep this occupation in steady demand.

ANZSCO Code
342312
ANZSCO Skill Level
Level 3
Sector
Technology
NZ Salary Range
NZ$52,000 – NZ$75,000
Visa Pathway
AEWV Eligible

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About This Occupation in New Zealand

🔵 AEWV Eligible — Skill Level 3

This is an ANZSCO Skill Level 3 occupation, qualifying for an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) with up to 5 years duration. After 2 years of NZ work experience you can apply for Skilled Migrant Category residence.

Data and Communications Technicians install, test, and maintain data cabling, structured cabling systems, telecommunications networks, and AV/security systems in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. They are the hands-on tradespeople behind NZ's network infrastructure. **What the work involves:** Structured cabling installation (Cat 5e, Cat 6, Cat 6A, fibre optic), network cabinet and patch panel installation, testing and fault diagnosis using cable testers, VoIP and telephony system setup, CCTV and access control wiring. **Where the demand is:** Telecommunications contractors, structured cabling companies, IT infrastructure firms, and building services companies. The NZ government's UFB (Ultra-Fast Broadband) rollout has created ongoing demand nationally. **AEWV pathway:** Data and Communications Technician (ANZSCO 342312) is ANZSCO Skill Level 3 — qualifying for a 5-year AEWV with no English evidence requirement from an accredited employer.

NZ Salary Range for Data and Communications Technician

NZ$52,000 – NZ$75,000
Fibre-certified technicians and those with BICSI or Fluke certifications earn toward the top. Field supervisors can earn significantly more.

Salaries are based on NZ market data. Regional and rural positions may offer allowances, relocation support, and retention bonuses in addition to base salary.

Visa Pathways for Data and Communications Technician

Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)

⏱ 3–5 months 💰 NZ$700
  • Accredited employer job offer
  • Skill Level 3 — 5-year visa
  • Meets NZ median wage

Skilled Migrant Category (after 2 years)

⏱ 12–18 months 💰 NZ$4,050
  • 2 years NZ work experience
  • SMC points threshold met
ANZSCO Skill Level 3 Skill Level 3 — Trade qualification or equivalent
What this means for AEWV applications:
Visa duration: Up to 5 years (Skill Level 3 is eligible for the 5-year AEWV maximum)
English evidence: Not required for Skill Level 1–3 occupations
Partner work visa: Available if earning ≥ NZ$28.00/hr (from March 2026)
Dependent children: Eligible if family income ≥ NZ$55,844/year

Source: Immigration NZ Operational Manual (WA3.16) — updated 9 March 2026

Required Qualifications

  • Trade certificate in telecommunications, data cabling, or electrical (communications endorsement)
  • BICSI INSTC or equivalent structured cabling certification preferred
  • Fibre optic splicing and termination experience valued
  • Registered Communications Cabling Worker (RCCW) licence may be required in NZ

Registration / Licensing: Communications cabling work in NZ must be performed by a Registered Communications Cabling Worker (RCCW) or under supervision of one. Check current requirements with ENERGYSAFE NZ.

How to Immigrate to New Zealand as a Data and Communications Technician

1
Document cabling standards worked to (TIA-568, ISO 11801) and any BICSI or fibre certifications
2
Target telecommunications contractors and ICT infrastructure firms in NZ
3
Secure a job offer from an INZ-accredited employer
4
Employer submits Job Check for Data and Communications Technician (ANZSCO 342312)
5
Apply for AEWV — 5-year visa, no English test

Is Data and Communications Technician on the NZ Green List? — FAQs

Can a Data and Communications Technician get an AEWV in NZ?

Yes. Data and Communications Technician (ANZSCO 342312) is ANZSCO Skill Level 3, qualifying for a 5-year AEWV with no English evidence requirement.

Do I need an NZ licence to work in data cabling?

Communications cabling in NZ requires a Registered Communications Cabling Worker (RCCW) registration. This can be obtained in NZ after demonstrating equivalent overseas qualifications and experience.

Is fibre optic experience required?

Fibre experience is highly valued given NZ's UFB rollout. Many employers will train copper-cabling technicians in fibre, but applicants with existing fibre splicing and testing skills are preferred.

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