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🔵 Green List Tier 2 — AEWV Eligible

Financial Manager
Immigration to New Zealand

Financial Managers lead finance functions, overseeing reporting, treasury, risk management, and strategic financial planning in NZ organisations. Senior finance leadership roles are in consistent demand.

ANZSCO Code
132211
ANZSCO Skill Level
Level 1
Sector
Business
NZ Salary Range
NZ$95,000 – NZ$165,000
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.

Financial Managers in New Zealand lead the finance function of organisations — overseeing financial reporting, treasury management, budgeting, compliance, audit, and strategic planning. They may hold titles such as Finance Manager, Finance Director, CFO, or Head of Finance depending on organisation size. NZ's corporate and public sector employers actively recruit experienced financial managers, particularly those with CA ANZ or CPA qualifications and experience managing a full finance team. Auckland's corporate sector, Wellington's public service, and Christchurch's rebuilding economy all create strong demand.

NZ Salary Range for Financial Manager

NZ$95,000 – NZ$165,000
CFOs and Finance Directors in listed companies, large corporates, or complex public sector organisations earn above NZ$165,000. Total remuneration including bonus for senior finance roles can reach NZ$200,000+.

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 Financial Manager

Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)

⏱ 3–5 months 💰 NZ$700
  • Job offer from an INZ-accredited employer
  • ANZSCO Skill Level 1 — 5-year visa
  • Meets NZ immigration median wage (NZ$35.00/hr)
  • No English test required
  • Bachelor's degree and relevant experience

Skilled Migrant Category (after 2 years)

⏱ 12–18 months 💰 NZ$4,050
  • 2 years NZ skilled work experience
  • SMC points threshold met
  • CA ANZ / CPA / ACCA or equivalent qualification
ANZSCO Skill Level 1 Skill Level 1 — Bachelor's degree or higher
What this means for AEWV applications:
Visa duration: Up to 5 years (Skill Level 1 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

  • Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or Commerce (NZQCF Level 7 or higher)
  • CA ANZ, CPA, ACCA, or CIMA qualification strongly preferred
  • 7+ years progressive finance experience including team leadership
  • Experience managing budgets of NZ$5 million or more
  • ERP systems experience (SAP, Oracle, Dynamics, or similar)

Registration / Licensing: No mandatory NZ licensing. CA ANZ membership is the standard credential for senior finance leadership roles in NZ. Overseas CA, CPA, ACCA, and CIMA members can transfer via mutual recognition pathways.

How to Immigrate to New Zealand as a Financial Manager

1
Obtain CA ANZ mutual recognition for your overseas CA/CPA/ACCA/CIMA qualification
2
Document team leadership experience: team size, budget responsibility, board reporting
3
Target NZ CFO, Finance Director, and Head of Finance roles via Seek, LinkedIn, and specialist recruiters
4
Secure a job offer from an INZ-accredited employer (salary will typically exceed NZ$35.00/hr)
5
Apply for AEWV — 5-year visa, no English test required

Is Financial Manager on the NZ Green List? — FAQs

Can a Financial Manager get an AEWV in New Zealand?

Yes. Financial Manager (ANZSCO 132211) is ANZSCO Skill Level 1, qualifying for a 5-year AEWV. Most Financial Manager roles in NZ pay well above the NZ$35.00/hr immigration median wage threshold.

What qualifications are expected for Financial Manager roles in NZ?

NZ employers typically expect a CA ANZ, CPA, or ACCA qualification for senior financial manager roles, alongside at least 7 years of progressive finance experience including people management. International CA or CPA qualifications are transferable via CA ANZ mutual recognition.

Is there demand for Financial Managers in New Zealand?

Yes — NZ's growth sectors (infrastructure, construction, healthcare, technology) are expanding their finance functions. Auckland's corporate market and Wellington's public sector are the largest employers. Regional NZ (Tauranga, Hamilton, Christchurch) also has strong demand for experienced finance leaders.

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