Metal Fabricators cut, shape, and weld metal components for structures, equipment, and machinery. NZ's manufacturing and construction sectors create ongoing demand for skilled fabricators.
Talk to a licensed NZ immigration adviser about your Metal Fabricator visa pathway.
Get Free Assessment →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.
Metal Fabricators read engineering drawings and use cutting, forming, and welding techniques to manufacture metal components and assemblies. They work in manufacturing, construction, and engineering workshops producing everything from structural steelwork to custom machinery. **What the work involves:** Reading technical drawings, cutting and profiling metal using plasma, oxy-fuel, and laser equipment, forming and bending, MIG/TIG/stick welding, assembly and quality inspection. **Where the demand is:** Structural steel fabricators, engineering workshops, manufacturing plants, and construction companies. High demand in Auckland, Christchurch (post-earthquake rebuild ongoing), and the Waikato/Bay of Plenty manufacturing belt. **AEWV pathway:** Metal Fabricator (ANZSCO 322311) is ANZSCO Skill Level 3 — qualifying for a 5-year AEWV with no English evidence requirement from an INZ-accredited employer.
Salaries are based on NZ market data. Regional and rural positions may offer allowances, relocation support, and retention bonuses in addition to base salary.
Source: Immigration NZ Operational Manual (WA3.16) — updated 9 March 2026
Yes. Metal Fabricator (ANZSCO 322311) is ANZSCO Skill Level 3, qualifying for a 5-year AEWV with no English evidence requirement.
Yes — NZ's construction and manufacturing sectors have ongoing demand. Structural steel fabricators in particular struggle to find enough skilled welders and fabricators locally.
Overseas certifications (AWS D1.1, ASME IX, ISO 9606) are widely recognised by NZ employers. Some employers may require a practical weld test on arrival, but formal re-certification is rarely required.
Enter your email and we'll match you to the best visa pathway for your situation — no commitment, no spam.
We'll be in touch within 24 hours. Unsubscribe anytime.
Speak with a licensed NZ immigration adviser. We'll review your qualifications, registration requirements, and visa options — no obligation.