The purpose of accreditation is to allow employers to more easily recruit highly talented workers from overseas, facilitating employers' access to global skills and knowledge thus complementing the Governments education, training, employment policies and economic strategies.

It is envisaged that the people recruited under this policy will have a high level of skills, particularly in knowledge based industries and other areas that will contribute to New Zealand's capacity base.

If an employer becomes an Accredited Employer, they can offer employment to workers from outside New Zealand without having to prove that there are no suitably qualified New Zealanders available, or readily able to be trained, to do the work.

Their prospective employees will then be able to apply for work visas and permits under the Talented (Accredited Employers) Work Policy.

Approved employers are granted accreditation for 12 months