The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) framework continues to evolve, and with the latest update to the simplified AEWV Job Change process, we are committed to helping employers and migrant workers navigate these requirements with clarity, confidence, and full compliance. The updated system, effective 17 November 2025, strengthens migrant worker protections while ensuring that legitimate business transitions remain smooth, fast, and predictable.
Overview of the Updated AEWV Job Change Process
Under the revised Accredited Employer Work Visa framework, Immigration New Zealand now has the authority to pause Job Change applications when there are serious concerns about an employer’s compliance, conduct, or accreditation status. While the process remains straightforward for compliant businesses, the new safeguards offer stronger protection against exploitation and unlawful practices.
These enhancements apply only to Job Change requests associated with internal business transitions such as:
- A business sale
- A merger
- A restructure
- Transfers between connected entities
They do not apply when a migrant worker seeks to move to a completely unrelated employer, which follows an entirely different AEWV pathway.
Key Conditions That Trigger a Job Change Application Pause
We ensure comprehensive support for employers by explaining the exact circumstances where INZ may pause a Job Change request. The application may be put on hold if any of the following apply:
1. Recent Accreditation Revocation
If an employer’s accreditation has been revoked within the previous 12 months, Job Change applications can be paused until INZ completes relevant assessments.
2. Active Investigations or Prosecutions
Ongoing investigations or legal proceedings related to immigration non-compliance may result in a temporary hold on applications until matters are resolved.
3. Credible Evidence of Poor Employment Practices
If INZ receives reliable information indicating:
- Migrant exploitation
- Serious employment law violations
- Systemic poor workplace conduct
the Job Change process can be paused to protect affected workers.
Outcome of a Paused Job Change Application
When an application is paused, the hold remains in place until INZ finalises the employer’s accreditation status. Two outcomes are possible:
- If accreditation is confirmed or reinstated, the Job Change proceeds as normal.
- If accreditation is revoked or declined, the Job Change application will be declined immediately.
This mechanism helps maintain a safe and compliant environment for all migrant workers while ensuring businesses maintain lawful employment standards.
Also read: Ending Employment on an AEWV? Here’s How to Stay Compliant
What Employers Must Do to Stay Compliant
We guide employers on maintaining full compliance to prevent disruptions in their AEWV processes:
1. Apply for Accreditation Promptly
During a business sale or restructure, it is essential to apply for accreditation as early as possible to avoid gaps that could affect migrant employees.
2. Maintain High Employment Standards
Employers should consistently:
- Maintain lawful employment practices
- Pay workers correctly and on time
- Keep complete and accurate records
- Resolve compliance issues before applying for a Job Change
These proactive steps ensure uninterrupted processing.
3. Ensure Smooth Internal Transfers
When transferring migrant staff between connected entities, ensure job details remain consistent with AEWV policy requirements.
Benefits of the Revised Job Change Process for Migrants
The new system is designed to offer greater security for migrant workers by ensuring that they are not unknowingly transferred into unsafe or non-compliant employment environments. By pausing applications only in exceptional circumstances, INZ protects workers while keeping the Job Change pathway fast and efficient for genuine employers.
Why Staying Proactive Matters in 2025
In the updated AEWV landscape, businesses that uphold high employment standards will continue to experience smooth Job Change processing. At the same time, migrant workers benefit from enhanced safeguards designed to eliminate risks associated with non-compliant employers.
How Immigration Chambers Support Employers and Migrants Through AEWV Changes
We at Immigration Chambers specialise in guiding employers and migrant workers through the evolving AEWV framework by offering:
- Expert support with accreditation and Job Change applications
- Compliance reviews to identify and resolve risks
- Tailored assistance during business transitions
- Representation and guidance if investigations or compliance concerns arise
With deep expertise in immigration policy and real-world business requirements, our expert Immigration Lawyer Auckland ensures seamless transitions, full compliance, and protection for both employers and workers.
Wrapping up
The 2025 AEWV Job Change update reinforces New Zealand’s commitment to migrant safety while ensuring business transfers remain efficient. By maintaining accreditation, proactively addressing compliance, and following best practices, employers can navigate these changes confidently and without disruption.
FAQs
1. What is the updated AEWV Job Change rule introduced in November 2025?
The updated rule allows INZ to pause Job Change applications if serious concerns exist about an employer’s accreditation, compliance, or employment practices, ensuring safer transitions for migrant workers.
2. When can INZ pause a Job Change application?
Applications may be paused if an employer’s accreditation was recently revoked, if they are under active investigation, or if credible evidence of migrant exploitation or poor employment practices exists.
3. Does the updated Job Change process apply when shifting to an unrelated employer?
No. The simplified Job Change process only applies to transfers involving business sales, mergers, restructures, or movements between connected entities, not unrelated employers.
4. What happens if an employer’s accreditation is declined during a pause?
If accreditation is declined or revoked during the pause period, the Job Change application will also be declined.
5. What should employers do to avoid delays under the new rules?
Employers should maintain strong employment practices, resolve compliance issues early, and apply for accreditation promptly during business transitions.