New Zealand revises job change rules for migrant workers under Accredited Employer Work Visa

The Immigration department of New Zealand has updated the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) job change process to better protect migrant workers while keeping transfers between connected businesses straightforward. The changes came into effect on 17 November 2025.

Under the new rules, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) can pause 'job change' applications if serious concerns arise about an employer. Pauses may occur if the employer’s accreditation was revoked in the past 12 months, if the business is under investigation or prosecution for immigration non-compliance, or if credible evidence of poor employment practices or migrant exploitation exists.

Any paused application will only proceed once accreditation decisions are confirmed. If an employer’s accreditation is denied or revoked, the job change application will also be declined.


INZ emphasised that these measures are exceptional. Most employers meeting immigration standards will see their applications processed as usual. “Most employers do the right thing, and their applications will continue as usual. These changes give us flexibility to investigate when we have concerns and protect migrants from exploitation,” INZ said.

The updated job change process applies only to transfers following a business sale, merger, or restructure between connected entities. It does not cover moves to unrelated employers.

Employers are advised to apply promptly for accreditation after a business sale or restructure and maintain good employment practices to avoid delays. Genuine employers who meet the standards will not be affected.

These updates aim to strengthen protections for migrant workers while ensuring that legitimate business transfers can continue without unnecessary disruption.