AEWV Job Changes: New Guidance for Migrants and Accredited Employers

Immigration New Zealand has released updated guidance clarifying what Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) holders and employers must do when a worker changes jobs or finishes employment. This update is particularly important for ensuring visa holders remain compliant and applications are processed without delay.

When is a Job Change Required?
In most cases, an AEWV holder must apply for a Job Change if they:

• Change employers
• Move to a different work location
• Transition into a role with different duties or responsibilities

A Job Change application usually requires a job token number from the new employer, confirming the role meets accreditation and job check requirements.

What to Include in a Job Change Application
To avoid processing delays, Job Change applications must include a valid job offer or employment agreement showing:

• Employer and migrant names
• Job title and location
• Pay rate and hours of work
• Length of employment
• Core duties and responsibilities

Immigration New Zealand has reduced the amount of information required, making the process simpler, but all key role details must still be provided.

Important Reminder About Job Tokens 
Employers (or advisers) should not send migrants the job token “unique link” from Immigration Online.
Instead, the employer must provide the job token number only, which the migrant includes in their Job Change application. If the link is sent by mistake, Immigration New Zealand will withdraw it and reissue the Job Change correctly.

Situations Where a Job Change May Not Be Needed
An AEWV holder may not need to apply for a Job Change if:

• The role has the same core tasks and functions
• The employer and work location remain unchanged

For example, a promotion where duties remain essentially the same may not require a Job Change.
Where employment changes result from a business sale or restructure, a streamlined process may apply.
No Job Change is required if the only change is to reporting lines.

When Employment Ends
Accredited employers must notify Immigration New Zealand within 10 days if a migrant stops working for them and still has one month or more left on their visa. This includes the end of fixed-term employment.
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It’s also important to note that approval of a Job Change does not extend the original visa expiry date.