Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has announced updates to the simplified Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) Job Change process, effective from 17 November 2025. The changes empower INZ to pause Job Change applications in exceptional cases when serious concerns about the employer arise, as described in the official announcement. 1
WHY THIS MATTERS
The new pause mechanism is aimed at safeguarding migrant employees during business transfers, such as sales, mergers, or restructures between connected entities. For global mobility stakeholders, this development introduces an additional compliance checkpoint for employers seeking to transfer sponsored migrant workers.
Key Highlights
Pause in Job Change Applications
INZ may pause Job Change applications if the employer’s accreditation was revoked within the past 12 months, if the employer is under active investigation or prosecution for immigration-related non-compliance, or if there is credible evidence of poor employment practices or migrant exploitation.
Scope of Application
The pause mechanism only applies to transfers between connected entities (for example, following a sale, merger, or restructure). It does not apply to transfers to unrelated employers.
Duration and Outcome
The pause remains in place until accreditation decisions are finalized. If the employer’s accreditation is declined or revoked, the Job Change application will also be declined.
Employer Guidance
Employers are advised to apply for accreditation promptly after a business sale or restructure and to maintain good employment practices to avoid compliance issues.
Exemption for Genuine Employers
Employers who meet immigration standards and maintain accreditation will not be affected by these changes; applications for most employers will proceed as usual.
KPMG INSIGHTS
In light of the upcoming changes, organisations, entities, and individuals within the scope of the reform may wish to consider the following:
- Organizations may wish to review their accreditation status regularly, address any employment practice concerns proactively, and comply with immigration standards before initiating any business transfer involving migrant employees.
- Employers might plan for potential delays in the job transfer process if under investigation or facing accreditation issues.
If assignees and/or programme managers have any questions about the process and its potential impact , they should consult with their qualified immigration adviser or a member of the immigration team with KPMG in Australia, which has responsibility for New Zealand immigration matters (see the Contacts section).
FOOTNOTE:
1 New Zealand Immigration, Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment, “Update to simplified Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) Job Change process,” published on 20 November 2025.
Contacts
Disclaimer
* Please note the KPMG International member firm in the United States does not provide immigration or labour law services. However, KPMG Law LLP in Canada can assist clients with U.S. immigration matters.
**Please note also that the KPMG International member firm in Australia is currently providing New Zealand immigration services.
The information contained in this newsletter was submitted by the KPMG International member firm in Australia.
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