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Business sales, mergers and restructures can reshape a business quickly, creating uncertainty for both employers and migrant workers. During these transitions, employers must balance operational needs with their immigration obligations, especially when Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) holders are part of the workforce.
To support these situations, Immigration New Zealand has strengthened the Job Change settings to provide greater clarity and protection during business transfers. These updates ensure that AEWV workers are moved only into compliant and suitable employment environments, while genuine employers can continue transfers with confidence.
New powers to pause Job Change applications
From 17 November 2025, Immigration New Zealand has held the authority to pause Job Change applications when significant concerns arise about the employer receiving the transferring workers. This mechanism applies only in exceptional cases and ensures that workers are not moved into businesses that may be unsuitable or unsafe.
A Job Change application may be paused if:
- Employer’s accreditation was revoked within the previous 12 months.
- Employer is under active investigation or prosecution for immigration related non-compliance.
- Credible evidence exists of poor employment practices or migrant exploitation.
The pause remains in effect until Immigration New Zealand confirms the employer’s accreditation decision. If accreditation is declined or revoked, the Job Change application will be declined.
What the simplified Job Change process allows
The simplified Job Change process permits AEWV holders to transfer to a connected entity following a business sale, merger or restructure without a full job check. The receiving employer only needs to have applied for accreditation, reducing delays during genuine business transitions.
This pathway applies only when the transfer occurs between connected entities as part of the business transaction. If the worker moves to an unrelated employer, a full job check and standard AEWV requirements apply.
Why these changes matter for employers
The updated Job Change settings are important for employers because they:
- strengthen protections for migrant workers by ensuring they are transferred only to safe and compliant workplaces
- maintain a straightforward process for reputable employers with strong compliance records
- apply pauses only in exceptional cases where serious concerns exist about the new employer
- minimise disruption for businesses that meet accreditation and employment standards
- reinforce the need for employers with outstanding compliance issues to address risks before transferring AEWV workers
What employers should prepare for
To support a smooth Job Change process during a business sale or restructure, employers should:
- apply for accreditation as soon as a business transaction is confirmed
- maintain accurate employment and immigration records
- resolve any compliance issues before submitting a Job Change request
- ensure documentation clearly demonstrates a genuine transfer between connected entities.
Being well prepared helps reduce processing delays and shows that the business is able to meet its AEWV obligations.
How Absolute Immigration NZ support you
Business transitions involve complex operational and immigration considerations. Absolute Immigration NZ provides structured support to help employers navigate Job Change requirements, prepare documentation, assess risks that may affect accreditation, and maintain compliance throughout the transfer.
We work closely with employers to confirm eligibility, align evidence and manage timelines, ensuring that workforce transitions proceed smoothly and with confidence.
Get in touch
For expert support with business restructures and AEWV workforce transfers, contact our licensed immigration advisers at aisupport@absoluteimmigration.com. We will ensure your process is managed with clarity and compliance.
