Job check redesign

We are making improvements to the job check stage of the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) scheme. These changes are designed to make the process more efficient.

The job check allows us to assess whether a job is genuine, pays at least market rate, offers suitable terms and conditions, and whether the employer has made genuine attempts to recruit New Zealanders.

What is changing?

From Monday 29 September 2025, a redesigned online job check form will be introduced, along with refreshed immigration requirements. These updates aim to make the process clearer and more intuitive for employers and immigration professionals.

Key improvements include:

• Clearer guidance throughout the form to help users understand what they need to include in their application.
• Built-in checks to ensure all necessary information is included before submission.
• Streamlined sections that align with updated immigration requirements.

These changes will reduce processing delays, and support faster decisions for employers who meet the requirements.

The redesign is based on feedback from immigration staff, advisers, employers, and other regular users of the system. Their input helped shape a more practical and user-friendly experience.

Submit everything you need

Employers may notice that the updated job check form asks for some new information upfront.  Providing this information upfront helps ensure faster and more efficient processing.

Employers should include:

• Why the role is needed.
• The size of the business.
• How many New Zealanders are currently employed (for large organisations this can be approximated).

Providing this information early helps ensure applications are complete, minimises the need for follow-up, and makes the process smoother for everyone. It also gives our processing staff a clearer understanding of the business context and the rationale for the role, supporting more efficient and informed assessments.

What happens to draft applications?

When the new job check portal goes live on Monday 29 September 2025 employers will not be able to access or submit draft job check applications saved in the current system.

If you have a draft in progress, you must either:

• submit it before 08:00 Sunday 28 September 2025, or
• start a new application using the updated form from Monday 29 September.

Updated guidance and support materials will be available to help employers prepare for the change.