Changing employer on an AEWV: Job Change step by step

When you need a Job Change

• A Job Change applies to AEWV, Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV) and Peak Seasonal Visa (PSV) holders. Other work visas use a plain variation of conditions.
• You need to apply if you're changing employer, job or location. If your visa conditions say any job, any employer and any location, you don't need to apply.
• Moving to a role with the same employer, same core duties and same location generally doesn't need one. If in doubt, ask INZ or an adviser.
• A Job Change does not change your visa's expiry date.

What the new employer needs

• Accreditation under the AEWV scheme (you can check this on INZ's accredited employer list). If the employer isn't accredited, they would need to complete the Employer Supplementary Form (INZ 1113) in some cases: check the current INZ guidance.
• A valid job check for your role, of the same visa type you hold. A job check for a different visa type means you can't use a Job Change and must apply for a new visa.
• The role must meet the AEWV requirements, including pay at or above the market rate and the median-wage rules in force. INZ's median wage rose to $35.00 an hour from 9 March 2026 and linked thresholds updated with it, and AEWV English language requirements extended to skill level 3 roles from 1 June 2026 (Job Change applications are exempt). Ask the employer to check INZ's current settings.
• A job offer or employment agreement with employer name, your name, job title, location, duties, pay, hours and duration.

A job check involves the employer, not you. You can't create one yourself. If an employer says 'just apply for the job', make sure they understand that they need accreditation and a job check first.

Documents you'll typically upload

• Passport copy (PDF, under 10MB).
• Job offer or employment agreement for the new job.
• The job token (job check) number from the new employer.
• Evidence of qualifications if you are changing occupation.
• Employer Supplementary Form (INZ 1113) if the employer is not accredited.
• A short covering letter stating your notice period, if you are still working one.
• If someone applies for you: Work Visa Declaration (INZ 1225).

Fees are paid by Visa or Mastercard credit card at the end of the online form, and payment must be completed for the application to be submitted. INZ publishes the Job Change fee on its Fees, decision times and where to apply page, which we could not confirm, so check it. INZ's wait-times page lists Variation of Conditions - Work at about 1.5 weeks on average, most within 2 weeks. Changes only start once INZ approves and issues an updated eVisa.

If your employer was sold or restructured

If the business changes hands, and only the employer's name changes, INZ's Job Change form asks for evidence of the sale or restructure and evidence of your job offer or ongoing employment. The new employer generally needs to be accredited or to have applied for accreditation. Ask INZ or an adviser which route fits your case.

What if your visa expires while you wait?

• Apply for the new visa or change before your current visa expires.
• If your current temporary visa will expire while an application is pending, INZ normally issues an Interim Visa so you can stay lawfully. Check its work conditions: they may not allow work.
• If you can't get a Job Change, you'll need a new visa application. A licensed adviser can tell you which.

Finding accredited employers

• Search the INZ accredited employer list, then check careers pages.
• Tell recruiters up front that you hold an AEWV and need an accredited employer.
• Roles in shortage areas (health, construction, trades, agriculture) are more likely to have employers set up for it.
• Be wary of anyone who asks you to pay for a job offer. That can be exploitation: see our reporting guide.