Trusthaven Immigration Services

🚨 Important Update for Open Work Visa Holders in New Zealand (From April 2026) 🇳🇿

Immigration New Zealand has introduced new rules for open work visas, and if you’re currently on one (or planning to apply), this update is very important.

Here’s a simple breakdown 👇

👉 There are now 2 types of open work visas:

✅ 1. Visas that allow ANY work
You can:
✔ Work for any employer
✔ Be self-employed
✔ Run your own business

(Example: Partner visas, Post Study Work Visa)

⚠️ 2. Visas that require you to work for an employer
You:
✔ Must work for an employer
❌ Cannot run your own business

(Example: Working Holiday Visa)

🔴 Important rules for ALL open work visa holders:

❌ You cannot employ other people — even if you own a business
❌ Some industries remain strictly restricted

💡 Big clarification from INZ:
Self-employment is now clearly recognised as “work” — which removes a lot of past confusion.

🕒 Already doing something outside these new rules?
Good news 👇
You can continue until your current visa expires
…but you’ll need to follow the new rules for your next visa.

👍 Why this matters
These changes are designed to:
✔ Protect migrants
✔ Reduce confusion
✔ Ensure fair working conditions

If you’re unsure how this affects your situation, it’s best to get advice early and stay compliant.

📩 Feel free to message us if you need guidance — we’re happy to help.

Major Changes to Open Work Visa Conditions in New Zealand (Effective April 2026) Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has introduced important changes to open work visa conditions, effective from 20 April 2026. These updates aim to provide greater clarity around what type of work visa holders can undertake, while ensuring fair and compliant employment practices across New Zealand.Why T...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Gm-bRcrHUU

New Zealand Student Visa Changes 2026 | Work Rights & Post-Study Work Visa & Explained New Zealand has introduced major changes to student visa rules in 2026 — and these updates could significantly impact your study, work rights, and future res...

Thinking About Moving to Australia? The Subclass 189 Resident Visa Could Be Your Pathway! 🌏

If you’re living in New Zealand and dreaming of a new life in Australia, the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) might be your perfect opportunity. This is a points-based permanent residency visa that doesn’t require an employer or state sponsorship – meaning you can apply independently.

It is designed for skilled workers who have qualifications and work experience in occupations in demand in Australia, and who meet the points criteria based on age, education, work experience, and English language ability.

✅ Benefits at a glance:
👉Live and work anywhere in Australia
👉Bring your family and enjoy world-class healthcare and education
👉Enjoy permanent residency with a pathway to citizenship
👉Access a vibrant lifestyle, diverse culture, and endless opportunities

💼 How we help:
Our team at Trusthaven Immigration specialises in helping migrants from New Zealand navigate the Subclass 189 visa process. From assessing your points to preparing your application, we guide you step by step, making the process simple and stress-free.

📩 Message us today to find out if you qualify and take your first step toward life in Australia!

Visit us @ www.trusthavenimmigration.com

🚨 INZ Update: 91 New Occupations Recognised Under AEWV

From 3 November 2025, 91 new occupations will be recognised under the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) programme.

These roles are part of the National Occupation List (NOL) — New Zealand’s updated system for classifying jobs, replacing the old ANZSCO list. The NOL better reflects today’s job market and will be updated every year.

👷‍♀️ What this means:

Employers can submit job checks for these new roles from Nov 3, 2025.

AEWV holders in skill level 1–3 roles can stay longer and may bring their families.

Some skill level 4–5 workers may now move into these newly recognised occupations.

Applicants will need 3 years of experience or a relevant qualification.

This is great news for both employers and skilled workers — opening up more opportunities across New Zealand.

✅ Employers, make sure your accreditation is valid and your job description matches the NOL occupation before applying.

Want to know how this update affects your visa or recruitment plans? 📲 Get in touch today — we will be happy to guide you through the changes.

https://www.trusthavenimmigration.com/post/inz-update-recognizing-national-occupation-list-occupations-in-the-accredited-employer-work-visa

INZ Update - Recognizing National Occupation List occupations in the Accredited Employer Work Visa Effective 3 November 2025, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) will begin recognising 91 new occupations under the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) programme.This update ensures that higher-skilled roles listed in the National Occupation List (NOL) are properly recognized within New Zealand’s immigr...

✨ Big news for migrants and employers in New Zealand! ✨

The Government has announced major updates to the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Resident Visa starting August 2026.

🔹 Two new residence pathways will open up:
✔️ Skilled Work Experience Pathway – for skilled professionals with 5+ years’ experience (including 2 years in NZ at 1.1x the median wage).
✔️ Trades & Technician Pathway – for those in specified trades/technician roles with a Level 4+ qualification, 4 years’ experience, and 18 months’ NZ work at/above median wage.

Other changes include:
✅ More points for NZ qualifications 🎓
✅ Reduced NZ work experience requirements (max 2 years instead of 3) ⏱️
✅ Simpler wage rules 💰

These changes make it easier for talented migrants to call NZ home and for employers to retain the skilled people they need.

👉 Want to know what this means for you? Message us today for advice tailored to your situation.

Big Changes to the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa The New Zealand Government has announced important changes to the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Resident Visa. These changes are designed to help employers retain skilled workers, strengthen the workforce, and support long-term economic growth.From August 2026, two new residence pathways will be in...

🌏✨ Big News for Reuniting Families! ✨🌏

From 29 September 2025, parents of New Zealand citizens and residents can apply for the brand-new Parent Boost Visitor Visa.

This visa means:
💖 Up to 5 years in NZ with your children & grandchildren.
💖 Option to apply for a second 5 years — that’s 10 years together.
💖 Multiple entries, so you can come and go as needed.

✅ Sponsored/co-sponsored by your NZ-resident/citizen child/ren and/or their partner.
✅ Must hold valid health insurance during your stay.
✅ Meet health, character & financial requirements.

⚠️ Important: This visa is for extended visits only – it’s not a residence pathway.

👉 Applications open soon, so now’s the time to prepare your documents, check financial requirements, and plan ahead.

At Trusthaven Immigration Services, we can guide you through the process step by step, making it easier for families to reunite without the stress. 💼✨

📩 Message us today to find out if your family is eligible and how to get started.

Parent Boost Visitor Visa Opens on 29 September 2025

New Occupations Recognised under NOL for AEWV

👷‍♀️👨‍🌾 More jobs now recognised for work visas!

INZ is transitioning from ANZSCO to the National Occupation List (NOL). From 3 November 2025, around 90 new higher-skilled roles will be eligible for the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV).

✅ Better alignment with NZ’s updated job classification
✅ More opportunities for skilled workers
✅ Employers get access to a wider talent pool

🚨 Temporary pathway: A Specific Purpose Work Visa (SPWV) is available from 8 Sept – 2 Nov 2025 for some current visa holders in 30 new NOL roles (e.g., Horticulture Supervisor, CNC Operator, Poultry Farm Supervisor, Solar Installer).

📌 Great news for employers and workers — new opportunities are opening up!

INZ Recognizes New NOL Occupations for AEWV Pathways from November 2025 Immigration New Zealand (INZ) is introducing updates to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) program following the July 2025 update to the National Occupation List (NOL). These changes ensure that workers in newly recognized higher-skilled roles can continue to access AEWV pathways while INZ tra...

Police Clearance Certificates – Indian Applicants

🇮🇳 Attention Indian visa applicants!

From 1 December 2025, Immigration NZ will only accept Police Clearance Certificates (PCCs) issued by the Regional Passport Office of India’s Ministry of External Affairs.

❌ PCCs from local police stations or district offices will no longer be accepted.
✅ The change ensures certificates are consistent and easier to verify.

📌 If you are an Indian national living in India, apply through the Regional Passport Office to avoid delays with your visa.

Plan ahead — getting a PCC can take time!

https://www.trusthavenimmigration.com/post/inz-updates-police-clearance-requirements-for-indian-visa-applicants-from-december-2025

INZ Updates Police Clearance Requirements for Indian Visa Applicants from December 2025 Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has announced an important change to the police clearance certificate (PCC) requirements for Indian nationals residing in India. From 1 December 2025, only police clearance certificates issued by the Regional Passport Office of the Indian Ministry of External Affairs wi...

Job Check Redesign – AEWV

📝 Changes to the Job Check process are coming!

From 29 September 2025, Immigration NZ is rolling out a new online Job Check form for the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV).

Key improvements:
✅ Clearer guidance for employers
✅ Built-in checks to reduce errors
✅ Faster, smoother processing

👉 Employers will need to provide new information upfront (e.g., business size, why the role is needed).

⚠️ Draft applications in the current system must be submitted before 8:00am, 28 September 2025 — or they’ll be lost.

📌 Employers, prepare now to avoid delays!

INZ Redesigns Job Check Process for AEWV to Improve Efficiency Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has announced significant updates to the Job Check stage of the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) scheme, with changes coming into effect from Monday, 29 September 2025. The redesign aims to make the process clearer, more efficient, and user-friendly for employers, i...

Business Investor Visa replaces the Entrepreneur Work Visa

💼 Big news for investors in New Zealand!

The Entrepreneur Work Visa has closed, and from November 2025, the new Business Investor Visa will open.
✅ Invest $1m for a 3-year pathway to residence
✅ Invest $2m for a 12-month fast-track to residence
✅ Bring your partner & children
✅ Pathway to the Business Investor Resident Visa

⚠️ Some businesses (e.g., fast food, franchises, drop-shipping) are not eligible.

📌 Want to know if this new visa is right for you? Get in touch with us today.

New Business Investor Visa Replaces Entrepreneur Work Visa for investors The New Zealand Government has announced a major update to its business immigration settings, closing the long-standing Entrepreneur Work Visa and introducing the new Business Investor Visa. This change aims to attract experienced investors who can actively contribute to New Zealand’s economy by r...