Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has announced updates to the National Occupation List (NOL) and the annual adjustment to the immigration median wage, both taking effect on March 9, 2026. These changes impact Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) applications, job checks, and several pay‑linked visa pathways.
The NOL, introduced in 2024, is New Zealand’s evolving job classification system replacing the Australia New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO). The NOL is reviewed annually to reflect current labor market needs, and Immigration New Zealand continues to integrate it gradually into visa processing.
Newly Recognized Occupations
Beginning March 9, 2026, New Zealand will recognize 47 additional skill level 1 to 3 occupations under the NOL for AEWV applications. This update expands eligibility for employers and applicants, including several redefined chef roles that now reflect clearer distinctions in skill, training, and seniority.
Employers may submit Job Check applications for these newly added occupations from the implementation date.
Requirements for Employers
Standard AEWV Job Check requirements continue to apply:
- Employers must advertise the role for a minimum of 14 days.
- Employers must make genuine attempts to recruit suitable New Zealanders before supporting a migrant worker.
Some current AEWV holders employed in directly related skill level 4 or 5 roles may benefit from the updated NOL. If their employer secures an approved Job Check for a relevant NOL skill level 1 to 3 occupation and the worker meets qualification requirements, they may be able to apply for a new AEWV and extend their maximum continuous stay.
Reclassified Occupations
Three existing occupations have been reclassified from skill level 3 to skill level 4:
- Pet groomer
- Nanny
- Kennel hand
Key implications:
- All new Job Check applications for these occupations must meet skill level 4 criteria.
- Applicants for these roles will be subject to additional AEWV requirements such as English language standards and mandatory engagement with the Ministry of Social Development as part of the Job Check process.
- Skill level 4 roles carry a shorter maximum continuous stay and may limit eligibility to support a partner or dependent.
These changes do not affect current AEWV holders in these roles. Job Check applications submitted on or before March 8, 2026 will be assessed under the previously applicable skill level.
Median Wage Update
Also effective March 9, 2026, the immigration median wage will increase to NZD $35.00 per hour, based on June 2025 labor market data. While the general AEWV median wage requirement was removed in 2025, several immigration settings remain linked to the median wage and will update automatically, including:
- Green List minimum pay requirements
- Advertising exemptions and minimum skills thresholds for roles paid at least twice the median wage
- Five‑year maximum stay rules for some lower‑skilled roles paid at least 1.5 times the median wage
- Income thresholds for supporting partners and dependent children
Updated partner support income thresholds include:
- Skill level 1–3: increasing from $26.85 to $28.00 per hour
- Skill level 4–5: increasing from $50.34 to $52.50 per hour
- Green List: increasing from $33.56 to $35.00 per hour
Skilled Residence Pathways
Wage thresholds for the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC), Green List pathways, and the Transport Work to Residence pathway will also rise. Some occupations may require workers to move to higher pay steps — e.g., teachers must now meet Step 5 of the pay scale, up from Step 4.
Updates to income requirements for the Parent Category and the Parent Boost Visitor Visa will be released later in 2026.
Erickson Insights & Analysis
Erickson Immigration Group will continue monitoring developments and sharing updates as more news is available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or if you have case-specific questions.