Immigration New Zealand (INZ) is updating how 91 new occupations at skill levels 1 to 3 are assessed under the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) program from November 3, 2025, to ensure higher skilled occupations in the National Occupation List (NOL) are recognized.
The NOL is New Zealand’s new job classification system, replacing the Australia New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO) framework. It became the official standard in November 2024 and was updated again on July 1, 2025. Unlike ANZSCO, the NOL reflects today’s labor market and is updated annually.
The immigration system is currently based on ANZSCO. Because transitioning to the NOL is a significant change, INZ is introducing it in stages and will keep employers, migrants, and advisers informed as it is gradually implemented.
Changes on November 3, 2025
From this date, employers can submit a job check for any of these newly recognized roles.
An AEWV holder in a skill level 1 to 3 role can stay in New Zealand longer and may be able to bring family. Some AEWV holders currently working in directly relevant skill level 4 or 5 roles may be able to move into one of these 91 new roles.
They will need to have either:
- at least three years’ directly relevant work experience, or
- a recognised qualification.
If they meet these criteria, they may be able to apply for a further AEWV to extend how long they can stay in New Zealand.
These occupations will appear alongside existing ANZSCO codes in the enhanced Immigration Online system.
What employers need to know
An employer must first advertise the role and genuinely try to appoint a suitable New Zealander. Where that is not possible, an employer must be accredited and apply for a job check to hire a migrant worker in one of these roles.
Employers need to submit a new job check application when recruiting a migrant worker for one of the new NOL occupations. Their job description and remuneration must clearly match the responsibilities and skill level of the role they choose.
All standard AEWV settings for skill levels 1 to 3 still apply — eligible migrant workers can stay up to five years, must meet wage thresholds and may be able to support family visas.
Employers should check their accreditation is current and ensure the job description clearly aligns with the requirements of the relevant NOL or ANZSCO occupation.
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.