From 9 March 2026, Immigration New Zealand will add 47 new occupations at skill levels 1–3 to the National Occupation List (NOL) for the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV).
This update also introduces higher wage thresholds and revised partner income requirements, affecting eligibility and residence pathways for migrant workers.
About the National Occupation List (NOL)
The NOL replaces the previous Australia New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO) and aims to reflect New Zealand’s actual labour market. While most current applications still use ANZSCO, the transition to NOL is accelerating.
Newly Recognised Skilled Occupations
The 47 occupations now officially listed at skill levels 1–3 include:
- Culinary & Hospitality: Head Chef, Sous Chef, Pastry Chef, Chef de Partie, Commis Chef, Restaurant Manager, Café Manager, Hotel Service Manager, Accommodation Manager, Event Manager, Conference Organiser
- Construction & Engineering: Construction Project Manager, Civil/Mechanical/Electrical Engineering Technicians
- IT & Digital: ICT Support Engineer, Software Tester, Web Developer, Multimedia Specialist, Network Administrator, Database Administrator, Systems Analyst, Marketing & Digital Marketing Specialists, Sales Representative
- Logistics & Procurement: Procurement Manager, Supply & Distribution Manager, Logistics Coordinator
- Healthcare & Education: Health Services Manager, Aged Care Manager, Registered/Enrolled Nurse, Physiotherapist, Occupational Therapist, Early Childhood, Primary, and Secondary School Teachers
- Skilled Trades: Automotive Electrician, Diesel Motor Mechanic, Heavy Vehicle Mechanic, Plumber, Carpenter, Electrician, Fitter & Turner, CNC Machinist, Agricultural Technician, Horticulture Supervisor
Role Downgrades
Three occupations are downgraded to skill level 4: Pet Groomer, Nanny, and Kennel Hand. These roles now require higher skill and English language standards, with limits on stay duration and dependent support for new applications. Existing AEWV holders are unaffected.
Wage Thresholds & Partner Income
- Immigration median wage rises to NZD $35.00/hr
- Partner support thresholds:
- Skill level 1–3: NZD $28.00/hr
- Skill level 4–5: NZD $52.50/hr
- Green List: NZD $35.00/hr
These adjustments impact Green List pay requirements, exemptions from advertising, and residence pathways under the Skilled Migrant Category.
Employer Obligations
Employers must continue to:
- Advertise the role for at least 14 days
- Demonstrate genuine efforts to hire a New Zealander
- Submit a Job Check before offering the position to a migrant worker
Implications for Migrant Workers
The update opens new pathways for workers currently in skill level 4–5 roles closely related to the newly listed 1–3 occupations. Eligible workers may apply for a higher skill level AEWV, extend their stay, or move toward residence, provided they meet qualification and Job Check requirements.
Migrant workers should:
- Verify their occupation under the NOL
- Review updated wage and partner income thresholds
- Confirm partner sponsorship eligibility
- Consult with employers early to understand implications
These refinements demonstrate New Zealand’s effort to better align the AEWV system with labour shortages while tightening conditions for lower-skilled roles.
