New Zealand Work Visas 2025: How the National Occupation List Impacts You

New Zealand is taking a bold step in redefining how it classifies occupations for immigration purposes. The country is phasing out the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO) and replacing it with its very own National Occupation List (NOL).

This significant shift affects foreign nationals aiming to work or settle in New Zealand under pathways such as the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) and the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC).

What is the National Occupation List (NOL)?

The National Occupation List (NOL) is a New Zealand-specific job classification system designed to better reflect the country’s unique labour market needs. Unlike ANZSCO, which was shared with Australia, the NOL is tailored solely for New Zealand and aims to:

• Better align with in-demand occupations
• Provide a more accurate skill level framework
• Support immigration decisions with localised job data

This change enables Immigration New Zealand (INZ) to process visa applications more efficiently and fairly.

Why Is NOL Replacing ANZSCO?

The key reason for this change is relevance and independence. While ANZSCO served both Australia and New Zealand, its outdated classifications didn’t always reflect New Zealand’s current job market. The NOL provides:

• More up-to-date information on job roles
• Country-specific classification, reducing mismatches
• Improved clarity for visa applicants and employers

In short, the move to NOL empowers New Zealand to take greater control over its skilled migration strategy.

Must Read: Fast-Track to NZ Residency: New Green List Jobs Announced for 2025

What’s Changing for Visa Applicants in 2025?

Although the full transition to the National Occupation List hasn’t been finalised, its impact is already being felt. Here’s what skilled migrants need to know:

1. NOL Will Change Job Skill Levels

ANZSCO ranked jobs from Skill Level 1 (highly skilled) to Level 5 (low skilled). The NOL may assign different skill levels to your occupation. That’s important because skill levels determine:

• Visa eligibility
• Visa duration
• English language test requirements
• Residency pathways

For example, under the NOL, some roles previously listed as Skill Level 4 may now be treated as Skill Level 3, opening doors to longer visas and easier residency pathways.

2. Some Changes Are Already in Effect

Even though INZ still uses ANZSCO codes (as of May 2025), they’re already applying NOL-aligned logic to certain jobs. These roles are currently treated as Skill Level 3 for AEWV purposes:

• Cooks
• Nannies
• Pet Groomers
• Kennel Hands
• Fitness Instructors
• Scaffolders
• Slaughterers

Some roles, like Aged or Disabled Carers and Mobile Plant Operators, may also qualify if they meet specific experience or qualification thresholds.

Why This Could Be Good News?

This classification shift brings major benefits for certain job roles, including:

• 3-year AEWV validity for Level 3 jobs
• No mandatory median wage (new rules from March 2025 now apply a “market rate + minimum wage” approach)
• Only 2 years’ experience needed for Skill Level 4/5 roles
• Possible exemption from English language tests

Your Action Plan for 2025: Stay Ahead of the NOL Transition

To navigate this evolving immigration landscape, international job seekers should follow these steps:

1. Find Your Job Code (Old + New)

Use the ANZSCO search tool on the INZ website to find your existing occupation code and skill level. Then, cross-check your job on the National Occupation List (NOL) via Stats NZ to see how it’s classified under the new system.

2. Check for Upgraded Skill Levels

Visit INZ’s official page on ANZSCO occupations recognised at a higher skill level to see if your job is already being treated as Skill Level 3.

3. Review Specific Visa Criteria

Each visa pathway (e.g., AEWV, SMC) may still refer to ANZSCO or adopt NOL criteria at different times. Always check the most up-to-date eligibility rules on the INZ site.

4. Consult a Licensed Immigration Adviser

Visa rules are evolving quickly. For tailored guidance, consult a licensed immigration adviser, especially if your job classification or visa pathway is unclear.

Adapt Now to Stay Ahead

New Zealand’s move to the National Occupation List (NOL) marks a significant shift in how the country welcomes skilled migrants. While the system is still in transition, early adopters who understand the new rules may benefit from faster approvals, longer visas, and easier residency options.

If you’re a skilled worker dreaming of a future in New Zealand, now’s the time to take action.