New Zealand has introduced major updates to its work visa system that could open new opportunities for international workers. Beginning March 9, 2026, Immigration New Zealand has added 47 skilled occupations to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) framework.
The newly recognized roles fall under Skill Levels 1 to 3 within the country’s updated National Occupation List (NOL), which replaces the previous job classification system used for immigration assessments.
What the National Occupation List Means
The National Occupation List is New Zealand’s updated system for categorizing occupations used in immigration programs.
It replaces the older Australia and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO) framework and is designed to better reflect the current needs of the New Zealand labour market.
The NOL was first announced in 2024 and is being gradually implemented across immigration programs.
47 Skilled Jobs Added to the AEWV List
From March 2026, employers can submit Job Check applications for 47 occupations newly classified under skill levels 1–3.
These include positions across multiple sectors such as construction, healthcare, technology, hospitality, engineering, and education.
Examples of Newly Added Occupations
- Electrician
- Carpenter
- Plumber
- Heavy motor mechanic
- Diesel vehicle mechanic
- Automotive electrician
- Registered nurse
- Physiotherapist
- Primary school teacher
- Secondary school teacher
- Web developer
- Software tester
- Systems analyst
- Database administrator
- Network administrator
- Digital marketing specialist
- Construction project supervisor
- Café manager
- Restaurant supervisor
- Head chef
- Sous chef
- Pastry chef
The list also includes roles in logistics, engineering, hospitality management, and healthcare supervision.
Why Skill Level Classification Matters
Skill levels play an important role in determining several visa conditions.
These classifications affect:
- Visa eligibility requirements
- Maximum stay duration
- Eligibility for residence pathways
- Spouse sponsorship options
Workers in higher skill levels generally receive more favorable immigration options.
Requirements for Employers
Despite the updated job classifications, employers must still follow existing labour market rules before hiring migrant workers.
Employers must:
- Advertise the position for at least two weeks
- Make genuine efforts to recruit New Zealand citizens
- Confirm that no suitable local candidates are available
Only after these steps can an employer hire a migrant worker through the AEWV program.
Changes to Skill Levels for Some Occupations
Not all occupations received upgrades.
Three roles were reclassified from skill level 3 to skill level 4:
- Nanny
- Pet groomer
- Kennel hand
New applications for these positions must now meet stricter immigration conditions, including higher English requirements and shorter visa durations.
Increase in Immigration Median Income
From March 9, 2026, New Zealand’s immigration median wage has increased to NZD $35 per hour, based on updated wage data.
This figure affects several immigration policies, including:
- Green List residency pathways
- Income requirements for family sponsorship
- Eligibility thresholds for certain visa categories
Some immigration settings also require salaries of up to 1.5 to 2 times the median wage depending on the visa pathway.
Updated Spouse Sponsorship Income Thresholds
The income thresholds for sponsoring partners have also been increased.
From March 2026:
- Skill Level 1–3 spouse sponsorship: NZD $28 per hour
- Skill Level 4–5 spouse sponsorship: NZD $52.50 per hour
- Green List spouse sponsorship: NZD $35 per hour
These thresholds determine whether visa holders can sponsor partners or dependent children.
What This Means for Migrant Workers
The addition of 47 skilled occupations signals New Zealand’s effort to address labour shortages while refining its immigration system.
For migrant workers, the new classifications may open additional pathways to employment and possibly permanent residence.
However, stricter wage thresholds and reclassification of some roles also show the government’s intent to maintain stronger standards for lower-skilled jobs.
Conclusion
The expansion of the Accredited Employer Work Visa list in March 2026 represents an important shift in New Zealand’s immigration policy.
With more skilled occupations now recognized at higher skill levels, qualified workers may find improved opportunities to live and work in the country.
Prospective applicants should review the updated National Occupation List and wage thresholds carefully before applying for the AEWV program.