As of March 9, 2026, Immigration New Zealand has officially expanded the National Occupation List (NOL), adding 47 new occupations at skill levels 1 to 3. This transition from the old ANZSCO system is one of the most significant structural shifts for the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) framework this year.
You can check your occupation's skill level on the NOL directly on the INZ website. If you are a migrant worker, employer, or adviser, this change deserves your full attention.
What is the National Occupation List?
The NOL is Immigration New Zealand's bespoke classification system designed to better reflect the modern New Zealand labour market. It replaces the outdated Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO) for immigration purposes.
Roles are classified into five skill levels, with Levels 1–3 carrying significantly more immigration benefits than Levels 4 and 5.
What is Changing?
For many migrants currently in "Level 4" roles, this update is a game-changer. If your role has been reclassified into Level 1–3, you may now be eligible for:
- A 5-year maximum stay on your AEWV (up from 3 years for Level 4).
- Partner support rights, allowing your spouse or partner to obtain an open work visa.
- Clearer pathways to the new Skilled Residence categories opening later this year under the August 2026 SMC reforms.
These three benefits are substantial and can transform a migrant's medium-term plans in New Zealand.
Key Occupations Added (Skill Levels 1–3)
Hospitality
Specialised roles that were previously lumped into generic "Cook" or "Food Services" categories now have dedicated, clearer classifications:
- Chef de Partie — Level 3
- Sous Chef — Level 2
- Pastry Chef (Pâtissier) — Level 3
This is a major win for the hospitality sector, which has struggled with recruitment and retention under the old system.
Technical & Environmental Roles
- Biomedical Technicians — Level 3
- Environmental Technicians — Level 3
- Energy Assessors / Auditors — Level 3
These additions reflect New Zealand's growing focus on sustainability and healthcare infrastructure.
Trades & Logistics
- Solar Panel Installers — Level 3
- Agricultural Equipment Technicians — Level 3
- Production Supervisors (various manufacturing sectors) — Level 3
The inclusion of solar installers in particular signals INZ's alignment with the government's renewable energy targets.
The "Watch-Out" List
While many roles moved up in skill level, three occupations have moved in the opposite direction, from Level 3 to Level 4:
| Occupation | Previous Level | New Level from March 9 |
|---|---|---|
| Pet Groomer | 3 | 4 |
| Nanny / Family Day Carer | 3 | 4 |
| Kennel Hand | 3 | 4 |
If you are hiring for these roles after March 8, you will face:
- Stricter advertising requirements (demonstrating the market test was met).
- Shorter maximum visa durations (typically 2–3 years rather than 5).
- No automatic partner work rights unless the employer's income threshold is met.
Savings Provisions: What If You Are Already Here?
If you currently hold a visa in one of the roles that has moved to Level 4, you are protected under "savings provisions". This means:
- Your current visa conditions remain unchanged until it expires.
- You are not required to immediately downgrade your rights.
- However, when you come to renew or vary your visa, the new Level 4 classification will apply.
Expert Tip: If you hold a current visa in these roles, contact us now to plan your transition strategy before your current visa expires. Options may include reclassifying your role title, pursuing a residence pathway while you still have Level 3 status, or exploring a different NOL occupation.
What Employers Need to Do
- Review all current AEWV job checks to confirm whether the NOL code has changed for any of your roles.
- Update job descriptions where a role has moved up to Level 1–3 — this unlocks benefits for your employees and improves retention.
- Seek advice before lodging new Job Checks for roles in the affected occupations, particularly in hospitality and personal services.
Looking Ahead
The NOL expansion is not a one-off event. INZ has signalled that the list will be reviewed annually, with the next review expected in early 2027. For migrants and employers, this means staying close to policy changes is now a year-round activity, not just a renewal-time concern.