New Zealand Rolls Out New National Occupation List for Foreign Workers
Immigration New Zealand has announced a major change for employers and work-visa applicants. The new National Occupation List (NOL) will now replace the old ANZSCO system for job-related visa processing.
What the NOL Does
The NOL groups jobs based on similar tasks and responsibilities and assigns each one a skill level from 1 to 5. Level 1 is the highest, while Level 5 is the lowest. This new structure is designed to speed up applications and bring immigration rules in line with New Zealand’s labour market.
When the New System Applies
Applicants and employers must use an NOL occupation code for:
- Specific Purpose Work Visa (SPWV) applications submitted on or before November 2, 2025
- Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) applications submitted on or after November 3, 2025
- Job Checks for the AEWV submitted on or after November 3, 2025
Some visas, including the Skilled Migrant Category, will continue using ANZSCO for now until the full transition is complete.
How to Find Your NOL Code
INZ advises using the Aria tool on the Statistics New Zealand website. It helps you confirm the correct occupation code, skill level, and qualification requirements for your job.
Why This Update Matters
The NOL is part of New Zealand’s effort to modernize its immigration system. Its goals include:
- Smoother and faster visa processing
- More consistent decision-making
- Better alignment with current labour market needs
Australia has also made similar changes, showing a wider regional shift toward skills-based immigration.
Temporary SPWV Option for 2025
To help workers adjust to the new system, INZ has introduced a temporary Specific Purpose Work Visa valid from September 8 to November 2, 2025. This option is for workers who:
- Already hold an AEWV
- Will reach their maximum stay by November 30, 2025
- Work in one of the roughly 30 occupations now listed under the new NOL
Those who qualify can extend their stay in New Zealand by up to two years.
The introduction of the NOL marks an important step toward a more skills-focused and streamlined immigration framework. With both New Zealand and Australia moving in the same direction, the region is clearly shifting toward a modern, demand-driven approach to work visas.
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