New Zealand Adopts National Occupation List (NOL) for Work Visa Applications

Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has confirmed a major update for work visa applicants and employers. The new National Occupation List (NOL) officially replaces the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO) as the reference system for job-related visa applications.

What is the National Occupation List (NOL)

The National Occupation List (NOL) organises jobs that share similar tasks and responsibilities into specific categories known as occupations. Each occupation has a skill level ranging from 1 to 5. Level 1 is the highest skill level, while Level 5 is the lowest.

When the Change Starts

You’ll need to use an NOL occupation code if your job is listed and you’re applying for:

• A Specific Purpose Work Visa (SPWV) on or before November 2, 2025
• An Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) on or after November 3, 2025
• A Job Check for an AEWV on or after November 3, 2025

Until the full switch happens, some visa types, like the Skilled Migrant Category, will still use ANZSCO codes.

How the National Occupation List (NOL) Works

The National Occupation List (NOL) divides jobs into groups based on similar tasks and responsibilities. Each job position in the list is assigned a skill level ranging from 1 to 5, with level 1 indicating the most proficient.

To find the correct occupation code, INZ suggests the Aria tool, which is available on the Statistics New Zealand website. This tool allows companies and visa applicants to confirm their eligibility, skill level, and qualification requirements.

Why the NOL Matters

This change is part of New Zealand’s move to modernise its immigration system. The NOL aims to make visa processing faster, simpler, and more consistent with the country’s skill needs.

It also helps align New Zealand’s immigration framework with recent reforms in Australia, showing a shared regional shift toward a skills-based approach to managing labour demand.

Temporary Visa Option for 2025

To make the switch easier, INZ has introduced a temporary Specific Purpose Work Visa (SPWV) that applies from September 8 to November 2, 2025.

This short-term option is for workers who:

• Currently holds an AEWV
• They are reaching the end of their maximum stay by November 30, 2025
• Work in one of around 30 new occupations now listed on the NOL

Eligible workers can extend their stay in New Zealand for up to two more years under this pathway.

Final Thoughts

This move is part of New Zealand’s bigger goal of improving its immigration system and better aligning visa requirements with labour market demands. Australia is also updating its own occupational classification, indicating a regional trend towards skills-based immigration.

INZ says the NOL will be updated regularly as new occupations are recognised, ensuring that the system remains relevant to changing job trends.