As licensed immigration advisers, we’re alerting employers and migrants to significant policy changes affecting New Zealand’s work visa landscape from March 2026. New Zealand’s immigration landscape is set for a significant update on 9 March 2026. Key changes to the National Occupation List (NOL) and a new immigration median wage will impact Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) applications and pathways to residence. It is crucial to understand these shifts and act decisively.
Key Change 1: The National Occupation List (NOL) Matures
New Zealand is continuing its move from the old ANZSCO framework to the more responsive National Occupation List. On 9 March 2026, this transition accelerates with major expansions and reclassifications.
Expanded Opportunities: 47 New Roles in Skill Levels 1-3
Roles classified in NOL Skill Levels 1-3 benefit from longer visa durations and simpler pathways for family support. The expansion includes:
- Skill Level 1: Leadership roles like Chief Sustainability Officer.
- Skill Level 2: Technical roles such as Biomedical Technicians.
- Skill Level 3: Trade roles including Electric Vehicle Mechanics and Wind Turbine Technicians.
Notably, the generic “Chef” role is now split for clarity:
- Head Chef / Executive Chef (Skill Level 1)
- Sous Chef / Chef de Partie (Skill Level 2)
- Demi Chef de Partie (Skill Level 3)
Important Reclassifications: New Rules for Three Occupations
Three occupations will move from Skill Level 3 down to Skill Level 4, subjecting them to stricter requirements:
- Pet Groomer
- Nanny
- Kennel Hand
For applications submitted from 9 March 2026, these roles will require 21-day advertising, MSD engagement, English language proficiency from the migrant, and will face shorter visa durations with restricted family support rights.
Key Change 2: Immigration Median Wage Increases to $35.00
The immigration median wage will rise to $35.00 per hour. This figure is the basis for several critical visa thresholds.
| Setting Category | Old Rate (Approx.) | New Rate (from 9 Mar 2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Immigration Median Wage | $33.56 | $35.00 |
| Green List / Skilled Residence | $33.56 | $35.00 |
| High Income (2x Median) | $67.12 | $70.00 |
| 5-Year Stay Rule (1.5x Median) | $50.34 | $52.50 |
| Partner Support (Level 4–5) | $50.34 | $52.50 |
The Critical Deadline: Lodgement Date is Key
Any Job Check or AEWV application submitted on or before 8 March 2026 will be assessed under the current rules. Applications lodged from 9 March 2026 onwards must meet the new NOL skill levels and wage thresholds.
Also read: Why Job Checks Are Declined in NZ & How to Avoid Rejection
How Immigration Chambers Can Help?
Navigating these detailed policy changes requires expert guidance. The complexities of the NOL, wage thresholds, and strict lodgement deadlines can put your application at risk. Immigration Chambers specialises in providing strategic advice to ensure your Job Check and AEWV applications are compliant, timely, and positioned for success. We can assess your circumstances against the new rules and help you secure the best possible outcome.
Get in touch with our Licensed Immigration Lawyers New Zealand now for a strategic review of your visa pathway before the March 2026 deadline.
FAQs
1. What is changing in New Zealand’s immigration policy in March 2026?
The government will implement the National Occupation List (NOL) and raise the immigration median wage to $35/hour, altering AEWV and residence criteria.
2. What is the new median wage for NZ immigration in 2026?
As of 9 March 2026, the new immigration median wage will be NZD $35.00 per hour. This affects eligibility for many residence pathways and work visa conditions.
3. When do the new NZ immigration rules for AEWV start?
The new rules, including the $35.00 median wage and updated National Occupation List, take effect for any application submitted on or after 9 March 2026.
4. How does the NOL affect Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) applications?
AEWV roles will now be classified under the new NOL, impacting visa duration, wage thresholds, and eligible occupations.
5. Will my job as a Nanny be affected by the 2026 changes?
Yes. From 9 March 2026, the Nanny occupation will be reclassified to Skill Level 4. This means stricter requirements, including longer advertising periods for employers, English language tests for migrants, and shorter visa stays.
6. Which jobs are being reclassified under the 2026 update?
Pet Groomer, Nanny, and Kennel Hand move to Skill Level 4, requiring stricter compliance for employers and migrants.
7. What happens if I apply for my visa before 9 March 2026?
If your Job Check or AEWV application is submitted on or before 8 March 2026, it will be assessed under the old rules (e.g., the previous median wage and occupation skill levels).
8. How can employers and migrants prepare for these changes?
Submit Job Checks early, review employment contracts, and ensure salaries meet the $35/hour median wage to stay eligible.