As leading immigration specialists, we ensure employers and skilled migrants understand the National Occupation List (NOL) changes impacting Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) eligibility from 3 November 2025. This comprehensive guide details 87 newly recognised skilled occupations, updated visa pathways, employer requirements, and benefits for workers and their families.
What is the National Occupation List (NOL)?
Launched in November 2024 and updated again on 1 July 2025, the NOL replaces the outdated ANZSCO system by aligning job classification with New Zealand’s modern labour market needs.
It is updated annually to reflect real-time skills demand.
Major Update: 87 Newly Recognised NOL Roles for AEWV
From 3 November 2025, employers can submit job checks for 87 new Skill Level 1–3 occupations, unlocking expanded hiring options in:
- Construction & infrastructure
- Healthcare & aged care
- Engineering & technical roles
- ICT & digital services
- Transport & logistics
- Primary industries & trade roles
- Hospitality & tourism
- Business and administrative services
These roles will display alongside existing ANZSCO occupation codes in the upgraded Immigration Online system.
Migrants currently in Skill Levels 4 or 5 may upgrade their pathway by securing one of these newly recognised roles, if qualified.
Check whether your occupation is included – full list here.
Benefits for Skilled Migrant Workers
Professionals in the newly recognised occupations gain:
- Up to 5-year AEWV validity
- Higher pathways for residence eligibility
- Ability to support partner/children visas
- Potential transition from lower-skilled ANZSCO roles
Eligibility to Transition from Skill Level 4 or 5
To apply for one of the 87 new NOL occupations, AEWV holders must hold:
Minimum 3 years’ directly relevant experience
OR
A recognised qualification (aligned to role requirements)
What Employers Must Do
To hire a migrant under the new NOL roles, employers must:
- Hold Active Accreditation
- Advertise the Role First & genuinely consider New Zealanders
- Submit a new job check that:
- Aligns responsibilities with the correct NOL skill level
- Meets wage thresholds
- Demonstrates compliance with employment laws
Employers must clearly match:
- Job title
- Position responsibilities
- Skills and experience requirements
- Remuneration and work conditions
Any mismatch may result in job check refusal.
Check this out: How to Apply for Employer Accreditation NZ Under the AEWV Scheme
Why This Change Matters
The staged introduction of the NOL ensures:
- Greater clarity in defining skilled work
- More accurate recognition of modern job types
- Improved alignment between employers’ labour needs and immigration policy
This is a critical update for:
- Employers planning long-term workforce strategies
- Skilled migrants pursuing residence pathways
Frequently Asked Questions: AEWV NOL Update 2025
1. What are the 87 new NOL occupations for the AEWV?
Immigration New Zealand will recognise 87 additional Skill Level 1–3 occupations under the National Occupation List (NOL) from 3 November 2025. These roles provide stronger pathways for migrants to stay longer, support family visas, and improve future residence eligibility.
2. Who can apply for these newly recognised AEWV roles?
Anyone with a full-time job offer in one of the recognised Skill Level 1–3 NOL roles, where the position meets wage thresholds and passes a job check. Applicants must show that their qualifications or work experience align with the role.
3. Can current AEWV holders transition into a new NOL occupation?
Yes, AEWV holders currently in ANZSCO Skill Levels 4–5 may transition if they have:
- 3+ years’ directly relevant work experience, or
- A recognised qualification
This may allow workers to extend their stay and access higher-skilled visa benefits.
4. How long can skilled workers remain in New Zealand under the new roles?
Skilled migrants working in Skill Levels 1–3 may stay for up to 5 years and may also be eligible to support partner and dependent child visas during their employment.
5. Will the new NOL changes improve skilled residence pathways?
Yes. Because Skill Levels 1–3 represent higher-skilled occupations, workers may have stronger residence prospects, including under the Skilled Migrant Category if health, character, English and points criteria are met.
6. Does the AEWV wage threshold still apply to these new roles?
Yes. All standard AEWV wage, job check and compliance criteria remain unchanged when recruiting for newly recognised NOL occupations.
7. Will ANZSCO still be used after the NOL transition begins?
Yes, during staging, ANZSCO and NOL codes will appear together in Immigration Online until full migration to the NOL system is completed.
8. Can migrants already working in NZ benefit?
Yes, AEWV holders in relevant skill level 4–5 roles may become eligible for longer stay + family support by transitioning into a newly recognised skill level 1–3 occupation.
9. Does this guarantee residence?
Not automatically, but being in a higher-skilled NOL role significantly improves future residence prospects.
How can Immigration Chambers assist with these AEWV changes?
Immigration Chambers support both: Employers, ensuring job checks pass first time and Skilled workers, identifying the right occupation pathway for long-term stay
Our licensed experts ensure:
- Full compliance with NOL occupation selection
- Strategic pathway planning for residence
- Correct documentation and evidence to avoid delays
Secure Your Future in New Zealand
These NOL changes create powerful new migration and hiring opportunities from 3rd November 2025.
Whether you are an employer seeking hard-to-find talent or a skilled professional planning a secure future in New Zealand, we can guide every step of the way.Contact our Immigration Lawyer in Auckland today for personalised AEWV NOL guidance.