Some key changes to New Zealand immigration law will come into effect on 9 March 2026.
Here’s a simplified breakdown so you can see what changes might mean for you:
1. Expansion of recognised occupations from the National Occupation List (NOL)
- NOL is a job classification system. New Zealand is taking an incremental approach at recognising NOL. At the moment it is used alongside the current ANZSCO classification system.
- 47 new occupations from NOL will be recognised. This indicates a further step to recognise modern jobs in New Zealand.
- These additions span a broad range of industries and skill levels, including senior technology and architecture roles, specialist health and care positions, hospitality leadership roles (such as senior chef positions), environmental and engineering technicians, primary sector and forestry roles, and a number of skilled operational and supervisory positions.
Practical tip: If you are making an AEWV job check application, check the NOL alongside ANZSCO to find the occupation code that most closely aligns with the role.
2. Reclassification of three occupations
What’s changed? Three occupations have been reclassified from skill level 3 to skill level 4.
Affected occupations:
- Pet Groomer
- Nanny
- Kennel Hand
Important transitional rule: If a Job Check for one of these roles is submitted and approved before 9 March 2026, it continues to be treated at the old skill level (with no retrospective reclassification).
3. Updated median wage
Updated median wage: The median wage is increased annually. On 9 March 2026, it will increase to NZ $35.00 per hour.
The median wage is relevant to:
- Pay requirements for roles on the Green List.
- Exemptions from advertising and minimum skill requirements – which are waived for roles paid at least 2× median wage.
- Lower skilled roles with a default three-year maximum stay period may be eligible for an increased five-year maximum stay period if paid 1.5x median wage.
- The income thresholds for supporting a partner or dependent children on certain visas.
Key takeaways for employers
| Topic | Key Employer Impact |
| New occupations added | 47 additional NOL roles recognised |
| Reclassified roles | Pet groomer, nanny, kennel hand now require Skill Level 4 compliance |
| Median wage rise | $35/hr from 9 Mar 2026 |
Need advice? The team at Copeland McAllister is happy to support you with any immigration matter. Give us a call on 03 211 0153 or email admin@cmalaw.co.nz.
Disclaimer: This update provides commentary on employment law, health and safety and immigration topics, it should not be used as a substitute for legal or professional advice for specific situations. Please seek legal advice from your lawyer for any questions specific to your workplace.