New Zealand Updates Skilled Occupation List and Wage Thresholds

New Zealand has adjusted its immigration settings to better align with its current labor market needs. Effective March 9, 2026, the National Occupation List (NOL) now includes 47 additional roles for the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV). These additions span various sectors, from Chief Sustainability Officers and VR/AR Specialists to Urban Foresters and Sous Chefs.

Alongside these new roles, the government raised the immigration median wage to NZD $35 per hour. This change affects several visa updates and residence pathways. Higher wage thresholds are now in place for the Green List and the Skilled Migrant Category, where requirements for some roles have climbed to $52.50 or even $70 per hour depending on the specific exemption or stay duration.

Who is affected

These changes primarily impact expats and skilled migrants seeking employer-sponsored work visas. While digital nomads and tourists are generally unaffected, those looking to transition into long-term residency or bring family members will face higher financial hurdles. For example, supporting a partner's visa now requires a wage between $28 and $52.50 per hour based on the skill level of the primary applicant's role.

Low-skilled roles also face tighter scrutiny. Three specific occupations—Pet Groomer, Nanny, and Kennel Hand—were reclassified to a lower skill level. This shift triggers stricter English language standards and requires employers to engage with the Ministry of Social Development before hiring from abroad.

What you need to do

If you are currently on an AEWV, these wage hikes won't affect your existing visa. However, you must meet the new $35 per hour rate for any new applications or when applying for residency. Employers can now submit Job Checks for the 47 newly added occupations immediately.

To stay compliant, use the official median wage calculator to convert your salary into hourly rates. If you are targeting the Skilled Migrant Category, keep an eye on August 2026, when a new tech and trades pathway will be introduced for those with level 4 qualifications and at least four years of experience.

Read our full New Zealand guide for the complete picture.