Key Points
- New Zealand will replace the Australian and New Zealand Classification of Occupations list with separate systems that will be based on the visa applicant’s country
Overview
New Zealand’s government announced that the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO), used by Immigration New Zealand for visa applications, will be replaced by separate systems for each country. Statistics New Zealand will introduce a new classification system called the National Occupation List (NOL). The first version will go live on 20 November 2024.
This change follows a consultation highlighting strong support for separate systems due to significant labor market shifts in both countries. Immigration New Zealand will continue using ANZSCO until the transition is complete. The government will publish an official date for the switch-over date in 2025.
ANZSCO currently grades occupations by skill level, ranging from 1 (most skilled) to 5 (less skilled).
Looking Ahead
Continue to check New Zealand’s website and Envoy Global’s website for the latest updates and information.
Content in this publication is for informational purposes only and not intended as legal advice, nor should it be relied on as such. For additional information on the issues discussed, consult an attorney at Corporate Immigration Partners, P.C., or another qualified professional of your choosing. On non-U.S. immigration issues, consult your Envoy representative, or another qualified representative of your choosing.
