Starting 3 November 2025, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) will officially recognize 87 occupations in the National Occupation List (NOL) for the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) program.
This update creates major opportunities for international workers.
This article explains the reasons behind the change, its real-world impacts, and how you can prepare to take advantage of the growing New Zealand labour market.
1. Overview of the Change and What the NOL Means
The NOL (National Occupation List) is New Zealand’s new occupational classification system, which replaced the old ANZSCO framework in November 2024 and will be further updated on 1 July 2025.
According to INZ, 87 occupations at skill levels 1 to 3 will be recognized under AEWV starting from 3 November 2025.
For those seeking New Zealand employment opportunities, this means a broader range of industries will open up.
Instead of focusing only on highly specialized roles, medium-skilled workers will also have more chances to qualify for AEWV.
2. Impacts on Workers and Job Opportunities in New Zealand
By recognizing more skill level 1–3 occupations, international workers can more easily apply for jobs that are sponsored by accredited employers.
Applicants who have at least 3 years of directly related work experience or a recognized qualification may qualify for an AEWV.
AEWV visa holders whose occupations appear in the NOL can:
- Stay longer in New Zealand
- Bring their family members if they meet the eligibility criteria
Those currently working in skill level 4 or 5 positions may transition to one of these 87 newly recognized occupations, provided they meet one of the following:
- At least 3 years of directly relevant work experience, or
- A recognized qualification.
If these criteria are met, they may apply for another AEWV to extend their stay in New Zealand.
For Vietnamese workers, this is a clear signal that the New Zealand employment program now offers more occupational options, enabling you to find jobs that better match your skills and experience.
You can search the Aria tool using the occupation or code on this page.
>>>>> Find your job’s skill level
3. Key Conditions to Seize the Opportunity
To make the most of this AEWV–NOL update, you should note:
- Obtain a job offer from a New Zealand Accredited Employer.
- Your occupation must fall within NOL skill levels 1–3, or be eligible for transition from level 4–5.
- Hold a recognized qualification or have at least 3 years of relevant work experience.
- Ensure your employment agreement, job description, and salary align with NOL/ANZSCO criteria and AEWV wage thresholds.
- Coordinate your documents with your New Zealand employer, as they must advertise the role locally before offering it to overseas workers.
4. How to Prepare for the New Zealand Employment Pathway
Here’s how to prepare for the upcoming New Zealand job opportunities under the new framework:
- Check if your occupation appears in the updated NOL list, including the occupation code and job description.
- Strengthen your work experience or upgrade your qualification to meet AEWV eligibility (3 years or higher).
- Improve your English skills to perform effectively in an international work environment.
- Connect with trusted recruitment agencies or licensed NZ partners, such as Koroo, which supports Vietnamese workers in legal and transparent employment pathways.
- Prepare your financial and visa documents, as the AEWV process requires proper budgeting and document stability.
5. Why Now Is the Best Time to Target New Zealand Employment
- Labour demand in New Zealand is increasing, especially in medium-skill sectors.
- Recognizing 87 new NOL occupations reduces competition pressure from highly specialized candidates.
- Successfully working legally in New Zealand can enhance your career profile for future residence or long-term visas.
- For Vietnamese workers, choosing legitimate and transparent employment pathways—such as through Koroo—is a more sustainable option than temporary or unclear work arrangements.
Conclusion
New Zealand employment is entering an exciting phase with the expansion of AEWV-eligible occupations — especially from 3 November 2025, when 87 NOL occupations will be officially recognized.
This marks a major opportunity for international workers, including Vietnamese, to secure stable and long-term jobs if you prepare well and follow the right process.
New Zealand job search service for Vietnamese people is the bridge to help you quickly access reputable and suitable career opportunities.
With a team of experts who understand the New Zealand labor market, we support from career consulting, preparing documents to accompanying during the interview process.
All processes are transparent, saving time and costs for workers.
This is not only a job solution but also opens up sustainable settlement opportunities for the future.
>>>>> Contact Koroo now for free consultation and start your career journey in New Zealand today! <<<<<
