New Zealand Introduces National Occupation List (NOL) to Replace ANZSCO
Published by Asif Consulting | Updated: September 2025
New Zealand is set to replace the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO) with its own National Occupation List (NOL) — a modern classification system designed to better reflect the country’s evolving labor market needs.
Overview
The National Occupation List (NOL) marks a major shift in New Zealand’s workforce classification framework. It aims to offer a more accurate, flexible, and localized approach to defining occupations for immigration, employment, and policy-making purposes.
The first version of the NOL was officially released on November 20, 2024, and its implementation is being carried out in phases, with further updates expected throughout 2025. During this transition, ANZSCO will continue to be used by Immigration New Zealand (INZ) until the NOL is fully integrated.
Purpose of the NOL
The NOL has been developed to replace the joint ANZSCO system, ensuring that New Zealand can independently maintain a classification system tailored to its specific economic and labor market dynamics.
Why the Change?
With rapid shifts in technology, industry needs, and job structures, both Australia and New Zealand identified the need for independent occupation frameworks. The NOL allows New Zealand to respond more effectively to domestic workforce demands and emerging job roles.
Implementation Timeline
- November 20, 2024: First version of NOL released
- 2025: Additional updates scheduled to refine and expand classifications
- Transition Period: ANZSCO remains in partial use while NOL adoption progresses
This phased approach ensures employers, migration agents, and visa applicants have time to adapt to the new structure.
Impact of the NOL
For Employers
Businesses and hiring managers will need to align job postings and employment reporting with the new classification codes under the NOL. Compliance with updated definitions will be crucial for recruitment, wage reporting, and visa sponsorships.
For Visa Applicants
The NOL introduces updated and accurate occupational definitions, potentially influencing visa eligibility, skill shortage assessments, and residency pathways. Applicants should refer to the NOL when preparing visa applications to ensure their occupation aligns with the latest classification.
Current Status
As of now, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) continues to reference ANZSCO for some visa categories. However, as the NOL becomes fully implemented, it will gradually replace ANZSCO across all migration and employment-related processes.
Accessing the National Occupation List (NOL)
The National Occupation List is publicly available on the Statistics New Zealand website. Employers, migration consultants, and visa applicants are encouraged to consult the list regularly for the latest updates and classification details.
