Status: In force (Effective 9 March 2026)
New occupations recognised under the national occupation list and annual median wage increase
Immigration New Zealand has expanded the National Occupation List by adding 47 roles across skill levels 1 to 3 and raised the annual median wage threshold to NZD $35.00 per hour. These updates apply to employer-sponsored work visas, family categories, and skilled residence pathways.
What this means in practice
The policy updates introduce changes across temporary and resident visa frameworks. The inclusion of 47 additional skill level 1 to 3 occupations broadens recruitment options for employers and visa pathways for applicants. Concurrently, the baseline median wage increase to NZD $35.00 per hour resets salary thresholds for Accredited Employer Work Visas and related visa tiers.
In addition, three specific occupations—pet groomer, nanny, and kennel hand—are reclassified from skill level 3 down to skill level 4, altering their visa eligibility criteria and duration limits. Corresponding salary thresholds for partner support and skilled residence categories are adjusted to maintain alignment with the new median wage standard.
Who should check this
This update is relevant for employers recruiting migrant workers, current Accredited Employer Work Visa holders, applicants preparing work visa submissions, and individuals navigating skilled residence or family visa categories where wage thresholds determine eligibility.
Practical checklist
- Verify job descriptions against the expanded National Occupation List before lodging Job Checks.
- Audit employment contracts to ensure offered salary rates meet or exceed the NZD $35.00 per hour median wage.
- Review role classifications for pet groomers, nannies, and kennel hands to account for their reclassification to skill level 4.
- Check supporting salary thresholds for pending family and skilled residence visa applications.
Important limits or current position
These adjustments do not guarantee visa approval, as all standard health, character, and individual visa criteria continue to apply.
This article is general information, not individual immigration advice.
Not sure whether this update affects your plan? Start your NZ visa assessment
Source note: Based on an official Immigration New Zealand announcement published 18 February 2026. Article status: In force [1].
[1] Immigration New Zealand, "New occupations recognised under the National Occupation List and annual median wage increase," 18 February 2026, Open source on immigration.govt.nz ↗