47 skilled jobs have been added to New Zealand's AEWV Work Visa 2026 Occupation List

Are you going to get a job in New Zealand? The most recent changes to New Zealand’s AEWV Work Visa 2026 and the National Occupation List (NOL) provide exciting new options for skilled workers who want to move to New Zealand in 2026.

Moving to New Zealand has included 47 new jobs at skill levels 1–3 in its list of occupations. This makes it easier than ever for workers from other nations to secure a visa to work in New Zealand.

If you are applying from the UAE or any GCC country, experienced immigration consultants for New Zealand from Abu Dhabi can also guide you through the eligibility requirements, job offer process, and visa application steps.

Read our blog on: The New Zealand Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) to know more!

What are the latest changes to New Zealand's immigration rules in 2026?

In this next section, learn about key updates to occupation lists and visa rules.

The AEWV List now includes 47 new skilled jobs.

Starting March 9, 2026, employers and migrants can apply for additional Skill Level 1–3 jobs, reflecting New Zealand’s shift from ANZSCO to the NOL and keeping regulations aligned with market needs.

47 New Skilled Jobs Added to New Zealand's AEWV Work Visa 2026 Occupation List

Head of Sustainability
Chef de Cuisine / Executive Chef, an expert in keeping organic food safe
People who know a lot about virtual and augmented reality
Joinery Managers
Energy Assessors, Sous Chef, Chef de Partie, and a lot more

Increased Median Wage Requirement for New Zealand's AEWV Work Visa 2026

Based on the most recent data from June 2025, the median wage for immigrants will climb to NZD $35.00 per hour starting in March 2026. This change has an effect on:

Green List pay limits

Minimum income criteria for partners and kids who depend on them
Advertising exemptions for jobs paying twice the median wage
Skilled residence pathways, which could affect employment, such as those for teaching professionals

Job Reclassification: What’s Changing?

On March 9, 2026, three jobs will move from Skill Level 3 to Skill Level 4: pet groomer, nanny, and kennel hand.

For new applications:

To be able to get Skill Level 4, you must be able to speak English well.

Employers must consult with the Ministry of Social Development during job checks.
Visa periods may be shorter, and there may be more limitations for partners and dependents.

Note: Applications approved before March 8, 2026, are not impacted by these changes.

Who Can Get a Work Visa for New Zealand in 2026?

Key Requirements for Skilled Worker Visa Applicants in 2026

Next, we outline the main requirements that all applicants must meet.

To apply for the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) or other skilled worker immigration pathways in 2026, applicants must first secure a job offer that is classified at Skill Level 1–3 on the updated National Occupation List (NOL). In addition, applicants must earn at least $35.00 per hour and meet the role’s required qualifications, relevant work experience, and English language standards.

For those who already hold an AEWV and are currently working in a Skill Level 4 or 5 position, there may still be opportunities to move into a higher-skilled role. In such cases, the employer can support the transition by completing a job check, which allows the worker to apply for a position that meets the higher skill level requirements.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Get a Work Visa for New Zealand

Look at the 2026 New Zealand Occupation List to be sure your employment is on it.
Make sure your job offer meets or exceeds the new median wage and other requirements.
Job Check by Employer: Your employer must post the job for at least 14 days and show that they are trying to hire New Zealand nationals first.
Send in your AEWV application: Get your application ready and send it in with all the necessary paperwork.
Include Family Members: If you want to bring your partner or kids, check the new income limits.

Why the Update to the 2026 Occupation List is Important

Now, let’s discuss the wider impact of these changes on applicants and employers.

Benefits for Employers:

Access to a larger pool of qualified candidates for hard-to-fill positions.

Benefits for those who apply:

Now, let’s review what skilled workers can expect from these changes.

Benefits for people who already have an AEWV:

Opportunities to move up in your career and remain longer.

Full List: 47 New Jobs Added to the NOL for AEWV (2026)

Skill Level 1 jobs:

Head of Remote Work
Leader of Sustainability
Executive Chef or Chef de Cuisine
Specialist in Organic Conservation
Modeller of Building Information
Specialist in Accessible Formats Associate
Physician
Expert in virtual and augmented reality
Business Architect
Joinery Manager or Project Manager
Head of Staff
Executive Assistant (CEO/Board Level)

Skill Level 2 jobs:

Biomedical Science Technician
Environmental Engineering Technician
Reinforcing/Structural Steel Detailer
CAD Draftsperson
Wine Laboratory Technician
Digital Imaging Technician
Environmental Technician
Energy Assessor
Chef de Partie, Sous Chef

Skill Level 3 jobs:

Emergency Medical Technician
Elderly Care Coordinator
Embalmer
Skydiving Instructor, tandem skydiving master/instructor
Administration Specialist
Accounting Practice Manager
Legal Practice Manager
Mechanical Launch Technician
Demi Chef de Partie, Other Chef, Peer
Support Worker
Ski Patrol, Timber Worker
Senior Timber Treatment Plant Operator
Advanced Mobile Plant Operator (Agri/Hort)
Ice Cream Process Control Machine Operator
Meat Boner or Cutter,
Site Traffic Management Supervisor (STMS)
Tandem Skydiving Master/Instructor
Administration Specialist
Accounting Practice Manager
Legal Practice Manager, and Skill

Start Your New Zealand Work Visa Journey with Navigate Migrate

Ready to take the next step toward living and working in New Zealand? Navigate Migrate is here to guide you every step of the way with reliable advice, up-to-date immigration information, and full support throughout your visa application process.

Our services include:

Personalized eligibility assessments to determine the best visa pathway for you
Complete assistance with documentation and application preparation
The latest updates on New Zealand’s immigration policies for 2026

With expert guidance and dedicated support from the best immigration consultants in Abu Dhabi, you can move forward with confidence on your journey to securing a New Zealand work visa.

Let Navigate Migrate help turn your New Zealand dream into reality.

Conclusion:

With the 2026 update to the New Zealand occupation list, skilled workers have more opportunities than ever. Stay informed about immigration changes and rely on Navigate Migrate for expert guidance on your New Zealand work visa journey. Secure your future in one of the world’s most welcoming countries—start your application today!

For more information, reach out to the Navigate Migrate team and take the first step toward living and working in New Zealand.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) - New Zealand's AEWV Work Visa 2026

What is the Accredited Employer Work Visa in New Zealand?

The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) is a visa that allows skilled foreign workers to live and work in New Zealand for an approved employer. The employer must be accredited and demonstrate that they cannot fill the role with a local worker before hiring someone from overseas. If you are applying from the UAE, professional immigration consultants for New Zealand from Abu Dhabi can guide you through the application process and ensure all requirements are met.

2. What new occupations were added to the New Zealand work visa list in 2026?

In 2026, New Zealand expanded its skilled occupation list by adding 47 new roles across several industries. These include positions in hospitality, environmental services, healthcare support, construction, forestry, and digital technology, creating more opportunities for skilled migrants. Applicants working with immigration consultants for New Zealand from Abu Dhabi, Oman, Bahrain, Qatar and Kuwait can get expert advice on which roles best match their skills and eligibility.

3. What is the minimum wage requirement for AEWV applicants in 2026?

Starting in March 2026, many applicants under the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) must earn at least NZD $35.00 per hour, based on updated national median wage data.

4. What is the National Occupation List used in New Zealand immigration?

The National Occupation List (NOL) is the system used to categorize jobs according to their skill level. It helps determine whether a role qualifies for certain work visas or residency pathways.

5. Can workers in lower-skilled jobs still apply for an AEWV?

Yes, workers in Skill Level 4 or 5 roles may still qualify for an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV), but the visa conditions can be stricter. These roles may have shorter visa durations and additional requirements.

6. Do employers need approval before hiring foreign workers?

Yes. Employers must first gain accreditation from Immigration New Zealand and complete a job check process to show that no suitable local candidates are available.

7. Can AEWV holders change jobs in New Zealand?

In many cases, AEWV holders can change jobs, but the new employer must also be accredited and may need to complete a new job check before the worker can start the position.

8. Is it possible to apply for permanent residence after getting an AEWV?

Some AEWV holders may eventually qualify for residence pathways depending on their occupation, salary level, and length of employment in New Zealand.

9. How long does it take to process a New Zealand work visa?

Processing times vary depending on the visa category and application details. However, applications submitted through Immigration New Zealand typically take several weeks once all required documents are provided.

10. How can I improve my chances of getting a New Zealand work visa?

Applicants can strengthen their chances by: Securing a job with an accredited employer, Meeting wage and skill requirements, Providing clear proof of qualifications and work experience, Ensuring their occupation appears on the National Occupation List (NOL).