The Median Wage Increase 2026 announced by Immigration New Zealand introduces important changes to wage thresholds and the National Occupation List (NOL), effective from 9 March 2026. These updates may impact migrant workers, employers, and individuals planning to apply for an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV).

As immigration settings continue to evolve, understanding how the Median Wage Increase 2026 affects visa eligibility and employment requirements is essential when planning your next steps in New Zealand.

Median Wage Increase 2026 Explained

The immigration median wage is a benchmark used by Immigration New Zealand to set salary thresholds across visa categories. From 9 March 2026, it increases from $33.56 to $35.00 per hour, based on June 2025 Stats NZ data. 

While the general median wage requirement for AEWV applications was removed in March 2025, this benchmark remains critical for Green List visa applications, partner and dependent visa support, skilled residence pathways (including Skilled Migrant Category and Transport Work to Residence visas), and Parent Category sponsorship. 

Key threshold changes from 9 March 2026: 

• Partner support for Skill Level 1–3 roles: $28.00/hour 

• Partner support for Green List roles: $52.50/hour (1.5x median wage) 

• Skilled residence pathways: Some applicants need higher pay steps—teachers must now be on Step 5 instead of Step 4 

If you’re planning to apply for residence or support family members, you may need to earn more to meet these new thresholds. 

National Occupation List Changes Under the Median Wage Increase 2026

The National Occupation List (NOL) is New Zealand’s new job classification system, replacing the Australia New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO). The NOL better reflects the modern New Zealand labour market and provides a more accurate framework for classifying jobs based on skill level, training requirements, and labour market demand. 

First announced in November 2024, the NOL is being introduced gradually. Most visa applications currently use ANZSCO, but the NOL is being integrated progressively across immigration systems. 

47 New Occupations Recognized 

From 9 March 2026, 47 additional occupations at skill levels 1 to 3 will be recognized under the NOL for AEWV applications. This opens new pathways to work in New Zealand and potentially qualify for residence. 

Notable changes include chef roles being split into clearer occupations based on skill level and seniority. Workers in newly recognized occupations can now apply for AEWVs if their employer completes a Job Check. Some current AEWV holders in related skill level 4 or 5 roles may now transition into recognized skill level 1–3 positions, potentially extending their maximum continuous stay. 

Occupation Reclassification to Skill Level 4 

Three occupations have been reclassified from skill level 3 to skill level 4: Pet Groomer, Nanny, and Kennel Hand. 

All new Job Check applications for these roles from 9 March 2026 onwards must meet skill level 4 requirements, including English language proficiency, Ministry of Social Development (MSD) engagement, shorter maximum continuous stay, and limited partner and dependent support. 

Important: If you already hold an AEWV for these roles, or if your employer’s Job Check was submitted on or before 8 March 2026, you are not affected. Your existing visa remains valid under the previous skill level 3 classification. Only future applications will be assessed as skill level 4. 

Impact on AEWV Holders 

Some AEWV holders in skill level 4 or 5 roles closely related to newly recognized skill level 1–3 occupations may now apply for a new AEWV under the updated NOL. This could extend your maximum continuous stay, improve residence eligibility, and enable partner or dependent support. Your employer must have an approved Job Check for the relevant role, and you must be suitably qualified. 

Workers in reclassified roles (pet groomer, nanny, kennel hand) should note that renewing or changing jobs may now require meeting skill level 4 requirements, including English language tests and more rigorous Job Check processes. 

What Employers Need to Know 

From 9 March 2026, employers can submit Job Checks for the 47 newly recognized NOL occupations at skill levels 1–3, including updated chef roles. You must still advertise roles for at least 14 days and make genuine efforts to hire suitable New Zealanders first. 

Ensure migrant employees meet updated salary thresholds, especially those on Green List visas, supporting partners or dependents, or planning residence applications. Failure to meet thresholds could jeopardize visa status or residence applications. 

If you employ pet groomers, nannies, or kennel hands, new Job Check applications must meet skill level 4 requirements, including MSD engagement to demonstrate no suitable New Zealanders are available. 

What These Changes Mean for Migrants 

Overall, these updates present both opportunities and challenges for migrants and employers. The addition of 47 occupations means more people can qualify for AEWVs, workers in newly recognized skill level 1–3 roles may extend their stay, and higher skill level roles often lead to residence pathways like the Skilled Migrant Category or Green List. 

However, the median wage increase means you may need to earn more to support family members or qualify for residence. If your occupation moved to skill level 4, you may face stricter requirements and shorter visa durations. Employers must prioritize New Zealand workers, so demonstrating your unique skills is increasingly important. 

Planning considerations: When planning your next steps, consider checking whether your occupation is newly recognized, assessing your salary against updated thresholds, and understanding your pathway to residence.

Why These Changes Matter 

These updates reflect New Zealand’s evolving approach to immigration and workforce planning. By introducing the NOL and updating wage thresholds annually, the government aims to better match immigration settings to labour market needs, ensure fair wages for migrant workers, balance migrant and domestic employment, and support economic growth by addressing workforce shortages in key sectors. 

For migrants, these changes signal that New Zealand remains open to skilled workers, with a focus on ensuring immigration benefits both newcomers and the local economy. 

Practical Next Steps 

For Migrants and AEWV Holders:
Review your occupation under the NOL, assess your salary against the new $35/hour median wage threshold, check your visa expiry, explore residence options if you’re now in a skill level 1–3 role, and seek professional advice. 

For Employers:
Update Job Check applications for newly recognized occupations, review employee salaries, understand reclassification impacts, and maintain compliance by prioritizing New Zealand workers. 

For Prospective Migrants:
Research the NOL to determine if your occupation is recognized, calculate salary expectations, prepare documentation including qualifications and English language tests, and consult with licensed advisers. 

Conclusion 

The 9 March 2026 updates represent significant changes to New Zealand’s immigration landscape. The median wage increases to $35/hour, 47 new occupations are recognized at skill levels 1–3, and three occupations are reclassified to skill level 4. Current visa holders are generally protected, but new applications must meet updated criteria. 

Staying informed about immigration policy changes is essential for protecting your visa status and maximizing opportunities in New Zealand. Whether planning your career move, supporting your family’s immigration journey, or managing a workforce, understanding these updates helps you make confident decisions. 

Need personalized guidance? At Choose New Zealand, our licensed immigration advisers help you navigate these changes and plan your pathway with confidence. 

Book your Consultation with our Immigration Adviser here – https://www.choosenewzealand.com/consultation-booking

📧 Email: info@choosenewzealand.com
📞 Phone: +64 22 043 3907 

Frequently Asked Questions 

When do these changes take effect?
Both changes take effect on 9 March 2026. Job Check applications for newly recognized occupations can be submitted from this date. 

Does the median wage increase affect all AEWV holders?
Not directly. The general median wage requirement for AEWVs was removed in March 2025. However, it affects Green List visa pay requirements, partner visa income thresholds, and skilled residence pathways. 

I’m working as a nanny on an AEWV. Will my visa be affected?
No. If you already hold an AEWV for a nanny role, or if your employer’s Job Check was submitted on or before 8 March 2026, your visa remains valid under skill level 3. Only new applications from 9 March onwards will be assessed as skill level 4. 

How do I know if my occupation is newly recognized?
Immigration New Zealand has published the full NOL list on their website. You can review it or consult with a licensed immigration adviser. 

Can I switch from a skill level 4 role to a newly recognized skill level 1–3 role?
Yes, if your employer has an approved Job Check for a relevant NOL skill level 1–3 role and you are suitably qualified, you may apply for a new AEWV, potentially extending your stay and improving residence prospects. 

What if I’m unsure how these changes affect me?
Consult with a licensed immigration adviser who can review your specific situation and help you plan the best pathway forward.