Hot off the press – the impending demise of the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO)!
INZ has announced that Statistics New Zealand will be introducing a new occupation classification system. This will replace the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO).
What is ANZSCO?
ANZSCO is a list of occupations. The occupations are graded according to their skill level, with Level 1 being the most skilled and level 5 occupations less skilled.
What is the New Zealand-based classification system called?
It is currently called the National Occupation List (NOL). However, Stats NZ is seeking feedback on the new list’s name. Therefore, it may change.
It will be released on 20 November 2024.
The NOL will allow Stats NZ to add new and emerging occupations to meet user demand and need. Importantly, it will better reflect New Zealand’s labour market and economy.
What does this mean for immigration in New Zealand?
For the time being, there will be no change to the existing employment-based visa categories, referring to the ANZSCO.
Until the NOL is published later this year and INZ transitions to using it in 2025, it is unclear as to how significant an impact the new list will have on those applying for residence or work visas based on employment under categories currently referring to the ANZSCO list.
When will a further update be made?
A further update will be provided in 2025 when INZ has confirmed a switch over date.
Where can you find further information on the new system?
You can visit the Stats NZ website to read further information about the new classification system.
Conclusion
ANZSCO has caused issues for both employers and employees since it was first introduced. It will be interesting to see how the new system fairs once it is introduced. In the meantime, if you have any questions about ANZSCO feel free to contact one of our immigration team.
