New Zealand’s updated immigration policy is expected to create new overseas employment opportunities for Pakistani skilled workers, as the country added 47 occupations to its work visa eligibility list under the National Occupation List (NOL) 2026.
The announcement by Immigration New Zealand expands access to skilled foreign labor through the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) program, benefiting workers from countries including Pakistan.
How Pakistani Workers Can Benefit From New Zealand Work Visa Jobs
Pakistani professionals, technicians, and skilled laborers working in shortage sectors may now have improved chances of securing employment in New Zealand.
The new policy recognizes labor shortages in key industries such as healthcare, construction, information technology, and hospitality.
Many Pakistani workers already migrate abroad for employment, and this update could further strengthen overseas job opportunities for Pakistanis seeking higher wages and career growth.
47 High-Skill Jobs Open for Foreign Workers
From 9 March 2026, employers in New Zealand can request Job Checks for 47 newly recognized occupations.
Major sectors include:
Healthcare Sector
- Registered nurses
- Physiotherapists
- Occupational therapists
This is particularly significant for Pakistani medical professionals seeking international career opportunities.
Also Read: Italy offers thousands of work visas for Pakistanis
Construction and Technical Trades
- Electricians
- Plumbers
- Carpenters
- Diesel mechanics
Pakistani skilled workers in the construction industry may benefit from high global demand.
IT and Education Sector
- Software developers
- Network engineers
- School teachers
- Early childhood educators
Pakistan’s growing IT workforce could gain access to New Zealand’s technology market.
Hospitality and Agriculture
- Head chefs
- Sous chefs
- Horticulture specialists
These sectors continue to face labor shortages in New Zealand.
Labor Market Testing Still Required
Employers must follow Labor Market Testing (LMT) rules before hiring migrant workers.
They are required to:
- Advertise jobs locally for at least 14 days
- Demonstrate efforts to hire New Zealand citizens first
- Confirm no suitable local candidate is available
Only after meeting these conditions can foreign workers be recruited.
Wage Threshold Increase
From March 2026, the immigration median wage will rise to NZD $35 per hour.
This change affects:
- Green List occupation requirements
- High-skill work exemptions
- Residence pathway eligibility
- Family sponsorship rules
Also Read: Portugal opens Residency Visa opportunities for Pakistani citizens
What Pakistani Applicants Should Know
Pakistani workers planning to apply for New Zealand jobs should:
- Check occupation eligibility under NOL
- Meet updated wage requirements
- Ensure English language proficiency
- Coordinate with registered employers
Experts say New Zealand’s immigration system is becoming more selective, focusing on genuine skill shortages rather than low-skilled migration.
Long-Term Impact for Pakistani Workforce
The policy could benefit Pakistan by providing:
- Remittance inflow growth
- Skilled labor international exposure
- Professional development opportunities
- Legal migration channels
Employment migration to countries like New Zealand remains an important pathway for Pakistani professionals seeking global careers.
