Australia and New Zealand are modernizing their work visa
classifications, phasing out the old ANZSCO framework in favor of systems
designed to reflect each country’s labor needs.
From Shared to Specialized Lists
Launched in 2006, the ANZSCO system was a joint framework for classifying occupations. Yet economic shifts and skill gaps have shown that each country now requires a more tailored approach. After consultations, both countries received strong support for unique systems.
New Zealand’s National Occupation List (NOL)
Launched on November 20, 2024, New Zealand’s NOL will align immigration with its most urgent industry needs. This system makes it easier to pinpoint roles in fields like healthcare, construction, and tech, ensuring that visas better meet workforce demands and open opportunities for skilled talent where it’s needed most.
Australia’s Occupation Standard Classification (OSCA)
Australia’s OSCA, debuting on December 6, 2024, follows a similar purpose, emphasizing roles with acute talent shortages in sectors such as engineering, healthcare, and renewable energy. By organizing visas around local priorities, OSCA supports streamlined pathways for skilled immigrants to meet these needs.
What Foreign Workers Can Expect
The OSCA and NOL systems offer clearer paths for skilled foreign professionals. By better matching local industry demand, they simplify the application process, allowing skilled workers to identify roles that meet updated eligibility criteria.
Timeline for Change
Both countries are phasing out ANZSCO
gradually until full implementation in 2025. During this transition, ANZSCO
will still be in use to ease adaptation for applicants, employers, and
authorities.
Australia and New Zealand’s shift to OSCA
and NOL demonstrates a commitment to keeping their immigration systems
responsive and relevant. Whether you are an employer or a skilled worker,
these changes provide several opportunities to ease labor shortages in a number
of key industries and demand areas.
