Navigating ANZSCO/NOL Codes: How We Helped a Client Align Her Role for SMC Residency

Taymuraz Zaseev
Oct 24, 2024
2 min read

Applying for the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Resident Visa can be a complex process, especially when it comes to accurately representing your job role to align with the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO) codes.

Many applicants are uncertain about whether their job title is correct, how to choose the appropriate ANZSCO code, and how to demonstrate that their work is skilled—all crucial elements for a successful application with Immigration New Zealand (INZ).

Note: The ANZSCO will soon be replaced by the National Occupation List (NOL). The first version of the NOL will be released on 20 November 2024. INZ will continue using ANZSCO until the transition is completed sometime in 2025.

Understanding the Challenge

One of our clients recently faced this dilemma. She was unsure whether her job title was correct and how important it was in the SMC Resident Visa process. Additionally, she didn't know which ANZSCO code most accurately reflected her duties.

A previous Licensed Immigration Adviser had suggested that she change her employment title and backdate her employment agreement to avoid confusing INZ. However, both she and her employer were uncomfortable with altering official documents in this way.

Our Solution

She reached out to us for guidance. We advised her that, instead of changing her job title, it was more important to first accurately state her actual duties (which were not properly detailed in full). Then, we could determine which specific ANZSCO code they most closely align with.

It is our view that INZ focuses on what an applicant actually does in their role, not just the job title. By aligning her genuine job responsibilities with the relevant ANZSCO code, we could present an honest and compelling case for her skilled employment. This ensures that there isis evidence of her performing the required tasks in case INZ queries this points.

How We Assisted

We prepared an addendum to her existing employment agreement, outlining her actual job duties without backdating or improperly altering the original agreement. This document will be signed by both her and her employer, indicating mutual agreement.
We provided an extended template for a Certificate of Employment that referenced the addendum and detailed her tasks and duties, eliminating any discrepancies between documents.
Leveraging our experience, we bridged the gap between what ANZSCO requires, her employment agreement, and her actual job functions in a proper and transparent manner.

The Outcome

Our client was relieved and pleased to find a solution that maintained the integrity of her employment records while satisfying INZ's requirements.

She appreciated our transparent and ethical approach, which not only facilitated her visa application but also kept her employer comfortable with a clear and straightforward process.

Get in Touch

If you're facing similar challenges with your SMC Resident Visa application or need assistance aligning your job role with the correct ANZSCO code, we're here to help.