What Bookkeepers need to know
Disclaimer: The information in this article is based on Xero’s announcement email released on 18 September 2025. Details may change as Xero rolls out the new certification framework.
Launching 1 October 2025, Xero has announced a completely redesigned certification programme – faster, more flexible, and more relevant to the way Bookkeepers work.
For years, Bookkeepers have told Xero that the certification pathway was too time-consuming, sometimes not relevant, and lacked a clear progression. Xero has listened – and the result is a fresh framework that puts you in control of your learning.
What’s Changing in the Xero Certification Announcement 2025
A New Three-Level Framework
The new certification is structured into three levels, building your skills step by step:
Level 1: Xero Certified Associate (1–2 hours)
Level 2: Xero Certified Professional (4–5 hours)
Level 3: Xero Certified Specialist (7–8 hours) — coming in 2026
You’ll need to complete each level in order, but you choose how you learn: self-paced digital courses, live webinars, or straight to the assessment if you already know your stuff.
Practical, Hands-On Assessments
Instead of theory-heavy content, the new assessments require you to complete real tasks in a Xero demo company – giving you practical proof of your skills.
Specialism Badges in Xero Certification
Certification goes beyond the basics with optional badges that highlight your expertise in high-value areas. The Payroll badge is the first to launch on 1 October 2025, with more industry and workflow badges to follow.
Key Takeaways from the Xero Certification Announcement 2025
Automatic upgrades: If you’re a current Xero Certified Advisor, you’ll automatically become a Level 2 Xero Certified Professional on 1 October. If you already hold Payroll Certification, you’ll automatically receive the new Payroll badge. Both will expire on 30 September 2026.
Time saved: Skip content you already know and focus only on what’s new.
Client credibility: Levels and badges make it easier to showcase your skills to clients and employers.
Earn CPD/CPE points: You’ll get points by completing learning content (self-paced or live) and passing the assessment. Note: taking the assessment alone won’t earn CPD/CPE points.
Simpler recertification: Just complete one annual assessment for your highest level, tracked on a rolling 12-month basis from your certification date.
Why the Xero Certification Announcement 2025 Matters for Bookkeepers
Certification isn’t just a tick-box exercise – it’s a way to:
Demonstrate your expertise and stand out in a competitive market
Stay up to date with Xero’s evolving tools and features
Build client confidence by showcasing specialisms in Payroll and beyond
Earn CPD/CPE points while building skills that directly benefit your practice
As Bookkeepers, we know clients value credibility. This new framework provides a clear, recognised pathway that helps you grow your knowledge and highlight your expertise.
Next Steps After the Xero Certification Announcement 2025
From 1 October 2025, you’ll see the new certification pathway in your Xero learning account. Whether you’re just getting started or already an experienced professional, this updated programme gives you the tools to keep learning, growing, and proving your expertise.
At NZQBA, we’ll keep you updated as Xero releases more details about the certification changes. Our goal is to make sure Bookkeepers across New Zealand know exactly what’s happening, what it means for your business, and how you can get the most value from your certification.
We’ll share updates in our Bookkeeper group, newsletters, and right here on the blog – so you’ll always have the latest information at your fingertips.
