New Zealand offers several pathways for skilled migrants to obtain residency, each tailored to different qualifications and employment sectors. Understanding these options can help you determine the best route to make New Zealand your permanent home.
1. Green List – Straight to Residence (Tier 1)
This pathway is designed for individuals employed in specific high-demand sectors such as health, engineering, and ICT. To qualify:
- Employment Requirements: You must have a job offer or current employment with an accredited New Zealand employer in a role listed on Tier 1 of the Green List.
- Role Specifications: The position should be full-time (minimum of 30 hours per week), genuine, and either permanent or on a fixed-term contract of at least 12 months. Certain independent contractors may also be eligible.
Applications are open to candidates both within New Zealand and abroad.
Green List – Work to Residence (Tier 2)
For those working in roles listed on Tier 2 of the Green List, this pathway offers a route to residency after gaining relevant work experience. Eligibility criteria include:
- Work Experience: A minimum of 24 months of employment in a Tier 2 Green List occupation.
- Visa Status: Holding an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) or another qualifying work visa applied for before July 4, 2022.
- Employment Conditions: Working for an accredited employer in a full-time, genuine, and permanent role, or on a fixed-term contract of at least 12 months.
3. Skilled Migrant Category (SMC)
The SMC is a points-based system assessing various factors such as skills, qualifications, and job offers. Key requirements are:
- Points Threshold: A minimum of 6 points is needed to apply. Points can be earned through:
- Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree or higher.
- Income: Earning at least 1.5 times the median wage in New Zealand.
- New Zealand Occupational Registration: If applicable to your profession.
- Employment Offer: A skilled job offer from an accredited employer.
Applicants must also meet health, character, English language proficiency, and age requirements (55 years or younger).
4. Care Workforce Work to Residence Visa
This pathway caters to professionals in specific health and social service roles. To be eligible:
- Employment Role: Positions such as Nursing Support Worker, Personal Care Assistant, or Aged and Disabled Carer.
- Work Experience: At least 24 months of employment in New Zealand in an eligible role.
- Visa Status: Holding an AEWV or another qualifying work visa applied for before July 4, 2022.
- Employment Conditions: Working for an accredited employer in a full-time, genuine, and permanent role, or on a fixed-term contract of at least 12 months.
5. Transport Sector Agreement Work to Residence Visa
Aimed at professionals in the transport industry, this pathway requires:
- Employment Role: Specific roles as defined by Immigration New Zealand.
- Work Experience: A minimum of 24 months of employment in New Zealand in an eligible transport sector role.
- Visa Status: Holding an AEWV or another qualifying work visa applied for before July 4, 2022.
- Employment Conditions: Working for an accredited employer in a full-time, genuine, and permanent role, or on a fixed-term contract of at least 12 months.
General Requirements for All Pathways:
- Health and Character: Applicants must meet New Zealand’s health and character standards.
- English Proficiency: Demonstrating a certain level of English language proficiency is mandatory.
- Age Limit: Applicants should be 55 years old or younger at the time of application.
Navigating the various skilled residence pathways can be complex. It’s advisable to consult with immigration experts or refer to official resources to determine the most suitable pathway for your circumstances.
