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Residence Visas:

New Zealand offers several residence visa pathways for people who wish to settle in the country on a long-term or permanent basis. These options are designed for skilled workers and professionals whose experience, qualifications, and employment can contribute to New Zealand’s economy and communities. Depending on your occupation, job offer, and work history, you may be able to apply for residence directly or follow a work-to-residence pathway. Each residence category has its own eligibility criteria, requirements, and timelines, and choosing the right option is an important first step in planning your move to New Zealand.

Straight to Residence Visa

The Straight to Residence Visa allows highly skilled professionals to apply directly for New Zealand residence without first holding a temporary work visa. It is designed for occupations where New Zealand has ongoing skill shortages, including healthcare, engineering, IT, education, and infrastructure. Applicants must hold a full-time job offer from an accredited New Zealand employer in a role listed on the Tier 1 Green List, and must meet the specific qualification, experience, or registration requirements for that occupation. The role must closely match the Green List description and relevant ANZSCO code. If approved, applicants are granted New Zealand residence from the outset, with full rights to live, work, and study. Partners and dependent children can be included in the same application and receive residence at the same time.

Skilled Migrant Category (SMC)

The Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) is a residence pathway for skilled professionals seeking long-term settlement in New Zealand. It is designed for people whose qualifications, work experience, and employment can make a meaningful contribution to New Zealand’s workforce and economy.

This pathway operates on a points-based system, with points awarded for factors such as a skilled job or job offer in New Zealand, qualifications, work experience, income level, and whether the occupation is on the Green List. Applicants who meet the required points threshold (currently 6 points) may be eligible to apply for residence.

Applicants generally require a skilled job offer from an accredited New Zealand employer, strong English language skills, and must meet health and character requirements. If approved, the Skilled Migrant Category grants permanent residence, allowing applicants to live, work, and study in New Zealand. Partners and dependent children can also be included.

Work to Residence (WTR) Work Visais

The Work to Residence (WTR) Work Visais a temporary visa that allows skilled workers to live and work in New Zealand while working toward residence. It is granted for up to 30 months, with a pathway to apply for residence after completing 24 months of full-time work in an eligible role. This visa applies to occupations listed on Tier 2 of the Green List. These roles are in demand in New Zealand but require applicants to first demonstrate local work experience before becoming eligible for residence. The Work to Residence pathway is specifically designed to lead to residence if all criteria are met. To be eligible, applicants must hold a genuine, full-time job (at least 30 hours per week) with an accredited New Zealand employer in a Green List Tier 2 role. They must also meet the role’s skill and wage requirements, along with standard health and character criteria. Tier 2 roles include occupations such as early childhood teachers, aged-care registered nurses, engineering and telecommunications technicians, and certain bus and truck drivers. As the Green List is reviewed regularly, it is important to confirm that the role remains eligible at the time of application. After completing two years of full-time work in an eligible Tier 2 role, and meeting all requirements, applicants may then apply for the Work to Residence Resident Visa.

Partnership Visas

Partnership visas allow eligible couples to live together in New Zealand. If your relationship is genuine and stable, you may be able to apply for a visitor visa, work visa, or residence visa. The most suitable option will depend on your partner’s immigration status and how long you have been living together.

Partner of a Student - Visitor Visa

This visa allows you to join your partner in New Zealand while they study. It is a temporary option and usually does not allow you to work. You must show that your relationship is genuine and that you intend to stay in New Zealand for a limited period.

Partner of a Student - Work Visa

If your partner holds a valid New Zealand student visa and is studying an eligible course, you may be able to apply for a partnership-based work visa. This allows you to live together in New Zealand and, in some cases, work full-time. Eligibility depends on the level and type of course your partner is enrolled in.

Partner of a Worker - Visitor Visa

This visa lets you visit New Zealand to be with your partner while they are working. It is intended for temporary stays and does not provide work rights. You will need to show evidence of a genuine and stable relationship and meet standard visitor visa requirements.

Partner of a Worker - Work Visa

If your partner holds an eligible New Zealand work visa, you may be able to apply for a partnership-based work visa. This allows you to live together in New Zealand and usually provides open work rights. The length and conditions of the visa depend on your partner’s visa type and employment situation.

Partner of a New Zealander - Visitor Visa

This visa allows you to visit New Zealand to spend time with your New Zealand citizen or resident partner. It is suitable for short-term stays and does not usually permit work. You must meet visitor visa requirements and show that your relationship is genuine.

Partner of a New Zealander - Work Visa

This visa allows you to live and work in New Zealand based on your relationship with a New Zealand citizen or resident. It is commonly used by couples who are living together but have not yet met the requirements to apply for residence.

Partner of a New Zealander - Resident Visa

If you have been living together in a genuine and stable relationship with your New Zealand citizen or resident partner for 12 months or more, you may be eligible to apply for residence. This visa allows couples to settle in New Zealand on a permanent basis and build their future together.

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