Obtaining New Zealand Permanent Residency
The Skilled Resident Visas that appear on New Zealand's Green List are occupations that are highly sought after. This category provides migrant workers with employer-backed residency options and is considered one of the best ways to obtain New Zealand residency. The Green List comprises a wide variety of occupations, such as health workers, veterinarians, engineers, ICT specialists, teachers, and particular trade occupations. Although the list may be updated periodically, the ultimate goal is to facilitate the hiring of skilled migrants by providing a pathway to residency.
To qualify for the Skilled Resident Visa, you must meet specific requirements based on your occupation, such as a certain level of education or work experience, or a minimum salary. Additionally, you must be under 56 years of age and demonstrate a particular level of English proficiency for both yourself and any dependents over the age of 16.
You may apply for residency for both your partner and dependent children, provided that you have been in a genuine, stable relationship with your partner for at least 12 months, and your children are considered dependent until they reach the age of 24, with additional evidence of dependency required for those over the age of 20.
Skilled Residence: 3 Pathways for Migrants to Obtain New Zealand Residency
New Zealand's Skilled Residence category offers three pathways for migrants seeking residency based on their employment in the country. Each pathway has specific requirements and eligibility criteria.
Tier 1 Green List Occupations: Straight to Residence
Migrants who secure a role from an Accredited Employer in one of the Tier 1 occupations of the Green List may be eligible to apply for fast-track residence. This can be done from either overseas or within New Zealand. However, certain occupations require meeting a specific threshold in terms of qualifications, work experience, or salary.
Tier 2 Green List Occupations: Work to Residence
Migrants who secure a role from an Accredited Employer in one of the Tier 2 occupations of the Green List may be eligible to apply for residence after working for two years in that role within New Zealand. Experience may be counted from 29 September 2021. Again, certain occupations require meeting a specific threshold in terms of qualifications, work experience, or salary.
Highly Paid Roles: Work to Residence
Migrants who secure a highly paid role from an Accredited Employer and are paid at or above twice the median wage may be eligible to apply for residence after working for two years on that salary in any occupation. Experience may be counted from 29 September 2021..