Understanding the Green List

In an effort to attract skilled workers, the New Zealand government has established the Green List. This list highlights high-demand, high-skill roles that offer a streamlined pathway to New Zealand residency for qualified individuals. This fast-tracked pathway means workers who have a job offer from a New Zealand accredited employer in one of the Green List occupations can come to New Zealand on a work visa and apply for New Zealand residency if they meet the criteria. Applicants must have a job offer that matches the description and requirements and the listed occupations, which span across various fields such as healthcare, education, plumbing, electrical work, engineering, and IT.

Why it matters?

For skilled migrants aspiring to work in New Zealand, inclusion on the Green List presents a notable advantage, offering an expedited route to residency for high-demand roles. This facilitates the integration of qualified migrants into New Zealand’s workforce, enabling them to pursue their careers and establish themselves in the country more efficiently.

Explore the Green List

Discover the latest Green List roles and see if your occupation qualifies: Green List Roles. The list is regularly updated to reflect evolving workforce needs. Keep in mind that while new roles were added as of 23 September 2023, applicants in such roles will only be eligible to apply for a resident visa in March 2024 (subject to them meeting the relevant policy criteria).

Understanding the Tiers

The Green List operates in two tiers: Tier 1 for the Straight to Residence Visa and Tier 2 for the Work to Residence Visa, each offering distinct pathways to residency.

• • • • • • Tier 1 – Straight to Residence: Ideal for those already employed by an accredited employer or with a job offer from one, the Straight to Residence Visa is granted to eligible roles listed on Tier 1 of the Green List. These roles, such as secondary school teachers,  auditors, various engineering positions, numerous healthcare roles, and IT roles, must meet specific occupational registration, wage, and qualification criteria. Successful applicants receive a resident visa, granting indefinite stay in New Zealand with access to healthcare and education systems. This visa eliminates the need for temporary visas and can be applied for within or outside New Zealand.
        • • Tier 2 – Work to Residence: The Work to Residence visa offers a route to permanent residency for individuals currently employed by an accredited employer. To qualify, applicants must have worked in a Tier 2 Green List role for at least 24 months, meeting the outlined requirements specific to their occupation. Tier 2 roles encompass various teaching, trades, and agricultural positions, each with detailed criteria listed on the Green List.

Want to know if your occupation is on the Green List and what your visa options are? Please contact us today.