A Guide to New Zealand Immigration Green List

Dreaming of a life in New Zealand? For skilled professionals worldwide, the New Zealand Immigration Green List is the single most important policy defining the pathway to permanent residence in Aotearoa. Introduced to address critical skills shortages, the Green List provides two clear, streamlined routes for highly-valued migrants.

Here is your comprehensive guide to understanding what the Green List is, how it works, and how it could unlock your future in New Zealand.

What is the Green List?

The Green List is a targeted inventory of high-demand jobs where New Zealand has a serious skill shortage. It is a government strategy to rapidly attract and keep skilled migrants by offering them a clear, fast track to residence. The list covers essential areas like healthcare and engineering and is regularly updated to match the country's changing needs.

The Two Tiers: Straight vs. Work

The Green List is divided into two distinct tiers. The tier your job falls into determines the speed and requirements of your residence application:

Tier	Pathway Name	Residence Application Timeline	Key Feature
Tier 1	Straight to Residence	Apply for a residence visa immediately.	For the most globally in-demand, highly-skilled roles.
Tier 2	Work to Residence	Apply for a residence visa after 24 months of working in New Zealand.	For roles in high demand that require a period of local experience.

Tier 1: The Straight to Residence Advantage

The Straight to Residence Visa is the fastest path available. If your job is on Tier 1, you can apply for residence immediately, provided you meet the criteria.

Key Requirements:

• Age Limit: 55 years or younger.

• Employment: Have an offer of, or be working in, a Tier 1 Green List job with an Accredited Employer.

• Job Details: Must be full-time and meet specific duration requirements (e.g., permanent, or fixed-term for 12+ months).

• Wages and Criteria: Must be paid at least the specified rate for your job and meet all the job's requirements (qualifications, registration, etc.).

• Character & Health: Must meet New Zealand’s health and character requirements.

• English Language: Must speak and understand English.

Visa Benefits:

• Indefinite Stay: Allows you to live, work, and study in New Zealand indefinitely.

• Processing Priority: Applications are processed quickly.

• Family Inclusion: Includes your partner and dependent children.

• Path to PR: Eligible for a Permanent Resident Visa after just two years.

Tier 2: The Work to Residence Pathway

The Work to Residence pathway is designed for roles that are critical but benefit from a period of settlement and local experience.

Key Requirements:

• Employment: Obtain an Accredited Employer Work Visa to work in a Tier 2 Green List occupation.

• Work Duration: Work in your eligible Tier 2 role for 24 months in New Zealand.

• Wages and Criteria: Meet the specific wage and qualification requirements for your role.

After completing the 24 months, you can apply for the residence visa, provided you are still employed in an eligible role and meet all other health, character, and English language requirements.

Who is on the Green List?

The list is broad, but consistently features professionals in these core areas:

• Healthcare: Registered Nurses, Specialist Doctors, Midwives, Radiologists.

• Engineering & Infrastructure: Civil Engineers, Structural Engineers, Electrical Engineers, Surveyors.

• ICT & Tech: Software Developers, Cybersecurity Professionals, Multimedia Specialists.

• Construction & Trades: Construction Project Managers, Quantity Surveyors, various skilled tradespeople.

Crucial Note: Always check the official Immigration New Zealand website. The specific requirements for each occupation (qualifications, registration bodies, and minimum experience) are legally binding and frequently updated.

Conclusion: Is the Green List Your Pathway?

The Green List offers unparalleled clarity and certainty for skilled migrants aiming for permanent life in New Zealand. It is the government's strongest commitment to attracting your skill set.

If your skills match the roles on either Tier 1 or Tier 2, your path to Aotearoa is clearer than ever.

We specialize in turning Green List eligibility into a successful New Zealand residence visa.

Let us confirm your eligibility and fast-track your application.

Book a consultation with our licensed adviser today.