Information reviewed: 18 October 2026 | Refer to Immigration New Zealand for current requirements.
New Zealand has multiple skilled residence pathways. The correct route depends on occupation, accredited employment, qualification, registration, remuneration and qualifying New Zealand work history.
Explore the eligibility requirements, evidence to prepare, application stages and related New Zealand visa options below. Individual circumstances and the latest government instructions determine the outcome.
Visa focusNew Zealand
Page typeEligibility guide
RequirementsVisa-specific
Last review18 Oct 2026
New Zealand Skilled Residence Pathways: overview
New Zealand has multiple skilled residence pathways. The correct route depends on occupation, accredited employment, qualification, registration, remuneration and qualifying New Zealand work history.
No single residence route fits every skilled worker. Temporary work permission does not itself guarantee future residence.
Eligibility and important requirements
Review these key conditions before choosing this pathway:
Straight to Residence: Generally for eligible Green List Tier 1 roles meeting the relevant criteria.
Work to Residence: Generally for eligible Green List Tier 2 roles after qualifying New Zealand work.
Skilled Migrant Category: A separate points-based skilled residence pathway with its own eligibility rules.
Sector-specific routes: Some care workforce and transport roles have separate residence pathways and conditions.
Application process: step by step
Identify your occupation: Match the actual job to the correct occupation and applicable visa criteria.
Check the employer: Verify accredited employment requirements for the pathway.
Assess qualifications and work: Review registration, IQA, salary, work experience and other relevant evidence.
Compare timing: Identify whether a direct or work-first residence pathway may be appropriate.
Documents and evidence checklist
Valid passport and identity details.
Documents supporting the particular eligibility requirements listed above.
Employment, qualification or relationship records, where relevant.
Medical, police, English language or financial evidence, where required.
Certified translations and additional supporting evidence, where applicable.
This is an initial checklist, not an exhaustive or universal list. The official application instructions take precedence.
Fees, processing times and visa conditions
Government fees, processing times and visa conditions can change. Confirm the current amounts and conditions on the official guidance for New Zealand Skilled Residence Pathways before applying. Other charges may apply for medical checks, translations, professional registration or qualification assessments.
Our team can help organise an initial eligibility screening, identify the relevant visa pathway, review document readiness and explain the next steps. Where regulated immigration advice is required, it must be provided by an appropriately licensed or exempt adviser.
Discuss your New Zealand visa options
Share your occupation, qualifications, intended visa and relevant supporting information.
