NZ Green List Residence Pathway 2026

New Zealand's Green List is one of the most direct routes to permanent residence available under the current immigration system. If your occupation is on the list, you can bypass the points-based Skilled Migrant Category entirely and apply for residence through a simpler, faster pathway. This guide explains how both tiers work, who qualifies, and how to apply in 2026.

What Is the Green List?

The Green List is a list of occupations that New Zealand has identified as critically needed. Workers in these roles can access residence without needing to sit the Skilled Migrant Category points assessment. There are two tiers:

• Tier 1 — Straight to Residence: You can apply for a resident visa immediately, without needing to first work in New Zealand on a temporary visa.
• Tier 2 — Work to Residence: You must work in NZ in the qualifying occupation for 24 months before you can apply for residence.

The full occupation list, including ANZSCO codes and wage requirements, is on the Green List occupations page.

Tier 1: Straight to Residence

Tier 1 covers highly specialist roles where New Zealand has an acute shortage. Examples include certain medical specialists, senior engineers, and other highly skilled professionals.

Requirements

To apply for straight-to-residence under Tier 1:

1. Job offer — You must have a genuine, current job offer from an accredited employer in New Zealand
2. Occupation match — The role must be a Tier 1 Green List occupation (verified by ANZSCO code)
3. Wage threshold — Your pay must meet or exceed the specified threshold for the occupation
4. Character and health — Standard NZ residence requirements apply
5. English language — Minimum English requirements must be met (varies by occupation)

Once approved, you receive a resident visa directly — no temporary work visa required first. You can bring your partner and dependent children.

Tier 2: Work to Residence

Tier 2 covers a broader range of skilled occupations including many healthcare, construction, IT, and trade roles.

Requirements

1. AEWV first — You must enter NZ on an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) in the qualifying occupation
2. Accredited employer — Your employer must be accredited with Immigration New Zealand
3. 24 months employment — You must work in the qualifying role for 24 months (continuous employment in the same or similar occupation)
4. Wage threshold — Your pay must meet the occupation-specific Green List wage requirement throughout the 24-month period
5. Residence application — After 24 months, you apply for a resident visa

The 24 months does not need to be with the same employer, but your employment must remain in a qualifying Tier 2 occupation throughout.

Wage Requirements

Each Green List occupation has a specific wage threshold that is generally higher than the standard AEWV median wage. You must meet the wage for your specific ANZSCO occupation code — not just the general median wage. Check the current thresholds on the ANZSCO skill levels and Green List guide.

How to Apply: Step by Step

For Tier 1 (Straight to Residence)

1. Secure a job offer from a New Zealand accredited employer in a Tier 1 occupation
2. Employer completes a Job Check for your role (ensures it's genuine and meets the wage)
3. You apply for a Green List straight-to-residence visa online via Immigration New Zealand
4. Processing: approximately 6–10 months for residence applications
5. On approval, you receive a resident visa valid for 24 months, renewable as a permanent resident visa after meeting residency requirements

For Tier 2 (Work to Residence)

1. Secure a job offer from a New Zealand accredited employer in a Tier 2 occupation
2. Employer completes accreditation (if not already) and a Job Check
3. You apply for an AEWV — see the AEWV guide
4. Work in the qualifying occupation in NZ for 24 months
5. Apply for a Green List work-to-residence visa (resident visa)
6. Processing: approximately 6–10 months

Fees

Employer costs (Job Check: NZ$610, accreditation: NZ$740–$1,220) are typically paid by the employer.

Green List vs Skilled Migrant Category

The Green List pathway is generally faster and less complex than the Skilled Migrant Category for those whose occupation is on the list.

Planning Your Pathway

If your occupation is on the Green List, the recommended approach is:

1. Confirm your ANZSCO code and which tier your occupation falls under
2. Ensure any job offer meets the Green List wage threshold (not just the median wage)
3. For Tier 2: start the 24-month clock as soon as you arrive and begin work
4. For Tier 1: you can apply for residence before arriving or upon arrival
5. Speak to a licensed immigration adviser to confirm your eligibility before you commit — details matter

See also:

• Full Green List occupation list
• AEWV guide
• New residence pathways 2026

For advice on your specific occupation and situation, consult a licensed immigration adviser.