Understand New Zealand’s Green List

Introduction

The Green List is a list of occupations in high demand in New Zealand, signifying the government’s recognition of the need for skilled workers in specific fields to support the country’s economic and social development.

To be eligible for residency under the Green List, individuals must work in a profession listed on the Green List and meet specific qualifications, registration, and work experience criteria.is divided into Tier 1 (Straight to Residence) and Tier 2 (Work to Residence), each offering different pathways to residence based on the occupation.

Tier 1: Straight to Residence

Tier 1 occupations are those for which New Zealand has an acute shortage of skilled workers. Migrants working in these occupations may be eligible for a Straight to Residence visa, allowing them to apply for residency immediately upon meeting specific criteria, such as having the qualifications, registration, or experience required for the role. This tier includes various professions, from healthcare specialists to engineers and IT professionals.

Tier 2: Work to Residence

Tier 2 covers occupations also in demand but to a lesser extent than those in Tier 1. Migrants in these roles may be eligible for a Work to Residence visa, which means they can apply for residency after working in New Zealand for two years, provided they meet the requisite health, character, and English language requirements, among other specific conditions related to their occupation.

Recent Updates to the Green List

In early 2024, New Zealand announced the addition of 17 new roles to the Green List, reflecting the evolving needs of its economy and labour market. These additions span a range of industries, from aviation and marine engineering to ICT and skilled trades. The update underscores New Zealand’s commitment to attracting global talent in sectors critical to its growth and development.

Examples of New Additions

• Tier 1 (Straight to Residence): This category includes highly specialized roles such as Aviation Engineers (covering Avionics, Aeronautical, and Aerospace Engineers), naval architects, and ICT Database and System Administrators, indicating a targeted approach to filling critical gaps in these high-tech fields.
• Tier 2 (Work to Residence): Features a variety of skilled trades and technical roles, including Road Roller Operators, Metal Fabricators, and Welders, reflecting the ongoing demand for skilled labour in construction, manufacturing, and infrastructure projects.

Update April 7th,2024: Changes to Work to Residence and Occupations on the Green List

On April 7th, 2024, the New Zealand Government implemented significant changes to the Green List, impacting both the Work to Residence visa category and the list of eligible occupations. These updates are crucial for individuals planning to work and reside in New Zealand, especially those in the transport sector and other specified industries.

Additionally, on April 7th, 2024, the Green List saw the addition of six new roles, encompassing nine ANZSCO occupations. These roles include both Straight to Residence and Work to Residence categories, covering professions such as Aviation Engineer, Naval Architect, and Corrections Officer.

Unfortunately, several previously announced roles will not be added to the Green List, and plans to include certain occupations under the Construction and Infrastructure Sector Agreement have been halted.

For further details on these updates and their implications for immigration to New Zealand, please refer to our comprehensive news article here.

Eligibility and Application Process

To be eligible for residency under the Green List, applicants must work in an occupation listed on the Green List and meet specific qualifications, registration, and experience requirements.

These criteria ensure migrants possess the skills and competencies necessary to contribute effectively to New Zealand’s workforce. Additionally, applicants must satisfy health, character, and English language standards, aligning with New Zealand’s broader immigration requirements.

The Straight to Residence and Work to Residence visa application process involves several steps, from assessing eligibility and gathering the necessary documentation to applying through Immigration New Zealand’s online portal. Prospective applicants are encouraged to consult the official Immigration New Zealand website or seek advice from registered immigration consultants to navigate the process successfully

The Impact of the Green List

The Green List plays a crucial role in New Zealand’s immigration strategy. It facilitates the entry and integration of skilled workers into the economy, helping to address immediate and long-term skill shortages. For migrants, the list offers a clear pathway to residency, providing stability and opportunities for growth in a country known for its high quality of life, dynamic economy, and inclusive society.

The Green List facilitates employers’ recruitment of international talent, ensuring that industries experiencing labour shortages can readily access the skilled workforce necessary for their success. This, in turn, supports New Zealand’s economic resilience and competitiveness on the global stage.

Below is the detailed list of occupations on the Green List, updated on 04 March 2024.

Tier 1 Occupations (Eligible for Straight to Residence)

Tier 2 Occupations (Eligible for Work to Residence)

Note: The updated date is 03 March ’24; the above details can change based on government decisions. For the most current information and a detailed list of occupations on the Green List, visit Immigration New Zealand’s official website​​.

Reference – https://www.immigration.govt.nz/