Work Visa NZ: Green List Jobs, Pathways to Residence & How BRIGENAI Helps

New Zealand’s doors are open to skilled professionals willing to fill critical gaps in health, engineering, ICT, construction, and trades. If you’re exploring a work visa NZ pathway, this guide breaks down everything from the Green List to Accredited Employer requirements—and shows you exactly how to move from job offer to resident status.

Quick answer: Can I get a work visa for New Zealand.

Yes. Skilled professionals can relocate to New Zealand on an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) and then progress to residence via the Green List or Skilled Migrant pathways. The system is designed to attract talent the country genuinely needs while offering clear routes to permanent settlement.

Most skilled workers start with an AEWV linked to a job offer from an accredited employer. Visa validity typically ranges from 7 months to 5 years depending on your role, salary, and application timing.

Three main work visa NZ paths:

• Green List Skilled Residence (Tier 1 & Tier 2): Fast-track pathway to residence for occupations on shortage lists in New Zealand
• Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa: Points-based residence pathway for skilled workers meeting income and experience thresholds
• Other temporary work visas: New Zealand offers various work visa types, including Post-Study, Working Holiday, and Partner Visas, each with specific criteria.
  • Post-Study Work Visa: Allows graduates to work in New Zealand after completing their studies.
  • Working Holiday Visa: Allows individuals aged 18-30 (or 35 for certain countries) to work in New Zealand primarily for travel purposes.
  • Partner Visas: Allow partners of work visa holders to apply for a work visa if they are in a genuine relationship.

BRIGENAI helps candidates outside New Zealand find visa-suitable roles and prepare documentation for AEWV and residency applications. We don’t provide legal immigration advice—but we do help you get job-ready and application-ready before you engage licensed advisers.

Understanding Work Visas in New Zealand

New Zealand consistently ranks among the world’s most liveable countries. For global talent in 2024–2025, the appeal is clear: high quality of life, an English-speaking work environment, strong labour protections, and genuine demand for skilled workers across multiple sectors including health, engineering, ICT, construction, and trades.

Key visa types for working in New Zealand:

• Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV): The primary temporary work visa for skilled migrants with a job offer from an Immigration New Zealand-accredited employer
• Green List Straight to Residence: For Tier 1 occupations—apply for residence immediately with a qualifying job offer
• Green List Work to Residence: For Tier 2 occupations—apply for residence after 2 years of qualifying NZ work experience
• Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa: Points-based residence pathway being reformed for August 2026 with new trades and experience pathways
• Post-Study Work Visa: Up to 3 years of open work rights based on your New Zealand qualification level

Most skilled migrants first enter on an AEWV and then transition to residence using Green List or Skilled Migrant pathways once they meet wage, skills, and experience thresholds.

Many immigration thresholds are expressed as multiples of the New Zealand median wage. This figure is reviewed annually—check the current rate on Immigration New Zealand’s website before you apply, as it directly affects your eligibility.

Eligibility Criteria for a Work Visa

To qualify for a work visa in New Zealand, you must meet a set of specific requirements based on your occupation, experience, and the type of visa you’re applying for. If your job is listed on the Green List, you may be eligible for either a Straight to Residence visa (Tier 1) or a Work to Residence visa (Tier 2), depending on your role.

Eligibility for Tier 1

• Job Offer: Must have a job offer from an accredited employer in a Tier 1 occupation.
• Qualifications: Meet all required qualifications for the role.
• Professional Registration: Hold any necessary professional registration.
• Relevant Experience: Have the relevant experience for your role.
• Immediate Residence: This pathway allows you to apply for residence immediately.

Eligibility for Tier 2

• Job Offer: Must have a job offer from an accredited employer in a Tier 2 occupation.
• NZ Work Experience: Work in New Zealand for at least 2 years in that role before applying for residence.
• Maintain Registration: Maintain your registration (if required) during this period.
• Wage Thresholds: Meet wage thresholds throughout your employment.
• Relevant Experience: Ensure your experience aligns with the Green List requirements.

It’s essential to check the current Green List to see if your occupation is included and to confirm the specific requirements for your job. The list is updated regularly to reflect New Zealand’s changing workforce needs, so staying informed is crucial. Always verify that your employer is accredited and that you meet all qualifications, experience, and registration requirements before you apply.

Required Documents for a Work Visa Application

When you apply for a work visa in New Zealand, you’ll need to provide a range of documents to support your application. These documents help Immigration New Zealand verify your eligibility for either a Straight to Residence visa or a Work to Residence visa.

Proof of Identity

• Valid passport
• Recent passport-sized photographs

Job Offer Documentation

• Signed employment contract or job offer letter from an accredited employer
• Details of the role, salary, and working conditions

Qualification and Registration Evidence

• Degree certificates and academic transcripts
• Professional registration or licensing documents (if required for your occupation)
• NZQA assessment (if applicable)

Health and Character Documents

• Medical examination results (from an approved panel physician)
• Police certificates from every country you’ve lived in for 12+ months

English Language Proof

• English language test results (IELTS, PTE, TOEFL) if required

Once you have gathered the necessary documents, you can explore the Green List pathway to residence. The next section explains how the Green List works and how it can fast-track your journey to becoming a New Zealand resident.

New Zealand Green List: Fast-Track Pathway to Residence

The Green List is New Zealand’s official list of high-demand skilled occupations divided into Tier 1 (Straight to Residence) and Tier 2 (Work to Residence). If your occupation appears here and you have an offer from an Accredited Employer, you may be eligible for an accelerated pathway to residence.

What you need to know about the Green List:

• Tier 1 occupations allow eligible candidates to apply for residence immediately upon securing a qualifying role—either from overseas or while in New Zealand
• Tier 2 occupations require at least 24 months of relevant work experience in New Zealand before you can apply for residence
• The list is regularly updated by Immigration New Zealand based on labour market needs—occupations can be added or removed
• Always check the current version before making application decisions

Key Green List sectors:

Tier 1 & Tier 2 Green List Occupations

Understanding the difference between Tier 1 and Tier 2 is critical for planning your timeline. Tier 1 means you can apply for residence right away. Tier 2 means you must first work in New Zealand for at least 2 years before becoming eligible.

How Tier 1 Works

Tier 1 roles allow applicants to apply directly for residence while onshore or offshore. You need a qualifying job offer with an Accredited Employer, must meet qualification and registration requirements, and satisfy wage thresholds.

Tier 1 occupation examples:

• Chemical engineer
• Software engineer
• Civil engineer
• General practitioner
• Psychiatrist
• Veterinarian
• Chief information officer
• Cardiothoracic surgeon
• Surveyor

How Tier 2 Works

Tier 2 occupations require at least 24 months of full-time, relevant work experience in New Zealand before you can lodge a residence application. This experience must be on an acceptable work visa (typically AEWV), meeting wage thresholds and any professional registration requirements.

Tier 2 occupation examples:

• Registered nurse (including specialties: aged care, mental health, perioperative)
• Midwife
• Audiologist
• Occupational therapist
• Early childhood teacher
• Secondary school teacher (with NZ registration)
• Automotive electrician
• Diesel motor mechanic
• Plumber

Important eligibility factors for both tiers:

• Salary must meet or exceed specified thresholds (often linked to median wage)
• Qualifications must align with NZQF levels or equivalent (e.g., Washington/Sydney Accord for engineering)
• Professional registration may be required (e.g., Medical Council of New Zealand, Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand, Engineering New Zealand)

Green List Skilled Residence Visas

The Green List Skilled Residence category is designed for people whose occupation is on the Green List and who hold—or have been offered—a role with a New Zealand Accredited Employer. This pathway streamlines the journey from temporary worker to resident for occupations the country critically needs.

General Eligibility Criteria

• Aged under 56 years at time of application
• Meet English language requirements for principal applicant, partner, and dependent children (where applicable)
• Meet health and character requirements
• Hold or have been offered a qualifying job with an Accredited Employer

Family Inclusion

Partners and dependent children up to 24 years can usually be included in the residence application. You must evidence relationship stability and dependency through documentation such as joint accounts, shared tenancy, or birth certificates.

Qualification Requirements

Requirements differ by occupation. Engineering roles may require Washington or Sydney Accord-accredited degrees. Clinical roles typically require NZ professional registration before you can work or apply for residence.

Tier 1 Green List: Straight to Residence Pathway

Tier 1 occupations let eligible candidates apply directly for residence as soon as they secure a qualifying role with an Accredited Employer. You can apply from overseas or while already in New Zealand on another visa.

Eligibility Requirements

• Occupation must be on Tier 1 of the Green List
• Job offer must meet minimum pay rate or salary thresholds
• Applicant must hold specified qualifications and any required registration
• Employment must be at least 30 hours per week and ongoing

Tier 1 job examples:

Steps for Overseas Applicants

1. Verify your occupation appears on Tier 1 of the current Green List.
2. Secure a job offer from an Immigration New Zealand Accredited Employer.
3. Gather qualification certificates, registration documents, and evidence of experience.
4. Apply for the Straight to Residence visa.
5. Move to New Zealand with your partner and children once approved.

Tier 2 Green List: Work to Residence Pathway

Tier 2 occupations require at least 24 months of full-time, relevant work experience in New Zealand before you can lodge a residence application. The experience clock often starts from 29 September 2021 for some policies.

Key Requirements

• 24 months of qualifying work must be on an acceptable work visa (usually AEWV)
• You must meet wage thresholds throughout the period
• Professional registration or licensing must be maintained
• Work must be in the same or closely related Green List occupation

Tier 2 job examples:

• Midwife
• Audiologist
• Occupational therapist
• Registered nurse (aged care, mental health, perioperative specialties)
• Early childhood teacher
• Automotive electrician
• Diesel motor mechanic

Typical Timeline

1. Obtain AEWV with a job offer from an Accredited Employer.
2. Work 24 months in a Tier 2 role meeting all conditions.
3. Lodge Work to Residence visa application.
4. Include partner and children once residence is granted.

Even if a role is not on the Green List, some workers may still gain residence under the Skilled Migrant Category if they meet points and salary thresholds—for example, being paid at least twice the median wage.

Timeline & Costs for Green List Residence Applications

Processing times and costs change periodically, so budget realistically and allow several months for your application to be assessed.

Current fee guidance (2024–2025):

• Green List Resident Visa application fee: approximately NZD $6,450 per family (main applicant plus partner and dependent children)
• This fee is subject to change—always verify on the official Immigration New Zealand website

Additional costs to budget for:

• Immigration levy (if applicable)
• Medical examinations for all applicants
• Police certificates from every country you’ve lived in for 12+ months
• English language tests (IELTS, PTE, TOEFL)
• Document translation and certification
• Credential assessment fees (NZQA or professional bodies)

Processing time ranges:

• Several weeks for straightforward applications with complete documentation
• Several months for complex cases, missing information, or high workload periods

Strategies to minimise delays:

• Submit complete documentation from the start
• Use correct application forms and pay the right fees
• Respond quickly to requests for further information
• Double-check that your job offer details and employer accreditation are accurate and current

Green List Pathway to Residence: Step‑by‑Step

The Green List pathway is a structured journey from job search to residence. BRIGENAI supports users especially with the early stages—finding a role and matching with an employer who can sponsor your visa.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Confirm your occupation is on the Green List: Search by job title, ANZSCO code, or sector on the official Immigration NZ site.
2. Check Tier 1 or Tier 2 requirements: Determine whether you can apply immediately or need 24 months NZ experience.
3. Secure an offer from an Accredited Employer: This is the most critical step—no valid job offer, no visa.
4. Apply for AEWV if needed: For Tier 2 roles, you’ll work on this visa while accumulating experience.
5. Complete required work experience: For Tier 2, ensure 24 months of continuous, relevant work.
6. Apply for residence: Lodge your Green List Skilled Residence application.

Job Offer Requirements

• Must be from an Immigration New Zealand Accredited Employer
• Must meet wage thresholds (often at or above median wage, or higher for specific roles)
• Must be at least 30 hours per week
• Contract terms must comply with NZ employment law

For Tier 2 roles, work experience counting often begins on or after 29 September 2021. Check current policy for exact dates.

Securing a Job Offer from an Accredited Employer

An Accredited Employer is one that Immigration New Zealand has approved to hire workers on the AEWV. These employers have demonstrated they meet compliance and employment standards, making them eligible to support migrant workers.

How to verify employer accreditation:

• Ask the employer directly for their accreditation number
• Request a copy of their accreditation confirmation letter
• The accreditation is verified during the AEWV application process

How BRIGENAI helps:

BRIGENAI’s platform screens and prioritises New Zealand employers who are accredited or visa-supportive. This helps you avoid wasting time on job offers that cannot be used for AEWV or Green List pathways.

Practical job search strategies:

• Use NZ-specific job boards (Seek NZ, Trade Me Jobs, Immigration NZ job listings)
• Network via LinkedIn and industry associations relevant to your profession
• Target large employers already known for international recruitment: District Health Boards, major infrastructure companies, established tech firms
• Engage recruitment agencies specialising in skilled migrant placements

A valid, compliant job offer from an Accredited Employer is the most critical starting point for any work visa NZ strategy.

Getting Relevant NZ Work Experience for Tier 2 Roles

Tier 2 applicants must accumulate 24 months of full-time work in New Zealand in a qualifying occupation, at or above the required pay rate, and under an acceptable work visa.

Ensuring your experience counts:

• Keep all employment contracts and payslips as evidence
• Maintain consistent job titles that align with the Green List entry
• Never drop below required wage thresholds during the qualifying period
• Document your duties so they align with the ANZSCO description for your occupation

What doesn’t count:

• Periods of unpaid leave
• Time spent on visitor or student visas (unless specifically approved)
• Work in unrelated occupations

Career progression tip:
You can move between employers during your 24 months as long as the role remains in the same Tier 2 Green List occupation and your new employer is accredited and meets pay and conditions rules. This flexibility means you’re not locked into a single employer.

Green List Roles: Examples & How to Check Your Occupation

The Green List is detailed and occupation-specific. Each entry lists its Tier, sector, qualification and registration requirements, and sometimes minimum pay rates.

How to Use the Official Green List Search Tool

1. Go to Immigration New Zealand’s Green List page.
2. Search by job title, ANZSCO code, or sector.
3. Verify which Tier your occupation falls under.
4. Check qualification and registration notes specific to your role.
5. Confirm applicable pay thresholds.

Sample roles across sectors:

Qualifications are typically benchmarked against the New Zealand Qualifications Framework (NZQF). Foreign degrees may require assessment by NZQA or reliance on Washington/Sydney Accord recognition for engineering and related fields.

Always confirm the latest status on the official Immigration New Zealand site before making decisions.

Sample Tier 2 Health, Education & Trade Roles

This is a non-exhaustive illustration of Tier 2 occupations that typically lead to Work to Residence after 24 months in New Zealand.

Tier 2 examples:

• Registered nurse (aged care, mental health, perioperative): Health and social services sector; requires Nursing Council registration; eligible for residence after 2 years
• Midwife: Health sector; Midwifery Council registration required
• Medical radiation technologist: Health sector; Medical Radiation Technologists Board registration
• Sonographer: Health sector; relevant NZQA qualification and registration
• Occupational therapist: Health and social services; Occupational Therapy Board registration
• Early childhood teacher: Education sector; Teaching Council registration required
• Automotive electrician: Trades sector; relevant trade qualification
• Diesel motor mechanic: Trades sector; NZ trade qualification

While these roles are in demand, applicants must still meet professional registration, licensing, and minimum pay requirements for both AEWV and residence.

Sample Tier 1 Engineering, ICT & Science Roles

Tier 1 roles offer Straight to Residence potential for suitably qualified candidates with a job offer from an Accredited Employer.

Tier 1 examples:

• Civil engineer: Washington Accord degree required; infrastructure sector priority
• Mechanical engineer: Recognised engineering qualification; manufacturing and primary industries
• Electrical engineer: Electronics and telecommunications sectors
• Telecommunications network engineer: ICT sector; recognised qualification
• Software engineer: Tech sector; Washington/Sydney Accord or equivalent qualification
• ICT security specialist: Growing demand in public and private sectors
• Chief information officer: Senior leadership role; strategic ICT experience
• Environmental research scientist: Primary industries and science sectors

Many of these roles are in ICT, electronics, telecommunications, engineering, and primary industries—sectors New Zealand prioritises for long-term economic growth.

How BRIGENAI Supports Your New Zealand Work & Residence Journey

BRIGENAI is a digital platform specialising in helping talent from outside New Zealand, Australia, Singapore, and Hong Kong relocate into APAC markets. Our focus is on connecting you with visa-friendly roles and providing realistic relocation planning—not just job listings.

Core tools for work visa NZ seekers:

• AI-powered job matching: Prioritises accredited and visa-supportive employers so you don’t waste time on dead-end applications
• Salary and cost-of-living calculators: Compare what you’ll earn against expenses in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and other NZ cities
• Access to human advisors: Connect with career and relocation experts familiar with New Zealand immigration settings
• Relocation planning tools: Housing guidance, insurance options, tax information, and settlement support

What we do and don’t do:

BRIGENAI does not replace licensed immigration advisers or lawyers. What we do is help you prepare for consultations by organising documents, clarifying likely visa pathways, and stress-testing your plans against wage and skill thresholds before you spend money on formal applications.

Practical examples:

• Helping a software engineer match with Tier 1 employers in Wellington or Auckland
• Supporting a registered nurse to map out the 24-month Tier 2 Work to Residence timeline
• Guiding an international student on how post-study work can lead into AEWV and then Green List or Skilled Migrant residence

Unlike generic job boards or static immigration information sites, BRIGENAI provides integrated relocation tools and verified human support throughout your journey.

Planning Your Move: Next Steps for a Work Visa NZ

The journey from where you are now to working in New Zealand follows a clear path: research your occupation, confirm eligibility, plan finances and timelines, and strategically apply for roles with Accredited Employers.

Your action checklist:

• [ ] Confirm if your role is on the Green List (search by ANZSCO code or job title)
• [ ] Compare Tier 1 vs Tier 2 implications for your timeline
• [ ] Assess whether Skilled Migrant Category might be a backup pathway
• [ ] Prepare English tests (IELTS, PTE) and credential assessments
• [ ] Line up savings for visa fees (NZD $6,450+ for family applications) and relocation costs
• [ ] Research professional registration requirements for your occupation

Build a complete relocation plan:

Don’t underestimate the cost of settling in. Use tools like BRIGENAI’s cost-of-living and salary benchmarks to plan for housing, schooling (if you have children), healthcare, and tax obligations before you arrive.

Ready to take the first step?

Sign up to BRIGENAI for free starter credits, upload your CV, and get an initial AI-driven assessment of your New Zealand work and residence options. You’ll have a clearer picture of your pathway before you begin formal visa applications—and you’ll know exactly which employers to target.

Your New Zealand career starts with the right job match. Let’s find it together.

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