The Green List - New Zealand

Your pathway to New Zealand residency

The New Zealand Green List is an official immigration framework that identifies occupations in long-term and critical shortage across the country.Roles on the Green List are prioritised for residence pathways, helping skilled migrants secure job opportunities and plan a clearer, faster route to permanent residency in New Zealand.The list is designed to support New Zealand’s economic growth by attracting global talent in healthcare, engineering, construction, education, technology, and other essential sectors.

What is the New Zealand green list?

New Zealand Green List is a government-defined list of high-demand occupations that are eligible for streamlined residence pathways. To be eligible, you must have employment or a job offer from an accredited employer. Each occupation on the Green List is classified using an ANZSCO code, which helps determine eligibility for specific residence pathways. If your role appears on the Green List and you meet the qualification, registration, and employment requirements, you may be able to apply for residence either immediately or after working in New Zealand for a set period, as outlined in work visa and residence options for skilled professionals. To determine if your qualifications meet the listed requirements, refer to official resources and follow the process outlined by New Zealand immigration authorities.

How long is the green list valid for?

The Green List does not have a fixed expiry date by the New Zealand Government. Occupations may be added, removed, or adjusted based on labour market needs, workforce shortages, and economic priorities. Applicants should always check the latest version of the Green List at the time of their visa or residence application and consider broader career relocation resources for countries like New Zealand, Australia, and Canada.

‍Note: The Green List is frequently updated to reflect the evolving New Zealand job market and its skill shortages. Always refer to the most recent version before applying.

What is Straight to Residence? (Tier 1)

Straight to Residence is the fastest Green List pathway.
If your occupation is listed under Tier 1, you may be eligible to apply for residence immediately after receiving a qualifying job offer from an accredited New Zealand employer, provided all skill, salary, and registration requirements are met.This pathway is designed for roles with critical and long-term shortages.

What is Work to Residence? (Tier 2)

Work to Residence is a staged pathway for occupations listed under Tier 2 of the Green List.
Applicants must first work in New Zealand in an eligible Green List role—typically for 24 months—before becoming eligible to apply for residence.This pathway supports roles where New Zealand has ongoing demand but requires demonstrated local work experience before granting residency.

Job Search Strategies

Finding a job in New Zealand can be a challenging but rewarding experience, especially if you use AI job matching to find overseas immigration jobs faster. To increase your chances of success, it’s essential to have a well-planned job search strategy, supported by a career relocation and living abroad platform. This includes tailoring your CV and cover letter to the New Zealand job market, utilizing online job boards and recruitment agencies, and networking with professionals in your field. Many occupations on the Green List, such as electronic engineering technicians and ICT project managers, are in high demand, and having the right skills and qualifications can give you a competitive edge, especially when combined with top relocation job platforms for moving your career abroad. You can also use the Green List tool to search for jobs by industry, role, or keyword, and apply filters to narrow down your search, or explore curated New Zealand immigration jobs with clear visa pathways. Additionally, consider working with a recruitment agency or overseas career advisor to help you navigate the job market and find the right opportunity.

Salary and Benefits

Salaries in New Zealand are competitive, and many employers offer a range of benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid leave. The minimum qualifications and experience required for Green List occupations can vary, but many roles offer higher salaries and better benefits than similar positions in other countries. For example, a software engineer in New Zealand can earn a salary ranging from $80,000 to over $150,000 per year, depending on experience and qualifications, and there are dedicated resources on becoming a software engineer in New Zealand, including industry insights and career pathways. Additionally, many employers offer flexible working arrangements, professional development opportunities, and a healthy work-life balance, making New Zealand an attractive destination for professionals seeking a better quality of life, provided you understand the cost of living in New Zealand including salaries, rent, and expenses.

Work-Life Balance in New Zealand

New Zealand is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, outdoor lifestyle, and friendly culture, making it an ideal destination for individuals seeking a better work-life balance compared with global cost of living and lifestyle in other countries. With its flexible working arrangements, generous paid leave, and emphasis on work-life balance, New Zealand offers a unique opportunity to pursue your career goals while also enjoying a high quality of life. Many Green List occupations, such as teaching and healthcare, offer regular working hours, allowing you to enjoy your free time and pursue your hobbies and interests. Whether you’re interested in hiking, surfing, or simply spending time with family and friends, New Zealand has something to offer, especially when you tap into top websites for expats and relocation resources. From the beautiful beaches and forests to the vibrant cities and cultural events, New Zealand is a country that truly has it all.

Settlement and Integration

Settling into a new country can be a challenging experience, but New Zealand has a range of resources and services to help you integrate into the community, many of which are outlined in guides for expats moving to New Zealand. From language classes and cultural orientation programs to job search assistance and settlement services, there are many organizations and initiatives available to support you, alongside tools like a New Zealand cost of living guide and relocation calculators. Many employers also offer relocation assistance and support to help you settle into your new role and get established in the country. Additionally, New Zealand has a strong focus on diversity and inclusion, with many community groups and cultural events celebrating the country’s multicultural heritage. With its friendly and welcoming culture, New Zealand is an easy country to make friends and build a new life, and many people find that they quickly feel at home.