MAKING SENSE OF NEW ZEALAND’S GREEN LIST OPPORTUNITY
- Joice M. Jose MSW, GDTAS, RMA, NZLIA
- Jun 23
- 2 min read
Updated: 1 day ago
Thinking about making a move to New Zealand as a skilled worker? The Green List is at the center of the country's push to welcome top talent people. For many, it's the golden ticket to residency, fast-tracked and with less red tape. Whether you’re an engineer, tradie, or healthcare professional, understanding this pathway puts you a step ahead. Here’s what you need to know and how you can make it work for you.
What is the Green List and Why Does it Matter?
The Green List is New Zealand's answer to its ongoing skills shortage. It’s a curated list of jobs where the country urgently needs skilled people. If your occupation is on this list, and you meet the right criteria, you can apply for residency in one of two ways:
Straight to Residence: If your role is Tier 1, you can apply for permanent residency right out of the gate after securing a job offer from an accredited employer.
Work to Residence: For Tier 2 roles, you need to work in your eligible job for two years in New Zealand before applying for residency.
This split keeps things fair and matches New Zealand’s real-world needs. The list is refreshed regularly, so it reflects what’s happening across sectors like healthcare, IT, engineering, and the trades.
Who Can Apply? Eligibility and New Occupations for 2025
For 2025, the Green List is expanding, bringing new roles into the mix. Some recently added jobs include:
Welder
Metal Fabricator
Paving Plant Operator
Vehicle Painter
Fitter and Turner
Most that succeed with Green List applications have clear evidence of prior work experience, solid English language skills, and a role that matches up exactly with the list description.
Key Requirements
The basics you need to tick off include:
Passing health and character checks (those police and medical reports matter)
Having the right qualifications and experience for your nominated occupation
Holding an offer from a New Zealand-accredited employer
Meeting the minimum salary (this can shift—always double check)
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
Applying with a job title that doesn’t match the official Green List occupation
Not providing proof your qualifications meet New Zealand standards
Missing employer accreditation paperwork
Forgetting to include supporting documents for partners or kids
The Green List pathway gives skilled workers a clear shot at residency in New Zealand—quick for some, and realistic with a little patience for others. It’s designed for people who bring real value to New Zealand’s workforce and want to settle for the long run.
Why not see if you’re eligible today?
We're here to help! If you want to seek any professional assistance don't hesitate to reach out to the Fortune Immigration and Education team, led by Joice M. Jose, Australian Registered Migration Agent (MARN:2318264) and New Zealand Licensed Immigration Adviser (NZLIA # 201100295).
Contact us today:
Phone/Mobile/WhatsApp/Botim: +61 432 847 291
Disclaimer: This article is valid only at the time of initial publication and is subject to change. The content does not constitute legal advice or recommendations and should not be relied upon as such. Always seek legal and professional immigration or education advice as your situation may differ from the general guidelines provided.
