New Zealand’s Straight to Residency program offers a direct pathway to permanent residency for professionals whose occupations are listed on the Green List Tier 1.Immigration New Zealand This initiative is designed to attract skilled individuals to fill critical roles across various sectors, ensuring that New Zealand’s workforce remains robust and capable of meeting current and future demands.
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Eligibility Criteria:
To qualify for the Straight to Residency Visa, applicants must:
- Occupation: Secure a job offer in a Tier 1 occupation listed on New Zealand’s Green List. These roles span sectors such as healthcare, engineering, and information technology. Immigration New Zealand
- Employment Conditions: The job offer must be from an accredited employer, and the position should be either permanent or for a fixed term of at least 12 months. Immigration New Zealand
- Salary Requirements: Meet or exceed the median wage threshold, which is currently NZD $31.61 per hour as of 2023. Immigration New Zealand
- Age Limit: Be aged 55 or younger at the time of application. Government of New Zealand
- English Language Proficiency: Demonstrate English language proficiency as required by Immigration New Zealand. https://mygrate.me
- Health and Character: Meet health and character requirements, including providing medical and police certificates. Immigration New Zealand
Application Process:
- Secure Employment: Obtain a job offer from an accredited employer in a Tier 1 Green List occupation.
- Prepare Documentation: Gather necessary documents, including proof of qualifications, work experience, English language proficiency, and health and character certificates.
- Submit Application: Lodge your residency application with Immigration New Zealand, ensuring all required information and documentation are provided.
- Await Decision: Processing times can vary, but applications are typically processed within four months. Reddit
- Receive Residency: Upon approval, you and your family can enjoy the benefits of permanent residency in New Zealand.
Benefits of the Program:
- Immediate Residency: Eligible professionals can transition directly to permanent residency without a prolonged temporary visa period.
- Family Inclusion: Applicants can include close family members in their residency application, allowing families to relocate together. Government of New Zealand
- Access to Services: Permanent residents enjoy access to New Zealand’s public healthcare and education systems.
- High Quality of Life: New Zealand offers a safe environment, diverse natural landscapes, and a strong emphasis on work-life balance.
Green List Tier 1 Occupations:
The Green List identifies occupations that are in high demand in New Zealand. Professionals in these roles are eligible for the Straight to Residency pathway. Some of the key Tier 1 occupations include:
- Healthcare: Anesthetists, Cardiothoracic Surgeons, General Practitioners, Psychiatrists.
- Engineering: Chemical Engineers, Civil Engineers, Electrical Engineers, Geotechnical Engineers.
- Information Technology: ICT Security Specialists.
For a comprehensive list of Tier 1 occupations and specific eligibility criteria, refer to Immigration New Zealand’s official Green List.
Embarking on the Straight to Residency pathway not only offers a promising career but also the opportunity to immerse yourself and your family in the rich culture and natural beauty of New Zealand. With a streamlined process and clear eligibility criteria, this program is an attractive option for professionals seeking a new chapter in one of the world’s most desirable destinations.
Top 20 Tier-1 Occupations Eligible for Direct Residency:
| Occupation | Salary Range (NZD) | Qualification/Registration Required |
|---|---|---|
| Anesthetist | 250,000 – 400,000+ | Medical Council NZ, Specialization in Anesthesiology |
| Cardiothoracic Surgeon | 300,000 – 500,000+ | Medical Council NZ, Cardiothoracic Surgery |
| Chemical Engineer | 80,000 – 150,000 | Bachelor’s in Chemical Engineering, Engineering NZ Registration |
| Civil Engineer | 70,000 – 140,000 | Bachelor’s in Civil Engineering, Engineering NZ Registration |
| … | … | … |
Why Consider the Straight to Residency Program?
Direct Pathway to Permanent Residency
Attractive Salaries: Ranging from NZD 70,000 to NZD 500,000+ depending on the field (Source: Stats NZ & MBIE Occupational Wages Report)
Family Inclusion from Day One
In-Demand Occupations with Job Security
Frequently Asked Questions:
Who is eligible for residency in NZ?
If you have worked in New Zealand for an accredited employer for more than 2 years, you may be eligible for this residence visa. You may be eligible for this residence visa if you hold a Talent (Accredited Employer) Work Visa and worked in New Zealand for an accredited employer for more than 2 years.
How much do I need to earn to apply for residency in New Zealand?
Applicants must have an offer of employment from an accredited employer with at least a 24-month commitment. Your contract must be permanent or for a fixed term of 2 years or more. Applicants must be earning at least NZD 79,560 (before tax) annually for a 40-hour working week.
Does the Tier 2 role qualify for work-to-resident status?
To be eligible to apply for residence with a Green List Tier 2 role, an applicant must have worked in a Tier 2 role in New Zealand for at least 24 months and within the 30 months immediately prior to lodging their residence application.
