New Zealand Green List Skilled Migration

New Zealand · Skilled migration · Summary: The Green List has been expanded to 215 shortage occupations. Tier 1 (approx. 174, including software engineer, civil engineer, registered nurse and construction project manager) allows a direct resident visa application from offshore with an accredited employer offer. Tier 2 (approx. 41) requires 2 years of local work before applying. No points test and no financial background check, with an approval rate above approx. 95%.

Outcome	Tier 1: direct resident visa / Tier 2: apply after 2 years of work
Capital threshold	Occupation must be on the Green List of 215 occupations + accredited employer offer
Investment / route	Employment in a shortage occupation
Processing time	Tier 1 can be approved from offshore
Residence requirement	Tier 2 requires 2 years of full-time local work
Category	Skilled migration

Salary and hourly thresholds are indexed to the median (Appendix 13, updated March 2026, is now broken down by occupation). Being on the list does not mean an individual automatically qualifies — the corresponding registration, qualification and wage requirements must still be met.

FAQ

How much does New Zealand Green List Skilled Migration require?

The current threshold is: Occupation must be on the Green List of 215 occupations + accredited employer offer. The route is: Employment in a shortage occupation. Beyond the published threshold, expect government fees, legal fees and due diligence costs; actual outlay depends on the firm's quote.

How long until I receive "Tier 1: direct resident visa / Tier 2: apply after 2 years of work"?

The typical processing time is around Tier 1 can be approved from offshore. Actual duration depends on document completeness, background checks and official processing pace, and varies significantly by case.

Is there a residence requirement?

Tier 2 requires 2 years of full-time local work

Anything specific for mainland Chinese applicants?

Terms may change as authorities adjust them, and practice can differ by consular district and over time. Where cross-border transfers or tax arrangements are involved, consult a professional adviser before filing.

Source: Immigration New Zealand (Green List and Straight to Residence) official site ↗ · Last verified: 2026-09-20 · For reference only; not application or legal advice. Always check the official source for current rules.

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