Green List
New Zealand's fast-track pathway to residence for occupations facing critical skills shortages. The Green List offers two tiers: Tier 1 allows applicants to apply for residence immediately upon arrival with a qualifying job offer, while Tier 2 requires 24 months of continuous work before residence eligibility. Covering healthcare, engineering, ICT, construction, and science roles, the Green List is designed to attract globally competitive talent to address New Zealand's most pressing workforce gaps. Applicants must hold a full-time job offer from an accredited employer. Qualifications and professional registration requirements vary by occupation. The Green List is regularly updated to reflect changing labor market conditions.
Tier 1 vs Tier 2 Comparison
| Feature | Tier 1 - Straight to Residence | Tier 2 - Work to Residence |
|---|---|---|
| Residence eligibility | Immediate on arrival | After 24 months of work in NZ |
| Work requirement before residence | None | 24 months continuous employment |
| Typical occupations | Doctors, surgeons, software engineers, structural engineers | Electricians, plumbers, carpenters, midwives |
| Skill level | ANZSCO Skill Level 1 (Professionals) | ANZSCO Skill Levels 1-3 (Professionals, Technicians, Trades) |
| Employer requirement | Accredited employer | Accredited employer |
| Family inclusion | Immediate with residence application | After 24 months, with residence application |
Green List Occupations by Category
Healthcare
Engineering
ICT
Construction & Trades
Science & Education
Requirements
Job Offer
Full-time job or job offer from an accredited employer in New Zealand.
Age
Aged 55 or under at the time of application.
Occupation
Your occupation must be on the relevant Tier of the Green List.
Qualifications
Meet the relevant qualifications and/or professional registration for your occupation.
Registration
Where applicable, you must hold current professional registration with the relevant New Zealand authority (e.g. Medical Council, Plumbers Board).
English Language
Meet English language requirements (IELTS 6.5 overall or equivalent for most roles).
Health & Character
Meet health and character requirements including medical and police certificates.
Application Process
Check eligibility
Confirm your occupation is on the Green List and determine your Tier (1 or 2). Check qualification and registration requirements.
Secure a job offer
Obtain a full-time job offer from an accredited employer in New Zealand. The employer must hold valid accreditation with Immigration New Zealand.
Gather documents
Collect qualification certificates, professional registration, IELTS results, police clearances, and medical certificates.
Apply for work visa or residence
Tier 1: Apply directly for residence upon arrival. Tier 2: Apply for an AEWV first, then apply for residence after 24 months of work.
Medical and biometrics
Complete your medical examination and provide biometric information as requested by Immigration NZ.
Decision
Processing typically takes 3-6 months for residence applications. You will be notified of the outcome by Immigration NZ.
Costs
| Item | Amount (NZD) |
|---|---|
| Residence application fee (principal applicant) | $580 |
| Residence application fee (partner) | $580 |
| Residence application fee (dependent child) | $280 |
| Immigration levy | $310 |
| Police certificate (per country) | $20-50 |
| Medical examination | $400-600 |
| IELTS test fee | $385 |
| Qualification assessment (NZQA) | $750-1,000 |
FAQ
What is the difference between Tier 1 and Tier 2?
Do I need an employer to sponsor me for the Green List?
Can I bring my family on the Green List pathway?
What qualifications do I need?
How long does it take to get residence through the Green List?
Official Sources
- Immigration New Zealand (immigration.govt.nz) – Official New Zealand immigration authority