Great news for educators! From 26 March 2025, primary school teachers will be moved from the “Work to Residence” pathway to the “Straight to Residence” pathway under Immigration New Zealand’s Green List. This means eligible teachers can now apply for residency immediately, without needing to work in New Zealand for 2 years first.
Why this change?
New Zealand is facing a growing shortage of primary school teachers, particularly in Auckland and Northland. In response, the government has acted quickly to make it easier for schools to recruit internationally and fill these critical roles.
Who qualifies for Straight to Residence?
To be eligible, primary school teachers must meet these key requirements:
- Valid job offer from an accredited New Zealand employer
- New Zealand teacher registration with a practising certificate
- Minimum pay of NZ $31.61 per hour
Unlike before, teachers no longer need to work in New Zealand for 2 years before applying for residence — they can now apply as soon as they secure a job offer from an accredited employer, even from offshore.
What this means for migrant teachers
If you’re an experienced primary school teacher looking to move to New Zealand, this update makes the pathway to residency much easier and faster. With a strong demand for educators, now is the perfect time to explore your visa options.
Need help with your visa?
Our licensed immigration advisers can guide you through the process and ensure you meet all the residency requirements. Contact us today to discuss your situation and secure your future in New Zealand.
Haley Edlington (Sykes)
Licenced immigration Adviser