Immigration New Zealand has just provided details of the three new residence pathways for people working in roles on Tier 1 and Tier 2 Green Lists, and those earning at least twice the median wage.
There are three sub-categories:
- Green List, Straight to Residence
- Selected Tier 1 roles in Construction, Engineering, Health and Social Services, Primary Industries and Science and ICT, electronic and telecommunications.
- Applications from 5th September 2022
- Applicants must have employment or an offer of employment from an accredited employer in an occupation on Tier 1 of the Green List and meet the specified requirements on the list for the occupation.
- Offers must also be full-time (at least 30 hours per week), genuine, and permanent, or for a 12-month fixed-term contract. Under certain circumstances, independent contractors are also eligible.
- Green List Work to Residence
- Selected Tier 2 roles in Health and Social Services, Agriculture and Trades
- Applicants must have employment or an offer of employment in an occupation in Tier 2 of the Green List and meet the specified requirements on the list for the occupation
- Applicants must have worked for 24 months in New Zealand in an occupation (and meet the specified requirements) in Tier 2 of the Green List.
- Work in New Zealand can be counted from 29 September 2021
- Highly Paid
- This Resident visa provides a pathway to residence for people who were paid at least two times the median wage (currently $55.52 per hour) over 24 months.
- Work in New Zealand can be counted from 29 September 2021
To be eligible for these new skilled residence pathways, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- be 55 years old or younger
- be able to meet the Skilled Migrant Category English language requirements,
- be able to meet standard health and character requirements for residence, and
- have or have been offered a job with an accredited employer
As always, we are available to answer any questions you may have regarding these residence pathways. Contact us to discuss your unique situation.
Graydon Sharratt
Director and Licensed Immigration Adviser