New Zealand Green List residence routes in 2026

The Green List is a set of occupations New Zealand identifies as in demand. The route depends on whether the job is in Tier 1 or Tier 2.

Tier 1: Straight to Residence

A qualifying Tier 1 worker can apply for a Straight to Residence Visa when they are working for, or have an eligible job offer from, an accredited employer and meet the occupation's registration, qualification and pay rules.

Applicants are generally 55 or younger, and the residence visa lets a successful holder live, work and study in New Zealand indefinitely. A partner and dependent children can be included where the family requirements are met.

Tier 2: Work to Residence

Tier 2 occupations use the Work to Residence Visa. The worker needs the relevant Tier 2 job and normally 24 months of qualifying work in New Zealand on an acceptable visa while meeting the relevant wage and occupation requirements.

The current job or offer must also meet the route's full-time, accredited-employer and duration conditions.

Green List is not the same as SMC

A worker can sometimes fit more than one skilled-residence route. Green List residence should be checked separately from the Skilled Migrant Category; the tests and evidence are not interchangeable.

Official guidance: Green List pathway, Straight to Residence, and Work to Residence.

Related: AEWV, Permanent Resident Visa, New Zealand hub.

Official and supporting sources

Related routes in New Zealand