Work to Residence Visa
This route is for applicants who first build the required New Zealand work experience in a qualifying Tier 2 role and later meet the residence requirements.
General information only. Green List Tier 2 conditions change. Immigration NZ makes the final decision.
Tier 2 Green List
Tier 2 occupations are important to New Zealand but are not eligible for direct-to-residence applications. Workers must first gain qualifying experience in New Zealand before applying for residence.
Pathway stages
First, obtain an Accredited Employer Work Visa for a qualifying Tier 2 role. After meeting the required experience, income, and other conditions, apply for residence. The specific requirements depend on the occupation and current Green List rules.
Income and employment requirements
Workers must demonstrate they have been employed in a qualifying role at or above the required pay threshold for the required period. These thresholds and periods are set by Immigration New Zealand.
What you can expect from a serious review
- A route comparison based on the information provided
- A document and evidence checklist
- Clear decision points
- An explanation of what still needs official verification
- A defined next action
Frequently Asked Questions
Need help deciding what to do next?
Share your goal and a short summary of your situation. We will use it to prepare for an initial discussion. This is not an official immigration assessment.
No result is guaranteed. The value of the review is a clearer route, a better-prepared file and a more informed decision.