A Comprehensive Guide: Work to Residence Visa in New Zealand
There are different ways to migrate and build a new feature in another country, and getting a work to residence visa New Zealand is among them.
Skilled residence pathways can set the stage for your permanent settlement in NZ, and you can enjoy the perks of residency.
Before you get all excited, here is a guide to help you better understand this type of visa and acquire the necessary New Zealand resident visa requirements.
What Is a Work to Residence Visa New Zealand?
A work-to-residence visa is a category designed to retain skilled individuals who have already contributed to the New Zealand economy.
Among the common work to residence visa New Zealand requirements is having worked in a specific in-demand occupation for a minimum period, often two years, under an accredited employer.
This visa stream emphasises the value of skilled labour and aims to support long-term economic growth and development within the country.
It is important to remember that some eligibility criteria and requirements may vary, so it is recommended to consult the official Immigration New Zealand website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
How to Get a Work to Residence Visa in New Zealand?
There are various ways to acquire a work-to-residence visa, but you must meet the qualifications to get one successfully.
Your eligibility for a work to residence visa largely depends on your skills and qualifications. To qualify, you must work for an accredited employer work visa in New Zealand in a specific, in-demand role and meet specific experience requirements.
Your employer can demonstrate a specific need for your skills that a New Zealand resident cannot quickly fill.
The second path involves working in a role listed on the Long-Term Skills Shortage List for a specified period.
Given the complexities of the visa application process, considering the assistance of an immigration adviser is strongly recommended.
They can guide you through the process, ensuring you meet all requirements and avoid common pitfalls.
What Are the Other Work to Residence Visa Pathways?
New Zealand offers multiple pathways to residency. Some visas, evaluated and issued by the New Zealand immigration and government, like the Straight to Residence Visa, allow eligible migrants to apply for permanent residency immediately upon arrival.
However, other options, such as the Work to Residence Visa, require individuals to gain work experience within the country before becoming eligible for residency.
The specific pathway depends on factors like the migrant’s skills, qualifications, and the nature of their employment.
For expert guidance and personalised advice, Greatlife Immigration Services can help you navigate your options and find the best pathway to residency in New Zealand. Contact us today to start your journey towards a new life in New Zealand!
If you are a skilled professional, there are at least three pathways to residency in New Zealand using the work to residence visa NZ. These are the following:
Skilled Migrant Category
The Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) is a pathway to permanent residency for skilled workers who can contribute to New Zealand’s economy.
It operates on a points-based system, with a higher score increasing your chances of being selected for a visa.
To qualify for the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa, you must earn six points. These points are awarded based on your qualifications, registration with a New Zealand professional body, income level, and work experience within New Zealand.
Apart from the intricate point system, you must also comply with these requirements to get your visa approved:
• Occupational registration is a formal process where professionals in specific fields must be licensed or certified to practice in New Zealand. This usually requires at least two years of specialised training or experience.
• A bachelor’s degree or a higher academic qualification, such as a master’s or doctorate
• A skilled job that pays at least one and a half times the average New Zealand wage
Green List Pathway
The Green List is designed to expedite the immigration process for highly skilled professionals in occupations experiencing shortages in New Zealand.
To qualify for this pathway, you must hold a job offer or be employed in New Zealand Green List jobs. Each job on the list has specific requirements, such as qualifications or experience, which applicants must meet.
Moreover, there are two types of Green List visa categories, which are:
Straight to Residence Visa
If you’ve secured a job offer in a Tier 1 occupation listed on the Green List, you may be eligible for the Straight to Residence Visa NZ.
This visa pathway is designed for highly skilled professionals in critical shortage areas. To qualify, you must meet specific requirements for your particular occupation, including educational qualifications, professional registrations, and salary thresholds.
If you meet all the criteria, you can apply for permanent residency without first needing to work in New Zealand.
Work to Residence Visa
If your job offer aligns with a Tier 2 occupation on the Green List and you meet the specified qualifications, registration, and salary requirements, you’ll need to work in New Zealand for two years on a specific visa.
This practical experience, combined with your qualifications, makes you eligible to apply for a work to residence visa NZ.
This visa pathway aims to reward skilled workers who contribute to the New Zealand economy and aims to retain their expertise within the country.
Care Workforce and Transport Sector Agreements
In the event that your occupation falls under a specified sector agreement and meets the necessary qualifications, registration, and wage criteria, you’ll need to work in New Zealand for two years while holding a specific visa.
This two-year work experience is a requirement before you can apply for residency under this pathway. When you decide to acquire a sector visa, here are some of the paths that you can take:
Care Workforce to Resident Visa
Eligible individuals can apply for permanent residency by earning at least NZD 28.25 per hour and working in the care workforce for two years. This visa addresses the country’s growing need for skilled care workers.
Transport Sector to Resident Visa
In late 2022, the government introduced a two-year work to residence visa in New Zealand as a pathway for truck and bus drivers to gain residency there.
This initiative aims to address the shortage of drivers in the transport sector. To qualify for this pathway, drivers must have completed at least two years of work experience in New Zealand.