Straight to Residence Visa

Overview

The Straight to Residence Visa is designed to attract critical talent to New Zealand. It bypasses the need for a temporary work visa, allowing you to secure residence before moving. You must have a job offer from an accredited employer in a role identified on the Tier 1 Green List.

Who qualifies

To qualify, you must be aged 55 or younger and have a full-time job offer from an accredited employer. Your role must be on the Tier 1 Green List, and you must meet all specific requirements for that role, which may include professional registration, specific qualifications, or minimum salary thresholds. You must also meet standard health and character requirements.

Application steps

1. 1

   Step 1: Verify Eligibility

   Confirm your occupation is on the Tier 1 Green List and that you meet all specific requirements (registration, qualifications, etc.).

2. 2

   Step 2: Secure Job Offer

   Obtain a full-time job offer from an employer accredited by Immigration New Zealand.

3. 3

   Step 3: Prepare Documentation

   Gather all required identity, health, character, and qualification documents. Ensure non-English documents are professionally translated.

4. 4

   Step 4: Submit Application

   Apply online through the Immigration New Zealand portal and pay the required application fees.

5. 5

   Step 5: Await Decision

   Your application will be assessed by a case officer. You may be asked to provide further information if necessary.

Required documents

• Valid passport
• Job offer from an accredited employer
• Evidence of meeting Green List role requirements (e.g., qualifications, registration)
• Medical and chest X-ray certificates
• Police certificates from countries of citizenship and residence
• Evidence of English language proficiency
• Proof of relationship for partner and dependent children

PR, family, language & arrival

Common pitfalls

• Failing to meet specific Green List registration or qualification requirements
• Employer not being accredited at the time of application
• Incomplete health or police certificates causing delays
• Incorrectly documenting the relationship for family members