Overview
The Work to Residence Visa is designed for individuals working in specific high-demand occupations identified on the Tier 2 Green List. To qualify, you must complete 24 months of full-time work in New Zealand in an eligible role. This visa provides a clear, structured pathway to permanent residency for those who meet the specific occupational, salary, and employer requirements.
Who qualifies
To be eligible, you must be aged 55 or younger and hold a full-time job offer (at least 30 hours per week) from an accredited employer. Your role must be on the Tier 2 Green List, and you must have completed 24 months of work in that role in New Zealand. You must also meet the specific qualification, registration, and salary requirements (typically the median wage or higher) associated with your specific occupation.
Application steps
- 1
Step 1: Secure Employment
Obtain a full-time job offer from a New Zealand employer who is currently accredited.
- 2
Step 2: Work in NZ
Work in your Tier 2 Green List role for at least 24 months while holding a valid work visa.
- 3
Step 3: Prepare Application
Gather all required evidence, including proof of employment, qualifications, and health/character documentation.
- 4
Step 4: Submit Application
Apply for the Work to Residence Visa online through the Immigration New Zealand portal.
Required documents
- Valid passport
- Proof of identity
- Evidence of job offer from an accredited employer
- Evidence of 24 months of qualifying work in New Zealand
- Proof of meeting occupation-specific qualification or registration requirements
- Medical and police certificates
- Evidence of relationship for partners (if applicable)
PR, family, language & arrival
Path to longer stay / PR
Once granted, this visa provides indefinite residence. After holding this resident visa for 2 years, you may be eligible to apply for a Permanent Resident Visa, which allows for indefinite travel to and from New Zealand.
Family options
You may include your partner and dependent children (aged 24 or younger) in your residence application. Partners must demonstrate a genuine and stable relationship of at least 12 months.
Language notes
You must meet English language requirements as specified for your occupation and residence application.
After arrival
Upon approval, you are a resident of New Zealand. You can live, work, and study indefinitely. You should ensure you understand your ongoing obligations as a resident and prepare for the 2-year mark to apply for permanent residency.
Common pitfalls
- Failing to meet the specific qualification or registration requirements for the role.
- Not maintaining the required median wage threshold throughout the 24-month period.
- Incomplete documentation regarding employment history or relationship evidence.
- Applying before the full 24-month work requirement is met.
FAQs about Work to Residence Visa (Green List)
Who is the Work to Residence Visa (Green List) for?+
Skilled professionals in Tier 2 Green List occupations who have a job offer from an accredited employer and intend to settle in New Zealand long-term.
What are the eligibility requirements for Work to Residence Visa (Green List)?+
To be eligible, you must be aged 55 or younger and hold a full-time job offer (at least 30 hours per week) from an accredited employer. Your role must be on the Tier 2 Green List, and you must have completed 24 months of work in that role in New Zealand. You must also meet the specific qualification, registration, and salary requirements (typically the median wage or higher) associated with your specific occupation.
How much does the Work to Residence Visa (Green List) cost?+
Typical fees listed for Work to Residence Visa (Green List): From NZD $6,450. Always confirm on the official government site.
How long does Work to Residence Visa (Green List) processing take?+
ImmigraPath currently lists processing time as: Typically 3–4 months (80% of applications).
How long can I stay on the Work to Residence Visa (Green List)?+
Leads to indefinite residence
Can I work on the Work to Residence Visa (Green List)?+
Full work rights for the applicant; partners and dependent children may be included in the residence application.
Does Work to Residence Visa (Green List) lead to permanent residence in New Zealand?+
Once granted, this visa provides indefinite residence. After holding this resident visa for 2 years, you may be eligible to apply for a Permanent Resident Visa, which allows for indefinite travel to and from New Zealand.
What are common mistakes with Work to Residence Visa (Green List)?+
Failing to meet the specific qualification or registration requirements for the role. Not maintaining the required median wage threshold throughout the 24-month period. Incomplete documentation regarding employment history or relationship evidence.