New Zealand Expands Green List in 2025: Fast-Track Residency for In-Demand Professionals
New Zealand has broadened its Green List in 2025, offering skilled professionals a streamlined path to residency through two primary visa pathways: the Straight to Residence and Work to Residence Visas.
What is the Green List?
The Green List is a curated compilation of occupations experiencing significant shortages in New Zealand. It is divided into two tiers:
Tier 1: Roles eligible for the Straight to Residence Visa, allowing qualified professionals to apply for permanent residency immediately upon securing a job offer.
Tier 2: Positions under the Work to Residence Visa, requiring individuals to work in New Zealand for two years before becoming eligible for residency.
New Editions in 2025
In response to evolving labor market needs, 17 new roles have been incorporated into the Green List, bringing the total to over 220 occupations. These additions span various sectors, including:
- Healthcare: General practitioners, registered nurses, and aged care workers.
- Information Technology: Software developers, Data scientists, and Cybersecurity specialists.
