Green List Roles in New Zealand

The Green List in New Zealand highlights occupations that are in critical demand across the country’s key industries. It provides a clear pathway for skilled professionals to secure employment and obtain work or residence visas with streamlined processes under Immigration New Zealand (INZ).

Key Features of Green List Roles:

  • Skill Shortage Occupations: The Green List identifies roles with persistent shortages in sectors such as healthcare, construction, engineering, IT, and education. It is regularly updated to reflect New Zealand’s workforce needs.
  • Visa Eligibility: Individuals with a job offer in a Green List occupation may qualify for specific work visas like the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) or direct residence pathways.
  • Streamlined Process: Employers hiring for Green List roles enjoy faster and simpler visa processing, reducing recruitment delays for skilled overseas talent.
  • Pathways to Residence: Many Green List occupations provide a direct route to residence under the Straight to Residence or Work to Residence categories.
  • Skilled Migrant Category (SMC): Professionals can also apply for the SMC Resident Visa, a points-based system that rewards qualifications, experience, and employment in a Green List occupation.
  • Long-Term Career Opportunities: Green List roles often lead to stable and high-demand careers with strong growth potential, job security, and settlement opportunities.

Examples of Green List Occupations:

  • Registered Nurses and Medical Practitioners
  • Software Engineers and IT Business Analysts
  • Construction Project Managers and Quantity Surveyors
  • Civil, Electrical, and Mechanical Engineers
  • Secondary School Teachers and Early Childhood Educators
  • Electricians, Plumbers, and Welders
  • Healthcare Assistants and Aged Care Workers

Being employed in a Green List role significantly enhances your eligibility for both work and residence visas in New Zealand. At Visa2Migrate, we help skilled professionals match their experience with high-demand occupations, secure valid job offers, and navigate the visa process efficiently under INZ’s latest Green List framework.

Pro Tip: The Green List is reviewed periodically by Immigration New Zealand. Always check for the latest updates to ensure your occupation remains eligible for streamlined work or residence visa pathways.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Immigration policies and the Green List are subject to change by Immigration New Zealand (INZ) without prior notice. Applicants are strongly advised to consult qualified immigration advisers or verify the latest Green List roles via official INZ sources.