There are currently three Pathways to Residence which may lead to Permanent Residence visas and, if so required, onto Citizenship;
- Skilled Migrant Category
- Green List occupations - two-year work to residence OR ‘fast track’ straight to residence
- Paid twice the median wage - two-year work to residence
1. SMC Skilled Migrant Category
This category is expected to re-open late 2022.
The SMC is a point-based system that recognizes skills, age and qualification and experience. It does not require employer support or any specific job, it is purely focussed on the migrant and their unique possible contribution to New Zealand.
A thorough and detailed calculation of the SMC points is essential to determine your eligibility and possible success, especially the recognition of experience and qualifications achieved overseas are pivotable.
SMC applications may be made from outside New Zealand or from within New Zealand.
2. Green List Occupations - Two year Work-to-Residence
Applicants can be within NZ or offshore.
This Green List is a list of jobs for which AEWV may be issued, with work-to-residence rights. Minimum qualifications or experience are applicable or, in some cases, a minimum income is required.
You may then apply for residence after two years of work in the job for which your AEWV was issued.
The employer is not required to advertise the vacant position.
Your partner will have Open Work rights.
2. Green List Occupations - Fast-Track Residence
Applicants can be in NZ or offshore.
This Green List is a list of jobs for which AEWV may be issued, with close to immediate application rights for residence applications. Minimum qualifications or experience are applicable or, in some cases, a minimum income is required.
According to INZ, these work visa are issued within 30 days.
The employer is not required to advertise the vacant position.
Your partner will have Open Work rights.
Fast track means here that you apply for a work visa say in July, you then could apply for residence in September.
3. Occupations paying twice the median wage - Two-year Work to Residence
Applicants can be within NZ or offshore.
All other jobs of AEWV holders that are paid at twice or more the median wage are eligible for a two year work to residence visa
You may then apply for residence after two years of work in the job for which your AEWV was issued.
The employer is not required to advertise the vacant position.
Your partner will have Open Work rights.
