Straight To Residence Work Visa

Fast-Track Your Path to Permanent Residence

The Straight to Residence Visa offers a streamlined route to permanent residency for individuals with high-demand skills listed on New Zealand's Green List. With no need for a long waiting period or extended work requirements, eligible applicants can move directly to residency, allowing you to live and work in New Zealand permanently from the outset.

What is the Straight to Residence Visa?

The Straight to Residence Visa is a pathway for individuals working in high-demand roles listed on New Zealand's Green List. This visa allows applicants to obtain permanent residency immediately, provided they meet the qualifications and experience criteria for their role. The visa is aimed at skilled professionals in sectors like healthcare, engineering, and IT, allowing them to live and work in New Zealand indefinitely without needing a work-to-residence transition.

More Information:

Length of Stay:

Successful applicants gain permanent residency, allowing them to stay in New Zealand indefinitely. There is no requirement to complete a specific work period before applying for residency.

Eligibility Criteria:

To qualify, applicants must have a job offer in a Green List occupation, meet the required qualifications and experience levels, and work for an accredited employer. Proof of qualifications must align with New Zealand’s Qualification Framework, requiring either an NZQA assessment or having qualifications exempt from assessment.

Length of Appeal Process:

Rights and Privileges:

With this visa, applicants have the right to live, work, and settle permanently in New Zealand. Additionally, family members can be included in the application, enabling partners and dependent children to work and study in New Zealand.

Pathway to Residency:

The Straight to Residence Visa offers immediate eligibility for permanent residency. As long as the applicant’s job is on the Green List and all conditions are met, they can transition directly to permanent residency without the need for an extended work period.

Straight To Residence Work Visa Application Process

Step 1:

Confirm Eligibility

Ensure you have a job offer in a Green List occupation and meet the required qualifications and experience.

Step 2:

Employer Accreditation

Your job offer must come from an accredited New Zealand employer.

Step 3:

Gather Documentation

Prepare required documents, including proof of qualifications, work experience, and a valid job offer.

Step 4:

Submit Application

Submit your visa application online via Immigration New Zealand’s portal.

Step 5:

Processing & Approval

Once approved, you receive permanent residency, allowing you to live and work in New Zealand indefinitely.

Step 6:

Step 7:

Step 8:

Webinars

If you already have a job offer and your skillset is included on the Green List, you may qualify for a Straight To Residence Work Visa.

We’ll guide you through the visa requirements, things you should consider while applying, common pitfalls and how we can help you navigate the entire process from conception to submission and beyond.

Our Upcoming Webinars

Check back soon for our next webinar.

Get in touch about your Straight To Residence Work Visa

Personalised visa assistance

Prefer to make a direct enquiry rather than attend a webinar? This option offers you personalised assistance tailored to your specific situation. By choosing a direct enquiry, you'll save time and receive expert guidance from NZIL’s team on your Straight To Residence Work Visa application. Whether you need help understanding your eligibility, preparing documents, or navigating the process, we’re here to provide clear, customised advice every step of the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are my qualifications recognised in New Zealand?

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I’ve finished studying in New Zealand. What visa can I apply for to start working?

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I don’t have any formal qualifications, but I do have skills and experience. Can I still get a work visa?

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Is there an age limit for visa applicants?

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Are my skills in demand?

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My partner lives in New Zealand and I’m in another country. Can I move over to live with them?

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