New Zealand Green List: Work to Residence Pathway (2026 Guide)
The Work to Residence pathway covers Green List occupations that require a period of work in New Zealand — typically 24 months — before you can apply for residence. From August 2025 it also includes ten trades occupations. It suits in-demand professionals whose role qualifies for residence after they demonstrate a settled, well-paid work history in the country.
Green List Work to Residence: Key Facts At-a-Glance
Below is a summary of processing times, statutory criteria, and typical point thresholds for Indian applicants pursuing the Green List Work to Residence (New Zealand).
| Visa Metric | Details & Requirements |
|---|---|
| Visa Subclass | Green List Work to Residence (Work period then residence) |
| Avg. Processing Time | 3 - 6 months (indicative) |
| Government Fees | From NZD 6,490 (INR 3,25,000 approx.), incl. levy |
| English Language Min | Set by the role/occupational registration; English competency required |
| Visa Validity | Permanent residence after the qualifying work period |
Why Apply for this Visa Path?
- Defined route: a clear two-year work-then-residence pathway for listed roles.
- In-demand occupations: designed for skills New Zealand needs.
- Predictable: meet the work requirement, then apply for residence.
Detailed Entry Requirements
To apply under this New Zealand visa track from India, your credentials must fulfill the following regulatory criteria:
- 1Listed occupation: A role on the Work to Residence Green List.
- 2Qualifying employment: A qualifying job offer and sustained employment for the required period.
- 3Health, character & registration: Meet health and character standards and any occupational registration.
Step-by-Step Filing Workflow
Every applicant from Bangalore/India follows this standardized workflow to file their visa application securely:
Confirm pathway eligibility
Match your occupation to the Work to Residence list.
Secure the role and work visa
Obtain qualifying employment and the supporting work visa.
Complete the work period
Maintain qualifying employment for the required duration.
Apply for residence
Lodge the residence application once the work requirement is met.
Verify New Zealand immigration rules directly from official government sources.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are critical questions and details regarding target timelines and scores for this visa path.
How does the Green List Work to Residence pathway work?
You work in New Zealand in a listed Tier 2 (or eligible trades) Green List occupation for a qualifying period - usually 24 months of full-time work paid at the required rate - and then apply for a resident visa. It rewards in-demand workers who settle and stay.
How long must I work before applying for residence?
Typically 24 months of full-time, paid work in the eligible Green List role, earning at least the required wage for that occupation from the time you started. We track your dates and pay so your residence application is lodged the moment you qualify.
What is the difference between Straight to Residence and Work to Residence?
Straight to Residence (Tier 1) lets you apply for residence immediately with a qualifying job offer. Work to Residence (Tier 2 and eligible trades) requires a period of NZ work first - usually 24 months - before you can apply. The right route depends on your exact occupation.
How much does the resident visa cost?
Residence under this pathway costs from about NZD 6,490 for offshore applicants (roughly INR 3,25,000), including the levy. Your earlier work visa (usually the AEWV) is charged separately. Confirm current fees with Immigration New Zealand before applying.
Which trades were added to Work to Residence?
From 18 August 2025, ten trades occupations were added to the Work to Residence pathway. Eligibility depends on the current list and your exact role and wage, so we check your ANZSCO code and pay against the live rules before you rely on this route.
Check Your New Zealand Visa Eligibility
Submit your details for this specific Green List Work to Residence visa track. Our Bangalore team (Koramangala HQ) led by Director Ms. Nahid Hussain will evaluate your credentials and reply directly on WhatsApp with your exact points audit.