Residence Pathway

In New Zealand, a residence visa allows you to live, work and study indefinetely, but with travel conditions that may limit your ability to re-enter the country as a resident. A permanent resident visa, often the next step after a resident visa, grants you unrestricted re-entry and indefinite stay.  

Navigating New Zealand’s residency options can be complex—but with the right guidance, you can find the pathway that’s right for you. Here’s an overview of the main residence visa categories, to help you make informed decisions with confidence.

Two construction workers walking on a bridge under construction, with yellow scaffolding and modern buildings in the background.

Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa

  • This process can be competitive and technical—our expert team is here to guide you every step of the way.

    • Minimum of 6 points, based on:

      • Skilled employment in New Zealand

      • Qualifications

      • Income level

      • NZ registration/licensing (if required)

      • Relevant work experience in New Zealand

    • Full-time job (30+ hours/week) with an accredited employer

    • Aged 55 or under

    • Meet English language standards

  • Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI); if selected, you’ll be invited to apply for residence.

Three people interacting in an office setting, two standing and smiling at a third person who is seated and shaking hands with one of them. A laptop is visible on the desk.

Green List Pathways

  • A fast-track for in-demand skills in health, engineering, IT, and more – check with our team.

  • Apply immediately if you have:

    • A job or job offer in a Tier 1 Green List role

    • Full-time employment with an accredited employer

    • Meet role-specific qualifications or registration

  • Apply after 24 months of work in:

    • A Tier 2 Green List role

    • Ongoing employment with an accredited employer

Person in a beige suit holding a notepad and pen, looking out a large window in an office setting.

Sector Agreement Pathways

  • These targeted pathways address labour shortages and offer a path to residency for essential workers. We can help with assessing your situation.

    • Work in an eligible care role for 24 months

    • Ongoing employment with an accredited employer

    • 24 months of work in an approved transport sector role

    • Employed by an accredited employer

Family members hugging each other in a backyard, including an elderly couple and younger individuals, showing expressions of joy and affection.

Family-Based Residence

  • Let us help you bring your family closer, permanently.

    • For those in a genuine, stable relationship

  • For children of NZ citizens or residents

    • Subject to quotas and eligibility criteria

Two people discussing a document on a table

Residence from Work Category

  • A solid option for those already contributing to New Zealand’s workforce.

    • At least 24 months working in New Zealand on a qualifying Work to Residence visa

    • Ongoing employment with an accredited employer

Colorful city skyline at night with vertical light trails, creating an abstract effect.

Business and Investment Pathways

  • Shape your future in a country that values innovation and enterprise.

    • For those who have successfully operated a business in NZ

    • For significant investors

    • For essential staff relocating with a business

    • For individuals contributing to innovation and global impact (after 30 months)

Permanent Resident Visa

  • We can help you secure your long-term future in New Zealand

    • Live, work, and study in New Zealand indefinitely

    • No travel restrictions

Let’s Talk Visas – Book Your Consultation Today!