FAQs: Green List 'Straight to Residence'

05 September 2022

The green List Tier 1 (Straight to Residence) is not a temporary visa. It is a new residence category for people working in selected occupations and meeting certain skills and experience requirements. This is the first residence category to open post pandemic where offshore skilled workers can also apply, as long as they have the relevant job offer from an accredited NZ employer.

Frequently asked questions about this category are:

Is English required to apply for this visa?

Yes. A range of tests can be used. IELTS minimum requirements: overall score of 6.5 or more for the principal applicant. More details here.

What are the basic requirements I must meet for any Green List residence category?

55 years or younger
English language requirements same as Skilled Migrant Category
Standard health and character residence requirements
Hold a job offer from an accredited employer in New Zealand

I’m on an Essential Skills Work Visa, can I apply for this Straight to Residence Visa?

Yes. At the time you apply you must be working for an accredited employer.

I’m working as a contractor. Am I eligible?

Only in very specific circumstances:

where they meet the specific education and experience requirements for the role listed in Green List, and
meet any salary requirements for the role, and
where they hold a current contract or contracts for services totalling at least 6 months in duration

I’m offshore and I meet all the requirements for the Straight to Residence Visa. Can I apply from offshore?

Yes

How much is the fee?

The application fee and immigration levy will depend on whether you are applying from within New Zealand or another part of the world.

Band A (NZ): NZD $4290
Band B (Pacific): NZD $4020
Band C (rest of world): NZD $4890.

What roles are eligible for this Straight to Residence pathway?

See here for the full list: https://info.aimsglobal.co.nz/green-list-tier-1

Does ANZSCO play a role in this category of residence?

Yes, very much. For roles that do not require occupational registration, an immigration officer will assess whether the employment matches the Green List occupation by undertaking a substantial match assessment with a corresponding ANZSCO code.

What if I don't have a permanent offer? Are fixed-term contracts acceptable for Fast Track/Straight to Residence?

Yes, but fixed-term contracts must be at least 12 months and must employ you at least 30 hours/week

I have submitted 2021 Resident Visa which is moving slowly/not moving. Should I also apply for this?

No. Immigration NZ encourages people who have already applied for a 2021 Resident Visa to continue with their application, rather than applying for a Straight to Residence Visa as well.