Pathways
Main routes to New Zealand residence
Skilled Migrant Category
Points-based residence for skilled workers, with new pathways from 24 August 2026.
Green List Straight to Residence
For Tier 1 Green List jobs with an accredited employer, aged 55 or under.
Work to Residence
Tier 2 Green List jobs: work for a period in New Zealand, then apply for residence.
Accredited Employer Work Visa
The main work visa for skilled jobs with accredited employers.
Post-study to residence
Study, work on a Post Study Work Visa, then use New Zealand qualifications and experience for residence.
Study in New Zealand →
Parent Boost visa
A long-term multiple-entry visitor visa for parents of New Zealand citizens and residents.
Changes from 24 August 2026
The new Skilled Migrant Category pathways
| Pathway | Main requirements |
|---|---|
| Points-based | 6 points from qualifications, income or occupational registration, topped up with New Zealand skilled work. New Zealand qualifications now earn more points than overseas ones. |
| Skilled Work Experience | 5 years of skilled experience, including 2 years in New Zealand at 1.2 times the median wage. |
| Trades & Technician | A Level 4+ qualification and 4 years’ post-qualification experience, including 1.5 years in New Zealand at the median wage. |
Wage thresholds are now fixed at the rate that applied when your skilled work started, not when you apply for residence. The median wage is NZ$35.00 an hour from 9 March 2026.
Sources: Immigration New Zealand announcements on Skilled Migrant Category changes (August 2026). Checked October 2026.
Green List
Straight to Residence
- A Tier 1 Green List job with an accredited employer
- Job offer of at least 12 months
- Aged 55 or under
- Meet health, character and English requirements
Family
Parent Boost visa
The Parent Boost visa, open since 29 September 2025, lets parents of New Zealand citizens and residents visit for up to 5 years at a time, with the option of a second visa. It is a visitor visa, not a pathway to residence. Applicants need comprehensive health insurance and either a sponsor who meets the income threshold or enough funds of their own.
Related
Keep reading
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
Who gives New Zealand immigration advice at Expert Immigration?
Amit Bhardwaj, Licensed Immigration Adviser, Licence No. 201600534. You can check the licence on the Immigration Advisers Authority register.
What changed in the Skilled Migrant Category in 2026?
From 24 August 2026 there are three pathways: points-based, skilled work experience, and trades and technician, with wage thresholds fixed at the start of your skilled work.
What is the median wage in New Zealand?
NZ$35.00 an hour from 9 March 2026.
Can my parents live in New Zealand?
The Parent Boost visa allows long visits of up to 5 years at a time, but it does not lead to residence.
Check your New Zealand options
Book a consultation with our Licensed Immigration Adviser.