New Zealand is actively encouraging skilled workers to move, live, and work in the country. To support this, Immigration New Zealand maintains a Green List of in-demand occupations, divided into Tier 1 – Straight to Residence and Tier 2 – Work to Residence.

Being on the Green List can make a huge difference: Tier 1 roles allow eligible professionals to apply for residency immediately, while Tier 2 offers a pathway after two years of work in New Zealand. Choosing the right role, understanding the requirements, and planning your career accordingly can be your fastest route to permanent residency.

Tier 1: Straight to Residence – Immediate Pathway

What It Means:

If your occupation is on Tier 1, you may apply for New Zealand residency immediately, provided you meet qualifications, registrations, and experience requirements.

Key Benefits:

• Apply for residency straight away
• Work in New Zealand without restrictions
• Priority for in-demand skilled sectors

Top Sectors & Example Roles:
Healthcare & Social Services:

• Registered Nurses, Doctors, Midwives
• Allied Health: Physiotherapists, Occupational Therapists, Audiologists
• Social Workers, Counsellors

Engineering & Construction:

• Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical Engineers
• Structural Engineers, Production/Plant Engineers
• Construction Project Managers, Surveyors

ICT & Technology:

• Software Engineers, Software Developers, ICT Security Specialists
• Database Administrators, System Analysts, Multimedia Specialists

Trades & Technical Roles:

• Limited Tier 1 trades, mostly advanced engineering-related roles

Agriculture & Primary Industries:

• Specialized roles in farming or food technology

Education:

• Primary and Secondary Teachers in high-demand subjects

Note: Full Tier 1 list available on the Immigration NZ Green List page.

Tier 2: Work to Residence – Two-Year Pathway 

What It Means:
Tier 2 roles allow skilled professionals to work in New Zealand for 2 years with an accredited employer before applying for residency.

Key Benefits:

• Gain local experience and points toward residency

• Work in sectors with high demand but slightly lower immediate priority

• Opportunity to move from regional to national roles

Top Sectors & Example Roles:

Healthcare & Education:

• Social Workers, Enrolled Nurses, Early Childhood Teachers

• Special Needs Teachers, School Principals

Construction & Trades:

• Building Supervisors, Crane Operators, Electricians, Plumbers

• Diesel Mechanics, Welders, Pressure Welders

ICT & Technology:

• Telecommunications Technicians

Agriculture:

• Dairy Farm Managers, Dairy Herd Managers

Civil Machinery Operators:

• Backhoe, Bulldozer, Loader, Excavator Operators

Tip: Tier 2 roles require employment with accredited employers and meeting job/pay criteria.

Full Tier 2 list: Immigration NZ Green List – Tier 2

Sector Summary Table 

Practical Guidance 

• Check your occupation: Use the Green List search on the official NZ immigration site.

• Understand eligibility: Tier 1 requires immediate qualifications, Tier 2 requires 2 years of work.

• Plan location & employment: Regional roles often have lower competition and higher nomination chances.

• Keep updated: The Green List changes regularly based on New Zealand’s workforce needs.

Conclusion 

The New Zealand Green List provides a clear path for skilled professionals to achieve permanent residency. Understanding Tier 1 and Tier 2 roles, aligning your skills with in-demand sectors, and planning your career can save time and maximize success. Whether you aim for immediate residency or a two-year pathway, the Green List is your roadmap to a future in New Zealand.

Call to Action: Visit Immigration New Zealand Green List to explore roles, eligibility, and next steps.