Skilled Migrant Category
- Often suits
- Skilled workers with qualifications or experience
- Typical considerations
- How points are made up; skilled employment and evidence
Residence visas
New Zealand residence visa pathways, explained clearly
Skilled Migrant Category, Straight to Residence, Work to Residence, Green List-related pathways and the Permanent Resident Visa each work differently. We help you understand which may apply and how to prepare.
The landscape
There is rarely one residence pathway — there are several
Residence can be reached in different ways depending on your work, skills, time in New Zealand and circumstances. Some people are close to applying now; others are planning a few years ahead.
The pathways below are described in general terms. Specific criteria can change and depend on individual facts, so an adviser will assess your situation before advising on a pathway.
Pathways
Residence pathways we advise on
Skilled Migrant Category
A points-based residence pathway recognising skilled work, qualifications and experience.
Straight to Residence
For certain in-demand roles, a more direct route to residence may be available.
Work to Residence
Working in a qualifying role for a period may build toward a residence application.
Green List-related pathways
Some occupations on the Green List can connect to specific residence options.
Permanent Resident Visa
After holding residence, a Permanent Resident Visa may be the next step.
Including your family
Residence applications often include partners and dependent children.
Compare
A high-level comparison of residence routes
A starting point only — the right route depends on your circumstances and current instructions.
Timing
Ready now, or planning ahead?
Residence is as much about planning as paperwork. These are worth thinking about either way.
- Understand which pathway is realistic for you
- See what evidence you may need to build over time
- Avoid changes that could affect a future application
- Plan family timing alongside your own application
- Keep an eye on how settings may change
Care points
Evidence and risk considerations
Residence applications often involve detailed evidence about identity, health, character, employment and qualifications. Inconsistencies or gaps can create risk. We help you understand what may be required and prepare carefully, so issues are considered early rather than discovered late.
Immigration instructions can change. We focus on your circumstances and current settings rather than treating any criterion as permanent.
How we work
A typical residence journey
1
Assess your position
We review your work, skills and circumstances against possible pathways.
2
Choose a realistic route
We explain which pathway fits and what it involves.
3
Build and organise evidence
We help you assemble a complete, consistent set of documents.
4
Prepare the application
We support a well-structured application for you and your family.
5
Stay informed
You can speak with a real adviser as the process continues.
Questions
Residence FAQ
It depends on your circumstances. We assess the relevant facts and explain the realistic options rather than recommending a route before understanding your situation.
Some pathways involve skilled employment and others work differently. We can explain how employment may factor into your options.
Residence applications often include partners and dependent children. We help you understand how to include your family.
They can. Immigration instructions change over time, so we focus on current settings and your specific circumstances.
A Resident Visa allows you to live in New Zealand under certain conditions; a Permanent Resident Visa may follow later. We can explain how the two relate to your situation.
Next step
Explore your residence pathway
Whether you are ready now or planning ahead, we will help you understand the realistic route to residence.