What must I have to qualify for New Zealand's straight-to-residence visa after finishing my Green List diploma?
For the straight-to-residence pathway after a Green List diploma, you typically need a Tier 1 Green List job, the required qualifications and experience, a full-time permanent role or a 12-month contract of at least 30 hours a week, an age of 55 or under, and an overall IELTS of 6.5.
After a Green List diploma in New Zealand, the straight-to-residence pathway is the most direct residency option, but it comes with specific job, age and English requirements. Check each one against your own situation.
Straight-to-Residence Requirements
| Requirement | Typical condition |
|---|---|
| Job tier | A job on Tier 1 of the Green List |
| Qualifications | The qualifications and experience set out for the role |
| Employment terms | Full-time permanent role, or at least 30 hours a week on a 12-month contract |
| Age | 55 years or younger |
| English | Overall IELTS of 6.5 or more; dependent children need 5.0 or more |
How It Compares With Work-to-Residence
- The other route is the Work-to-Residence pathway, which needs a job on Tier 2 of the Green List.
- It has the same qualification, employment terms and age rules, and the English, health and character requirements remain the same.
- Rules and scores can change, so check the official New Zealand immigration page for the latest conditions.
My Advice
Find out early which tier your intended job sits in, because that decides your route. Line up your job offer, proof of qualifications and IELTS result together and confirm every rule on the official immigration page before you apply.
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