More options for trades workers to become New Zealand residents?
The government has announced that it will extend the Green List to incorporate several trades occupations. This was long awaited news for many employers and migrants. However, the detail of the announcement has shown it to be disappointing. Effectively, this announcement does not change the situation faced by many skilled migrants to New Zealand. There remains no pathway to residence for skilled tradespeople, unless they have a degree or are earning a very high hourly rate.
What trades occupations have been added to the Green List?
Metal Fabricator, Metal Machinist (First Class), Fitter (General), Fitter and Turner, Fitter Welder, Pressure Welder, Welder, Panel Beater, Vehicle Painter, and Paving Plant Operator.
When will they be added to the list?
18 August 2025.
What are the requirements?
To qualify for residence as a Metal Fabricator, Metal Machinist (First Class), Fitter (General), Fitter and Turner, Fitter Welder, Pressure Welder, or Welder, the applicant must be earning at least $43.63 per hour. This is 30% above the median wage on 18 August.
To qualify for residence as a Panel Beater, Vehicle Painter, and Paving Plant Operator, the applicant must be earning at least $38.59 per hour. This is 15% above the median wage on 18 August.
The applicant must be in the occupation for two years, earning at this rate. Therefore, an applicant is likely to require a further pay increase to ensure that he/she is earning at 30% or 15% above the median wage, when the resident visa application is submitted at the end of the two-year period.
Why is this unlikely to benefit employers and migrants?
The wage rates have been set at this level to “target the most skilled and experienced workers in these roles”. However, we understand that these rates are above what many New Zealand employers would pay senior and highly skilled employees, in these occupations. Therefore, the inclusion of these occupations in the Green List is likely to be of limited benefit to employers, migrants, or New Zealand’s overall need to recruit skilled migrants.
If you have any questions, please reach out to our Immigration team.
Special thanks to Partner Nicola Tiffen for preparing this article.
Disclaimer: The content of this article is general in nature and not intended as a substitute for specific professional advice on any matter and should not be relied upon for that purpose.
