Overview of the 2025 Green List Expansion for Skilled Trades
We are pleased to share a pivotal update for skilled trades professionals seeking a long-term future in New Zealand. As of 18 August 2025, ten critical trades occupations will be officially added to the Work to Residence pathway under the New Zealand immigration Green List of in-demand occupations. This strategic move by the NZ Government is part of a broader initiative to address labour shortages in essential sectors while providing skilled individuals a streamlined path to permanent residence.
Newly Added Trades to the Green List: August 2025
From August 2025, workers in the following ten occupations will become eligible to apply for residence under the Work to Residence Visa category, provided they meet specified criteria:
- Metal Fabricator
- Metal Machinist (First Class)
- Fitter (General)
- Fitter and Turner
- Fitter Welder
- Pressure Welder
- Welder
- Panel Beater
- Vehicle Painter
- Paving Plant Operator
These roles are now part of the formal Green List expansion, opening direct migration pathways for individuals with proven skills and experience in New Zealand’s high-demand trade sectors.
Eligibility Criteria for Work to Residence Visa Applicants
To apply under this pathway, individuals must satisfy a detailed set of eligibility criteria designed to ensure only qualified, experienced, and committed professionals transition into residency:
1. Employment Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be employed in New Zealand or hold a valid job offer in one of the ten newly listed Green List trades.
- Have completed 24 months of work experience in New Zealand in the relevant trade at the time of application.
2. Wage Thresholds
To reflect the skill and value of these occupations, the NZ Government has introduced occupation-specific wage requirements:
| Occupation Group | Minimum Hourly Wage | Annual Salary (Based on 40 hrs/week) |
|---|---|---|
| Metal Fabricators, Fitters, Welders, Machinists | NZD $43.63 | NZD $90,750 |
| Panel Beaters, Vehicle Painters, Paving Operators | NZD $38.59 | NZD $80,267 |
3. General Requirements
Applicants must also:
- Be aged 55 years or younger at the time of residence application
- Meet health and character requirements
- Demonstrate proficiency in English
- Comply with job-specific qualifications and pay standards
Median Wage Threshold Adjustment: What You Must Know
In parallel with the Green List update, Immigration New Zealand is adjusting the wage thresholds for all skilled residence visa categories to align with the latest median wage rate as of June 2024.
- New Median Wage: NZD $33.56 per hour
- Affects:
- Skilled Migrant Category
- Work to Residence Visa
- Straight to Residence Visa
This update ensures immigration policies remain consistent with current labour market demands and economic realities. All skilled visa applicants must meet the revised threshold requirements effective 18 August 2025.
Related article: New Changes to AEWV and Median Wages 2025
Work to Residence: A Strategic Route for Trades Professionals
The Work to Residence Visa under the Green List is designed to provide a structured, assured pathway to permanent residence for tradespeople whose skills are critical to New Zealand’s infrastructure, transport, and manufacturing sectors.
Key Benefits of Work to Residence Pathway
- Clear eligibility roadmap with pre-defined wage and experience criteria
- Recognition of trade qualifications and practical experience
- A permanent settlement opportunity in a country with stable governance, quality of life, and career growth
Strategic Opportunities for Employers and Migrants
For employers, this announcement strengthens access to reliable, skilled workers in key infrastructure and engineering domains. The certainty of the residence pathway may also boost employee retention, engagement, and performance.
For migrants, this update provides a reliable migration roadmap, reducing the ambiguity that often accompanies international work opportunities. With defined thresholds and transparent timelines, applicants can plan with clarity and confidence.
Prepare for Success: Next Steps for Applicants
We recommend the following actionable steps to secure your place under this pathway:
- Confirm your job role matches one of the listed occupations.
- Track your 24-month work experience accurately using payslips, contracts, and tax records.
- Review your hourly wage to ensure it meets the threshold at the time of application.
- Obtain a skills assessment or qualification recognition if applicable.
- Consult a licensed immigration lawyer for New Zealand to guide you through the documentation and timing.
Seize the Pathway to Residency
The addition of ten skilled trades to New Zealand’s Green List Work to Residence pathway marks a transformational opportunity for tradespeople worldwide. It demonstrates the country’s deep appreciation for vocational excellence and its commitment to welcoming skilled individuals who contribute meaningfully to the economy and society.
As this policy takes effect in August 2025, now is the time to align your qualifications, employment, and wage benchmarks to meet the new criteria. With careful planning, your pathway to New Zealand residency is not only achievable, but inevitable.
Looking to Move to NZ Under the Green List? Here’s How We Can Help
At Immigration Chambers, we navigate the complexities of the Green List pathways so you don’t have to. From assessing your eligibility to compiling your application with precision, our immigration experts provide end-to-end support. We stay ahead of policy updates, so you stay ahead of the queue. Let us help turn your trade skills into a pathway to New Zealand residency. Get in touch with our licensed immigration advisers to secure your future in New Zealand.