At Immigration Chambers, we specialize in providing comprehensive support for individuals aiming to secure residency in New Zealand under the Straight to Residence Visa pathway. This visa provides a unique opportunity for highly skilled professionals in Tier 1 Green List roles to settle permanently in New Zealand, accompanied by their immediate families. Below is a detailed, step-by-step guide to help you understand the process, eligibility criteria, documentation requirements, and post-visa benefits of Straight to Residence Visa NZ.
Why Choose the Straight to Residence Visa NZ?
The Straight to Residence Visa NZ is designed to address skill shortages in New Zealand by attracting professionals to high-demand occupations. Approved applicants are granted immediate residency status, and after two years, they become eligible for a Permanent Resident Visa, allowing indefinite re-entry and stay.
Who Can Apply for Straight to Residence Visa NZ
Key Eligibility Requirements
Age Limit
Applicants must be 55 years old or younger at the time of applying. Your age is confirmed using a valid identity document such as a passport.
Employment in a Tier 1 Green List Role
You must either:
- Hold a job offer from an accredited employer, or
- Be currently employed in a Tier 1 role listed on the Green List.
The job offer must:
- Be permanent, or
- Be fixed-term for at least 12 months, or
- Be based on continuous service contracts for 6 months or more.
Employer Accreditation
Your employer must be listed as an INZ-accredited employer. Employment must also meet specific wage or qualification thresholds as defined under each Green List occupation.
Check this out:
Accredited Employer NZ: How to Secure Employment with Recognized Companies?
Contractors and Wage Thresholds
Contractors must:
- Demonstrate 10 years of relevant experience.
- Be earning 50% more than the wage threshold applicable to permanent employees.
International Qualifications
If your qualifications were gained outside New Zealand:
- You may need an International Qualification Assessment (IQA) by NZQA.
- Exceptions include Washington Accord or Sydney Accord recognized qualifications.
Health and Character Requirements
Medical Requirements
All applicants (and included family members) must undergo:
- Medical examination.
- Chest X-ray, depending on age.
Age-specific medical checks:
| Age Group | Medical Exam | Chest X-ray | Blood Test |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0-10 | Yes | Not Required (unless requested) | No |
| 11-14 | Yes | Yes | Optional (if requested) |
| 15+ | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Medical evidence must be less than 3 months old.
Character Requirements
Applicants aged 17 or older must submit:
- Police certificates from:
- Countries of citizenship.
- Any country lived in for 12+ months over the last 10 years.
Note: Police certificates must be less than 6 months old.
Can I Include my Family in a Straight to Residence Visa NZ?
Yes, you may include your partner and dependent children (aged ≤ 24) in the application.
Proof Required:
- Marriage/Birth certificates.
- Police certificates, if applicable.
- Medical reports and English proficiency evidence (see below).
English Language Proficiency
Main Applicant
Two accepted ways to prove English fluency:
- By citizenship, education, or qualifications.
- By submitting an English language test within the last 2 years meeting INZ minimum scores.
Partner and Children (16+ years)
They must:
- Meet English requirements via education or test, OR
- Prepay for English language tuition in New Zealand.
Required Documents Checklist
Personal Identification
- Copy of your passport or one acceptable photo.
Medical and Character Documents
- Medical certificates and chest X-rays (if applicable).
- Police certificates from required countries.
Job & Employment Evidence
- Employment agreement, offer letter, or contracts.
- Details on job title, pay, work hours, and duration.
- Proof of qualifications, experience, or IQA, if needed.
English Language Evidence
- Test results or education-based proof.
- Payment confirmation for language tuition (for family if required).
Family Documentation
- Identity and relationship proof.
- Translated documents (if not originally in English).
Straight to Residence Visa NZ – How to Apply
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
Ensure all documents are complete, valid, and translated. Delays or inaccuracies in identity documents can lead to rejection.
Step 2: Submit Online
Create or log into your Immigration NZ account, upload documents, and pay the application fee.
Also check NZ Permanent Resident Visa applications are now Online
Step 3: Wait for Processing
INZ may request:
- Original passport.
- Additional documents, such as bank statements or salary slips.
Step 4: Application Outcome
If approved, you’ll receive an eVisa.
Post-Visa: Arriving & Living in New Zealand
Entry Permission
Before arrival:
- Complete the NZ Traveller Declaration (NZTD).
- Meet biosecurity and customs requirements.
You may be refused entry if:
- You fail to meet character requirements.
- Your circumstances have changed post-approval.
Conditions While in NZ
You can:
- Live, work, and study in New Zealand indefinitely.
- Travel freely for 2 years from your first entry.
Note: After two years, apply for a Permanent Resident Visa for unlimited travel rights.
Transitioning to Permanent Residency
You become eligible for a Permanent Resident Visa after holding your Straight to Residence Visa NZ for two consecutive years.
Benefits include:
- Unlimited re-entry rights.
- No expiration as long as your passport is valid.
If outside New Zealand when travel conditions expire, your visa will lapse.
Final Thoughts
The Straight to Residence Visa NZ is a fast-track route for skilled professionals who meet strict eligibility criteria. We at Immigration Chambers ensure that your application process is smooth, accurate, and optimized for success. From preparing complex documentation to assessing English proficiency and managing family inclusion, Immigration Chambers offers end-to-end legal and immigration guidance.
Ready to Begin? Let’s Get Started Today!
Get in touch with our experienced Immigration Adviser Auckland, to assess your eligibility, streamline your application, and help you settle confidently in New Zealand.
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Call: +64 9 218 9991
Offices: Auckland, New Zealand | Melbourne, VIC, Australia