NZ Green List Occupation Checker

New Zealand's Green List identifies occupations in genuine shortage and gives them faster, more direct routes to residence than the standard skilled pathway. This tool checks whether your occupation is on the list, which tier it sits in, and what that means for your options.

Free, no signup, immediate result.

What this tool does

The Green List is split into two tiers, and the difference is significant. Tier 1 occupations qualify for Straight to Residence — you can apply for residence directly, without first spending a qualifying period in New Zealand employment. Tier 2 occupations follow Work to Residence, where you work in the role for a set period before becoming eligible. Some occupations carry additional conditions such as occupational registration or a minimum wage above the general threshold. The checker returns your tier, any conditions attached, and the pathway that follows.

Who it's for

Anyone whose occupation might be in shortage — healthcare, engineering, construction and trades, ICT, and education are heavily represented. It's equally useful for New Zealand employers checking whether a role they're recruiting for carries a residence pathway they can offer a candidate.

How to use it

Search by occupation rather than by job title. The list works on occupational classification, and job titles vary far more than classifications do — a "Site Manager" and a "Construction Manager" may be the same classified occupation, or may not be. If your title doesn't return a match, try the duties you actually perform.

Where it stops

Being on the Green List doesn't by itself grant residence. You still need to meet the conditions attached to your occupation, satisfy health and character requirements, and hold employment that meets the requirements. And the list changes — occupations are added and removed as shortages shift, so a result today is not a guarantee for next year.

If your occupation is on the list, that's worth acting on promptly. Book a 30-minute consultation and we'll map out what your pathway actually requires.

How Tier 2 pay and work are assessed

Tier 2 requires 24 months of qualifying full-time New Zealand work within the 30 months immediately before the residence application. The applicable pay rate is fixed using the reference date set by the Work to Residence instructions and must be maintained through the qualifying period.

The occupation may require the median wage, 1.15×, 1.3× or 1.5× the median wage, registration, or another stated requirement. Telecommunications Technician can instead meet the New Zealand Certificate in Telecommunications (Level 3) alternative at the residence application date.

A work-visa grant date can set the rate when qualifying work starts within five months of grant and within the eligible period. If more than one recognised occupation is used, each occupation must meet its own rate at the established reference date.