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FRENZ can help you to get residency in New Zealand
Immigration NZ offers two main Skilled Migrant residency pathways:
- Skilled Migrant Residence Tier 2 Green List (SMRGL)
- Skilled Migrant Category (SMC6)
A worker’s previous experience or qualifications will help to determine which is their fastest pathway.
Skilled Migrant Residence Tier 2 Green List
The Skilled Migrant Resident Visa (SMR) now has different categories based on the “Green List” INZ designated, and ever changing, skill shortage occupations.
The different categories are:
- Skilled Residence : Straight to Residence visa
- Skilled Residence : Work to Residence visa
- Care Workforce -Work to Residence visa
- Transport – Work to Residence
The ‘Green List pathway’ outlined in the graphic below offers residence pathways after 24 months of work experience in an eligible occupation, provided criteria such as qualifications, licensing, and wage thresholds are met.
If you think you work a Green list occupation, please get in touch with us to check whether your occupation or salary fits into one of the Skilled Residence categories.
For the dairy industry, residence eligibility requires 3 years’ commercial relevant experience, including at least 24 months’ skilled work in NZ in a Herd Manager + role (in line with Green List title and duties). Check with us to ensure compliance with INZ skilled wage and experience requirements.
Skilled Migrant Category (SMC6)
This pathway is often referred to as SMC6 as it requires accumulating 6 points – 3 based on registered training, qualifications, or income, plus 3 years in a skilled job. Contact us to assess your points and pathway.
Important to Note
INZ will also look at:
- Visa type- typically must be for Accredited Employer with some exceptions
- Personal characteristics (age of 55 or younger at application)
- Work experience
- Salary- at or above relevant median wage
- Health
- Character
- English language
INZ have said that straightforward SMC applications will be decided in 6 to 8 weeks (optimistically)
Looking Ahead: Important Updates for 2026
While the SMC6 pathway remains the current standard, Immigration New Zealand has announced significant refinements coming into effect in August 2026. These changes include new dedicated residence pathways for trades and technicians, adjusted points for NZ-based qualifications, and the introduction of ‘Red’ and ‘Amber’ occupation lists to streamline eligibility. Understanding how these future shifts impact your specific role is essential for long-term planning.
Read more HERE.
Talk to a Licensed Immigration Adviser
Planning ahead is crucial: checking whether your occupation is on the eligible list, making sure pay meets or exceeds those thresholds – including prior pay, and ensuring you are documenting your NZ work history as and how required.
To discuss which are best to you and your personal circumstances, you can talk to one of our Licensed Immigration Advisers.
Email our adviser team or call 021 711 071 .
