New Zealand Residency Requirements
Complete guide to obtaining permanent residence in New Zealand
Overview
New Zealand offers several pathways to permanent residence for skilled workers, families, investors, and entrepreneurs. Each pathway has specific requirements, processing times, and application procedures.
This guide explains the main residency pathways, eligibility criteria, application process, and documentation requirements to help you navigate the NZ immigration system successfully.
Main Residency Pathways
Skilled Migrant Category
For skilled workers who can contribute to NZ's economy
Key Requirements:
- Age 55 or under
- Meet English language requirements
- Good health and character
- Meet points threshold (currently 160 points)
- Skilled employment or job offer
Work to Residence
For workers in specific occupations or with NZ employers
Key Requirements:
- Valid work visa
- Worked in NZ for 24+ months
- Genuine employment
- Meet salary thresholds
- Employer support
Family Category
For partners, children, or parents of NZ citizens/residents
Key Requirements:
- Eligible sponsor in NZ
- Genuine relationship
- Meet income requirements (for parents)
- Health and character checks
- Financial support undertaking
Investor Category
For high-net-worth individuals investing in NZ
Key Requirements:
- Investor 1: $10M investment, no age limit
- Investor 2: $3M investment, age 65 or under
- Business experience
- English language proficiency
- Spend time in NZ during investment period
Application Process
1. Determine Eligibility
Assess which residency pathway suits your situation
- • Review pathway requirements
- • Calculate points (if applicable)
- • Gather supporting evidence
- • Consider timing and strategy
2. Expression of Interest (EOI)
Submit initial application for some pathways
- • Complete online EOI form
- • Provide evidence of qualifications
- • Pay EOI fee ($530)
- • Wait for invitation to apply
3. Formal Application
Submit complete residence application
- • Complete all application forms
- • Provide original documents
- • Pay application fees ($3,310+)
- • Submit medical and police certificates
4. Assessment
Immigration NZ reviews your application
- • Verification of documents
- • Health and character checks
- • Employment verification
- • Additional information requests
5. Decision
Receive decision on your application
- • Approval with conditions
- • Travel conditions
- • Work rights
- • Pathway to permanent residence
Required Documents
Identity
- Passport
- Birth certificate
- Marriage certificate
- Name change documents
Qualifications
- Degree certificates
- Professional qualifications
- Trade certificates
- NZQA assessment
Employment
- Job offer letter
- Employment contract
- Reference letters
- Payslips and tax records
Health & Character
- Medical certificate
- Chest X-ray
- Police clearances
- Character references
Financial
- Bank statements
- Proof of funds
- Investment evidence
- Income tax returns
Important Considerations
- Timing: Application processing times vary and policies can change
- Costs: Budget for application fees, medical exams, translations, and legal fees
- English: Most pathways require proof of English language proficiency (IELTS or equivalent)
- Health: Serious medical conditions may affect eligibility
- Character: Criminal convictions can impact your application
Need Help with Your Residency Application?
Immigration law is complex. Connect with experienced immigration lawyers who can guide you through the residency process.