THE GREEN LIST – WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

The Green List aims to showcase the most sought-after skills in New Zealand, making it easier for individuals in specific occupations to obtain visas. However, how frequently is it updated? Not nearly enough. And does being included on the list guarantee employment? Not really.

This week, we’re diving deeper into what the Green List truly entails, how it functions for both Temporary and Resident Visa pathways, and some of the hurdles it poses for applicants. If you’re curious whether your occupation is listed, we have a Green List Checker available on our website—but we’ll get to that shortly.

What is the Green List?

Using lists in the visa application process isn’t a new concept. Over the years, New Zealand has introduced various shortage lists, all designed to pinpoint roles that are challenging to fill locally. The Green List is simply a refreshed version of the Long-Term Skill Shortage List (LTSSL), which previously served the same function—highlighting in-demand occupations and providing those workers with specific visa options.

What sets the Green List apart? It provides a more straightforward path to residency for certain skilled professionals.

How Does the Green List Work?

The Green List is divided into two tiers:

• Tier 1: These are high-demand occupations that allow applicants who meet the criteria to apply directly for residency (Straight to Residence).
• Tier 2: These roles are still in demand, but applicants must work in New Zealand for a specified duration before they can qualify for residency (Work to Residence).

The list serves two purposes:

1. 1. Immigration New Zealand (INZ) already acknowledges there’s a shortage, therefore if you have a job offer from an accredited employer and fulfill the list requirements, you can apply for a work visa without the employer having to advertise the position.
   2. If you fall under Tier 1, you can skip the work visa stage and apply straight for residence once more with no need for your employer to show lack.

Still, being on the list of jobs does not mean you automatically meet the criteria. You must still meet the particular requirements of your job.
Your employment is definitely on the Green List if, to give an example, you are a Diesel Motor Mechanic. However to make the most of the two-year pathway to permanent residence, you have to be a vehicle inspector by the NZ Transport Agency or have a qualification similar to a Level 4 NZ Certificate in Heavy Automotive Engineering. Having a job offer alone is not enough.

Some think they’re qualified just by being on the Green List, that is not true.

Is having a spot on the Green List equal to having many job offers?

Not always.

A shortage list is designed to identify roles that are hard to fill locally. The government refreshes this list using feedback from industry organizations that represent their fields. However, the issue is that these updates occur less frequently than necessary, even as the job market evolves quickly.

Sectors such as healthcare and IT always need employees. Others, like construction, vary based on the economic circumstances.

Many immigrants believe that if their occupation is on the Green List, there have to be many possibilities. This is not always true. Consider teaching, for instance. Demand varies often depending on such elements as local teachers going back home, population changes, school funding, and even policies on individual school hiring.

Conversely, some healthcare careers always demand employees, so if you are in one of those industries, chances are usually more constant.

Bottom line? The Green List shows demand, but it does not guarantee that employment is readily available. It is like consulting a long-range weather forecast; you have a rough idea but events might change fast.

What If Your Job Isn’t on the Green List?

The most common misunderstanding is that you may not relocate to New Zealand if your profession is not on the Green List. That is just not the case.
Beyond the Green List, there exist several skilled migrant pathways:

• The Points Based System: This is the main way for skilled immigrants to meet requirements. It covers many jobs from engineers to office managers.
• The Transport Sector Option: For current New Zealand employees.
• The Care Workforce Sector: A route specifically designed for caregivers.

Ironically, demand for some jobs outside the GreenList could exceed those that are on the list. Because the pace of the labor market is fast and not every business has the power needed for listing.
Even if you are not on the Green List, usually there is a route for you if you have the proper skill set, job prospects, and potential earnings.

Moving Forward

For anyone contemplating relocation to New Zealand, this is the best strategy:

1. Understand the visa process—whether your occupation is on the Green List or not, familiarize yourself with the criteria and options open to you.
2. Search the job market – Listings do not always accurately mirror realtime demand, so check out current job openings and company requirements.
3. Getting a job offer is not instantaneous; one should be ready for the process. One needs perseverance, patience, and great use.

Though New Zealand still requires skilled labor, the employment situation is changing. At 5.1%, unemployment is lower, therefore competition is stiffer than in the past. The key is being aware, flexible, and always ready to act.
Want to explore your options? Call us right now!