Photo credit: Tourism NZ Visual Library
In a new policy update announced on Monday 24th February 2025, Immigration New Zealand is set to add primary teachers to the Green list straight to residence pathway, effective 26 March 2025. This new pathway is designed to address the ongoing shortage of primary teachers across the country, with a particular focus on areas like Auckland and Northland.
A new route for talented educators
Previously, primary teachers were part of the Work to Residence pathway. Under the new initiative, eligible primary, intermediate, and Māori-medium primary teachers can apply for residency straight away as soon as they secure a job offer—whether they are applying from offshore or are already working in New Zealand. This direct pathway simplifies the process by removing the need to transition from another visa category. If you’re already working in New Zealand as a primary, intermediate or Māori-medium primary teacher under the Work to Residence pathway, you’ll have the option to apply for a Straight to Residence Visa.
Key eligibility criteria
To benefit from this streamlined process, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Registration and certification: Be a registered teacher in New Zealand and hold a current practising certificate.
- Employment requirement: Possess a confirmed job offer that pays at least $31.61 an hour.
- Teaching role: Work in a primary, intermediate, or Māori-medium primary teaching position.
These measures ensure that only qualified and committed educators contribute to New Zealand’s vibrant educational sector.
Addressing regional shortages
This policy is a targeted response to the acute primary teacher shortages currently affecting the country, especially in high-demand regions such as Auckland and Northland. By expediting the residency process for primary teachers, the Government aims to fill critical vacancies faster, thereby enhancing the quality and continuity of education for young learners across New Zealand.
Implications for the education sector
This change is expected to yield several significant benefits:
- Enhanced recruitment: The direct residency option will likely attract more highly qualified teachers from overseas, increasing the pool of talented educators.
- Improved workforce stability: Allowing teachers already on Work to Residence pathway to convert their status to a Straight to Residence Visa (please confirm this link is okay) offers continuity and long-term security.
- Economic and community growth: By filling essential teaching roles, the initiative supports broader educational outcomes that contribute to social and economic development.
The Government’s decision to move primary teachers to the Straight to Residence pathway marks a strategic effort to modernise immigration policies in line with labour market needs. As New Zealand continues to welcome global talent, this change reinforces the nation’s commitment to providing quality education while addressing workforce shortages in critical regions.
For detailed application guidelines and further information, contact Absolute Immigration NZ today at aisupport@absoluteimmigration.com
