Green List update: ten skilled trades added to Work to Residence pathway

Immigration New Zealand has announced that 10 additional trade occupations will be included in the Green List Work to Residence pathway from 18 August 2025, in a move aimed at addressing skill shortages and providing clearer residence pathways for in-demand trades professionals. 

This change allows eligible workers in key trades to apply for residence after working in New Zealand for 24 months in their listed occupation. The Green List is part of Immigration New Zealand’s targeted strategy to attract highly skilled workers needed to support national infrastructure and economic priorities. 

New Green List trades occupations 

From 18 August 2025, the following occupations will be added to the Green List Work to Residence pathway: 

• Metal Fabricator 

• Metal Machinist (First Class) 

• Fitter (General) 

• Fitter and Turner 

• Fitter Welder 

• Pressure Welder 

• Welder 

• Panel Beater 

• Vehicle Painter 

• Paving Plant Operator 

Who can apply 

Applicants must meet the following criteria to be eligible for the Work to Residence visa under the new Green List additions: 

• Hold current employment or a valid job offer in one of the listed occupations 

• Have worked in the relevant occupation in New Zealand for at least 24 months 

• Be aged 55 or under at the time of residence application 

• Meet health, character, and English language requirements 

• Satisfy occupation-specific wage thresholds 

Wage requirements 

Applicants must be paid at or above the following wage levels to be eligible: 

• $43.63/hour (or $90,750/year) for Metal Fabricators, Welders, Fitters, and Machinists 

• $38.59/hour (or $80,267/year) for Paving Plant Operators, Panel Beaters, and Vehicle Painters 

These thresholds are set to ensure that applicants are working in skilled, high-value roles that match the Green List’s objectives. 

Skilled Residence visa wage threshold updates 

In line with its annual review, Immigration New Zealand will also update wage thresholds across skilled Residence visa categories, including: 

• Skilled Migrant Category 

• Work to Residence 

• Straight to Residence 

Effective 18 August 2025, wage levels linked to the median wage will reflect the updated figure of $33.56/hour, based on data from Statistics New Zealand (June 2024). These changes ensure that residence eligibility continues to align with current labour market conditions and economic needs. 

At Absolute Immigration NZ, we welcome these updates as a step towards greater clarity and opportunity for trades professionals in New Zealand. We’re here to help both individuals and employers understand the implications and navigate the application process confidently. 

For expert immigration support, contact us at : aisupport@absoluteimmigration.com