Learn about the 2024 updates to New Zealand’s Work to Residence and Green List visas, including new roles for the Transport Sector and changes to the eligibility for bus and truck drivers.
New Zealand Announces Changes to Work to Residence and Green List Occupations
Explore the 2024 updates to New Zealand’s Work to Residence and Green List visas, including new roles for the transport sector and engineering professions.
In 2024, the New Zealand government is introducing key updates to its Work to Residence and Green List visa programs. These changes impact various sectors, including transport and engineering, to better align with New Zealand’s workforce needs. The updates focus on bus and truck drivers and introduce new roles to the Green List, making it easier for skilled professionals to live and work in New Zealand.
Work to Residence Changes for Bus and Truck Drivers
One of the significant changes announced is the modification of the Transport Sector Work to Residence visa. Starting 7 April 2024, bus and truck drivers who apply for an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) or begin working on an open work visa will no longer be eligible to apply for a Transport Work to Residence visa.
However, those who already hold an AEWV, have applied for one (and are later approved), or are on open work visas who have already started working as bus or truck drivers will still be eligible for the Transport Work to Residence visa. This change aims to better regulate the pathway for transport sector workers, ensuring that the visa system reflects current labor market needs.
Green List Changes: New Roles Added
On 8 April 2024, the government will add 6 new roles to the Green List, which is designed to fast-track permanent residency for applicants in high-demand occupations. These roles cover a variety of sectors, from aviation engineering to information technology.
Straight to Residence roles added to the Green List:
- Aviation Engineer (Avionics, Aeronautical, Aerospace Engineer)
- Naval Architect (also known as Marine Designer)
- ICT Database and Systems Administrator
- Mechanical Engineering Technician
- Aircraft Maintenance Engineer
These roles will qualify for Straight to Residence visas, enabling skilled workers in these professions to move directly to permanent residency.
Work to Residence roles added to the Green List:
- Corrections Officer
These roles will be eligible for the Work to Residence visa, allowing individuals to work in New Zealand for a set period before applying for permanent residency.
Roles Not Added to the Green List
Some previously discussed roles will not be added to the Green List or the Construction and Infrastructure Sector Agreement. These include:
Not added to the Green List:
- Paving Plant Operator
- Metal Fabricator
- Pressure Welder
- Welder
- Fitter (General)
- Fitter and Turner
- Fitter-Welder
- Metal Machinist (First Class)
- Panel Beater
- Vehicle Painter
- Road Roller Operator
Additionally, the Construction and Infrastructure Sector Agreement will not move forward with the addition of the following roles:
- Driller’s Assistant
- Earthmoving Labourer
- Earthmoving Plant Operator (general)
- Linemarker
- Machine Operators (not elsewhere classified)
- Mechanic’s Assistant
- Road Traffic Controller
These changes reflect the government’s ongoing efforts to match New Zealand’s immigration policies with the labor market’s evolving needs.
Streamlined Pathways for Skilled Workers
The Work to Residence and Green List changes announced for 2024 will help streamline New Zealand’s immigration system, offering more targeted pathways for skilled professionals in high-demand roles. While some occupations are no longer eligible for residency through specific visa pathways, the introduction of new Green List roles and changes for bus and truck drivers create new opportunities for workers looking to build a future in New Zealand.
