The latest in immigration news sees the unveiling of the “Green Lane,” a special list highlighting roles that not only are in high demand but also pave a faster way to permanent residency.

Under this ‘Direct Residency Route,’ individuals with expertise in Green Lane roles, coupled with an offer from a recognized employer, have the golden ticket to embark on a New Zealand work journey and pursue residency if they match the set benchmarks.

What’s even more intriguing? This applies to offshore candidates as well!

Explore this guide to get the lowdown on the Green Lane eligibility and actionable steps to amplify your chances of a successful application.

Understanding the NZ Green Lane Initiative

Green Lane is essentially a roster of professions earmarked for expedited residency or work-to-residency transition.

Among the myriad of roles, it encompasses healthcare professionals, veterinarians, engineers, and IT experts.

The pay scale for some roles is benchmarked to the median wage, with some professions demanding a higher salary.

Furthermore, this scheme simplifies the hiring process for skilled international candidates through the Recognized Employer Work Visa (REWV).

If the job role falls under the Green Lane and the employer is accredited, job validation can be done sans any advertisement.

Note: For roles paying at least double the median wage, employers can skip job promotions entirely.

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Spotlight on Green Lane Professions

A staggering array of around 100 sought-after roles grace the Green Lane. This encompasses fields like construction, engineering, healthcare, and technology.

However, there’s a caveat: certain roles require two years of work in New Zealand prior to applying for residency via the Work to Residency route.

And in a recent April 2023 update, 32 novel health positions made their debut on the Green Lane, with all existing health roles transitioning to the Direct Residency Route.

Explore the Full Green Lane Professions List here

Green Lane’s Crucial Criteria for NZ Immigration

Securing a work visa under Green Lane isn’t just about holding a relevant job title.

The candidate must receive a job offer that aligns with the designated profession’s prerequisites and demonstrate that their foreign qualifications correspond to the New Zealand standard.

All specific qualification criteria under Green Lane hinge on the New Zealand Qualifications Framework (NZQF).

Candidates must either undergo a New Zealand Qualifications Authority evaluation or possess a qualification listed as assessment-free.

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How to Navigate the NZ Green Lane Visa Process

Starting from 4th July 2022, qualifying migrants can kick off their work visa application if they’re under the Direct Residency segment of the Green Lane.

For those on the Work to Residency trajectory, they can begin their REWV application in July but need a 2-year work completion before pondering residency.

With Immigration New Zealand frequently updating the eligible professions list, it’s wise to keep checking for updates.

All applications will be digitally processed.

NZ Green Lane Visa Charges

The application and immigration levy oscillate between NZD $4,020 to NZD $4,890, based on your application region.

• Band A (NZ): NZD $4290
• Band B (Pacific): NZD $4020
• Band C (World): NZD $4890

Prices include GST but exclude the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL).

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Discover Recognized Employers

Only recognized employers can extend job offers to international talents.

To verify an employer’s status, you can inquire directly during your job application process or ask pertinent questions related to their familiarity with the Green Lane hiring procedure.

Job Offers & The Green Lane: The How-To

Think you fit the Green Lane mold and are eager to connect with a potential employer?

Collaborate with our trusted recruitment allies at NZ Job Match for a detailed assessment and suitable employer match.

Green Lane Visa Turnaround Time

Anticipate a processing window of about 30 days once your employer gains accreditation.

If your employer isn’t accredited yet, it’s prudent to allocate at least a month for their application process.

Partners of Green Lane Visa Recipients: What’s in Store?

Spouses of Green Lane professionals are eligible for open work privileges.

However, from April 2023, spouses not meeting the Green Lane criteria will receive only a visitor visa, which restricts employment.

But worry not! If they secure a role with a recognized employer, they can obtain an employer-specific work visa.

For job search and employer matching, consult NZ Job Match.

Outside the Green Lane Framework?

Being excluded from the Green Lane doesn’t halt your New Zealand dreams. You can still vie for an REWV and eye residency through the Skilled Migrant Category.

Potential Hiccups with Green Lane Applications

While the Green Lane is promising, its intricate nature might pose challenges.

For migrants, discrepancies between qualifications and the New Zealand standard or misaligned job descriptions could be hurdles.

For employers, any deviation in job descriptions from the Immigration NZ norms could spell trouble.