New Green List Update: 10 Trades Occupations Added to Work to Residence Pathway from August 2025

The New Zealand Government has recently announced exciting changes to the Green List – a list of high-demand occupations that offer streamlined pathways to residence.

Starting 18 August 2025, ten new trade occupations will be added to the Work to Residence (WTR) pathway. This update is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to attract and retain skilled workers who are essential to the country’s economy and infrastructure.

New Trades Occupations Added to the Green List (WTR Pathway):

• Metal Fabricator

• Metal Machinist (First Class)

• Fitter (General)

• Fitter and Turner

• Fitter Welder

• Pressure Welder

• Welder

• Panel Beater

• Vehicle Painter

• Paving Plant Operator

This change means that eligible workers in these roles who meet the criteria will have the opportunity to apply for residence through the Work to Residence pathway after working in New Zealand for 24 months in a relevant role.

Who Is Eligible to Apply for Residence?

From 18 August 2025, applicants can apply for a Work to Residence Visa if they:

• Have a current job or a valid job offer in one of the newly added Green List occupations

• Are aged 55 or under at the time of applying

• Meet standard health, character, and English language requirements

• Have at least 24 months of relevant work experience in New Zealand in one of the listed occupations

• Meet the minimum wage threshold specific to their occupation

Updated Wage Thresholds

To qualify under the Work to Residence route, applicants must be paid a rate that reflects the skill and experience expected for their trade:

• For Metal Fabricators, Fitters, Machinists, and Welders:Minimum pay is $43.63/hour or $90,750/year (based on a 40-hour week)

• For Paving Plant Operators, Panel Beaters, and Vehicle Painters:Minimum pay is $38.59/hour or $80,267/year

These wage thresholds are designed to ensure that only applicants with the appropriate level of skill and experience are eligible for residence.