New Zealand is making it easier for migrant workers to come and live in the country, in its latest attempt to bolster the workforce and economy. More Kiwi businesses will soon be able to attract and retain the workforce they need, with the Government’s introduction of two new skilled migrant residence pathways.
On Tuesday, September 23, 2025, the New Zealand government announced the introduction of these residency routes for skilled migrants. These measures aim to help businesses overcome workforce shortages while making it simpler for experienced and qualified workers to live and work in the country. The new routes are scheduled to take effect from mid-2026.
Economic Growth Minister Nicola Willis highlighted the importance of skilled migrants in driving business growth. “Businesses told us it was too hard for some migrants to gain residence, even when they had crucial skills and significant experience that was not available in the existing workforce. We’re fixing it,” Willis said.
Two New Residency Pathways
From 2026, migrants will be able to apply through the following routes:
Skilled Work Experience Pathway: For migrants in skilled roles with at least five years of directly relevant work experience, including a minimum of two years in New Zealand at 1.1 times the median wage.
Trades and Technician Pathway: For migrants in specified skilled roles who hold a Level 4 or higher qualification, along with at least four years of post-qualification skilled work experience. This includes a minimum of 18 months in New Zealand, where they must have been paid at or above the median wage.
Immigration Minister Erica Stanford explained that the government is balancing the need to attract highly skilled migrants with the priority of safeguarding opportunities for New Zealanders. “This helps Kiwi businesses access the skills and experience needed to grow the economy, while hiring New Zealanders where they can,” Stanford said.
She added, “The Skilled Work Experience pathway is designed to help employers retain experienced workers who are already contributing to New Zealand’s economy and have demonstrated value in their roles. The Trades and Technician pathway recognises the practical skills needed in industries where sub-degree qualifications are widely used and valued.”
Eligibility and Restrictions
To ensure the program remains targeted, the government will place additional eligibility restrictions on certain occupations. Details on these restrictions, as well as the full list of roles eligible under the Trades and Technician pathway, will be released before the scheme opens in 2026.
The government is also making it easier for international students to transition to residency. “We are reducing the amount of time that migrants with New Zealand university qualifications need to work in New Zealand before they can get residence. This is about further incentivizing people to study here – and keep contributing after they graduate,” Stanford said.
Part of Wider Immigration Reforms
These new residency pathways are part of a series of immigration reforms introduced by the government this year. In January, visa rules were relaxed to attract “digital nomads” – remote workers and influencers employed by overseas companies. In February, requirements for the Active Investor Plus visa, also known as the golden visa, were eased to encourage wealthy foreigners to invest and settle in New Zealand.
With these measures, the New Zealand government aims to strengthen its workforce, support local businesses, and create a sustainable migration framework that benefits both the economy and the community.
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