Policy Update Overview
What’s changing?
From 18 August 2025, ten new trade occupations will be added to New Zealand’s Green List under the Work to Residence (WTR) visa pathway. This allows eligible migrant workers in these occupations to apply for residency after two years of work with an Accredited Employer.
Why now?
This expansion targets critical skill shortages in manufacturing. By offering a faster pathway to residence, the government hopes to improve productivity, support business growth, and bolster economic resilience across the sector.
Eligible Occupations
From 18 August 2025, the following trade jobs become eligible under the WTR Green List pathway:
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Metal Fabricator
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Metal Machinist (First Class)
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Fitter (General)
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Fitter and Turner
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Fitter-Welder
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Pressure Welder
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Welder
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Panel Beater
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Vehicle Painter
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Paving Plant Operator
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following:
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Hold employment or a valid job offer in one of the newly added Green List occupations.
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Have at least 24 months of full-time work experience in that role in New Zealand.
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Be 55 years or younger at the time of applying.
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Meet health, character, and English language requirements.
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Be earning at or above the occupation-specific wage thresholds:
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$43.63/hour ($90,750/year) for Metal Fabricators, Machinists, Fitters, and Welders.
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$38.59/hour ($80,267/year) for Panel Beaters, Vehicle Painters, and Paving Plant Operators.
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Broader Wage Updates
From 18 August 2025, median wage thresholds across several skilled residence visa categories — including Skilled Migrant Category, Work to Residence, and Straight to Residence — will be updated to $33.56/hour, based on June 2024 data from Statistics New Zealand.
Summary Table
| Aspect | Details (effective 18 Aug 2025) |
|---|---|
| New Trades | 10 roles added to Green List WTR pathway |
| Work Requirement | 24 months full-time in NZ for relevant occupation |
| Age Limit | 55 years or younger |
| Other Requirements | Health, character, English criteria |
| Wage Rates | $43.63/hr for Fabricators/Fitters/Welders; $38.59/hr for Painters/Operators |
| Median Wage Threshold Update | New rate: $33.56/hr for skilled visa categories |
Why It Matters
This change provides a clear and reliable path to residency for skilled tradespeople, helping both migrants and employers:
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Employers can better retain essential staff by offering long-term stability.
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Skilled migrants gain clarity and confidence in planning a settled future in New Zealand.
How SOL Edu – New Zealand Can Help You
At SOL Edu NZ, we focus on helping skilled workers secure their New Zealand visas — including the Work to Residence pathway. Our experienced team can guide you through the entire visa application process, ensure your documents meet Immigration New Zealand requirements, and keep you informed of any policy changes. While we do not find jobs for applicants, we make the visa side of your migration journey smooth, accurate, and stress-free so you can focus on your career.