2021 Resident Visa

The New Zealand Government has announced a new one-off residence visa pathway, the 2021 Resident Visa, for some temporary work visa holders currently in New Zealand. 

Some people arriving in New Zealand between 30 September 2021 and 31 July 2022 on long-term critical purpose visas may also be eligible for this new visa. Partners and dependants can be included as part of these residence applications.

The 2021 Resident Visa provides a residence pathway for up to 165,000 migrants, including more than 5000 health and aged care workers, about 9000 primary industry workers, and more than 800 teachers.

The 2021 Resident Visa will be available to most holders of work-related visas – including Essential Skills, Work to Residence, and Post Study Work visas – and their immediate family members.

Eligibility

Applicants must have met the criteria on 29 September 2021.

To be eligible you must:

• have been in New Zealand on 29 September 2021, and
• be on an eligible visa or have applied for an eligible visa on or before 29 September 2021 that is later granted.

You must also meet one of the three criteria:

• have lived in New Zealand for three or more years, or
• earn $27 per hour or more, or
• work in a role on a scarce list.

If you meet the criteria for eligibility but are in Australia and have been unable to return to New Zealand by 29 September 2021, you may be considered eligible.

Check eligibility via link below:

https://www.immigration.govt.nz/formshelp/one-off-residence-checker