New Residence Pathways for Skilled Migrants: A Fresh Start for Businesses and Workers

Hiring people for a job is a challenge in itself and hiring the right people for the job is another headache altogether in the Kiwi businesses. Some roles demand specific expertise that can be successfully filled by only a particular set of skilled people, that is why it can be hard to find these resources locally, leading to a slow growth. But at the same time, many skilled workers who want to settle in New Zealand struggle to find a clear path to residence.

Well now that is about to change. From mid-2026, the Government is planning to introduce two new residence pathways for skilled migrants, offering fairer opportunities for workers while giving employers the confidence to retain the talent they need.

Why Residence Pathways for Skilled Migrants Matter Now

New Zealand’s economy relies on a mix of local talent and international expertise. Migrants not only bring skills that are scarce here, but also share experience, innovation and global perspectives.

Yet, until now, the road to residence hasn’t always recognised their contribution. The new approach directly responds to feedback from businesses that said: “We want to keep the people already making a difference.”

Skilled Work Experience Pathway: Rewarding Commitment

The Skilled Work Experience pathway is aimed at workers who have shown long-term commitment to New Zealand. To qualify, migrants will need:

• At least five years of relevant skilled work experience.

• Two of those years must be in New Zealand, with pay above the average wage level.

It’s a way of saying: if you have built your career here and proven your value, you should have a clear chance to stay.

Trades and Technician Pathway

Not all critical roles need a degree and that's the truth, that is why the Trades and Technician pathway acknowledges that. That is why this leads to a path focusing on industries where technical qualifications and hands-on skills are vital. The applicants must have at least:

• A Level 4 qualification (or higher).

• Four years of post-qualification skilled work experience.

• At least 18 months of that experience in New Zealand, earning at or above the median wage.

This approach ensures industries like construction, engineering and specialised trades continue to thrive with the right expertise in place.

Residence Pathways for Skilled Migrants: Balancing Opportunity and Responsibility

Immigration Minister Erica Stanford stresses that these pathways are about balance. New Zealand must remain a place where citizens are prioritised for jobs, while still welcoming skilled migrants in areas where talent is scarce.

By offering targeted pathways, the Government is designing an immigration system that is smart, flexible and fair. It’s not about opening the floodgates – it’s about making sure the right people, in the right roles, have the chance to build a future here.

Students and Graduates Also Benefit

For international students, the upcoming changes are particularly good news. The Government has reduced the work time graduates with New Zealand university qualifications need before applying for residence. This makes things a lot easier for students who have migrated from other countries to study in New Zealand. This encourages students to stay and contribute longer after graduation.

More Than Policy:

The residence pathways made for skilled migrants is not just about filling the job requirements for the country. It is mainly about the welfare of the people, it is about families who want to call New Zealand their home, with that happening, businesses can be done with confidence. Also  about ensuring that growth does not come at the cost of unfairness or injustice. This is a step is aimed towards achieving a more sustainable workforce, where skills, commitment and contribution are valued and opportunities are shared across the board.