The New Zealand government recently announced a new revision to the immigration government, adding more occupations to the “Green List” (Green List), including doctors, nurses, and midwives. It is expected that in March 2023, architects, auditors, and primary and secondary school teachers will also join the “green list”, which will greatly increase the chances of Hong Kong people successfully relocating to New Zealand.

What is the Green List?

The New Zealand immigration green list refers to the list of visa categories issued by the New Zealand government that apply to certain countries and regions. Citizens of these countries and regions can quickly obtain New Zealand permanent residence through these visa categories. Currently, there are about 47 places/countries applicable to the Green List, and Hong Kong is one of them.

New Zealand’s “Green List” has two categories. The first category is “Straight to Residence”, which means that the applicant is directly granted the right of residence in New Zealand. The second category is “Work to Residence”. Applicants need to work in New Zealand for two years before they can apply for residency.

Three common ways to immigrate to New Zealand

1) Investment immigration to New Zealand

1. Investor Plus

The net assets held by yourself/with your partner are not less than 10 million in New Zealand.

2. Investors

The age needs to be under the age of 66, the net assets of yourself/your partner are not less than 3 million New Zealand, have three years or more of business experience, and get an average score of 3 or above in IELTS.

2) Skilled immigration to New Zealand

Applicants need to be between 20 and 56 years old with skills/education recognized by the New Zealand government. Applicants also need to achieve an average score of 6.5 or above in IELTS and pass a non-criminal record check to be eligible.

The New Zealand immigration application process is as follows:

1. Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
2. Waiting for the result of the EOI draw
3. Successfully selected applicants will be invited to apply
4. Provide relevant supporting documents
5. Conduct screening/interview
6. Obtain residence and job visa

3) Spouse immigrating to New Zealand

The applicant’s spouse needs to be a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident, the two are legally recognized couples, and the two are currently living together. Applicants who have had no other spouses in the past 5 years are eligible if they can provide proof of sufficient assets or income.