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New Zealand Unveils New Residency Paths for Skilled Migrants

9/24/2025

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Summary

Story summary

New Zealand will introduce two residency pathways for skilled migrants, mid-2026.
The Skilled Work Experience pathway requires five years' experience (including two in New Zealand) with earnings at least 1.1× the median wage; the Trades and Technician pathway requires four years, including 18 months in New Zealand.
Economic Growth Minister Nicola Willis and Immigration Minister Erica Stanford emphasized balance.

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Story summary

New Zealand will introduce two residency pathways for skilled migrants, mid-2026.
The Skilled Work Experience pathway requires five years' experience (including two in New Zealand) with earnings at least 1.1× the median wage; the Trades and Technician pathway requires four years, including 18 months in New Zealand.
Economic Growth Minister Nicola Willis and Immigration Minister Erica Stanford emphasized balance.