Move to New Zealand for Work With Family January 2025 Onwards

New Zealand has long been an attractive destination for skilled professionals seeking a high quality of life, robust career opportunities, and a welcoming environment for families. In 2025, the country continues to invite international professionals to address its labor shortages across various industries.

So, if you’re considering a move to New Zealand for work with your family, this detailed guide provides all the information you need to navigate the process in 2025, from pathways to policy updates, in-demand occupations, and step-by-step guidance.

Why New Zealand?

New Zealand is actively seeking skilled professionals to work and settle in the country. Recent immigration reforms have streamlined the application process, making it more accessible for qualified individuals. With an emphasis on attracting highly skilled workers, the government has introduced visa pathways and programs tailored to professionals in critical industries. Moving to New Zealand not only offers excellent career prospects but also provides an opportunity to bring your family along, ensuring a seamless transition to your new life.

Recent Immigration Policy Updates for 2025

New Zealand has introduced several changes to its immigration policies to attract skilled workers:

• Removal of Median Wage Requirement: Employers can hire skilled migrants without meeting previous wage thresholds.
• Reduced Work Experience Criteria: Required work experience has been reduced from three years to two for many visa categories.
• Extended Visa Durations: Visa durations for certain roles have been increased, offering more stability for migrants.
• Streamlined Green List Pathway: Faster processing for priority roles in critical shortage areas.

These reforms aim to make New Zealand more accessible to skilled professionals and their families.

Pathways to Move to New Zealand for Work With Family in 2025

New Zealand offers several work visa pathways for skilled professionals and their families. Here are the key options:

1# Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Resident Visa

• • A points-based visa for skilled workers with job offers in industries experiencing shortages.
  • Points are awarded for age, qualifications, work experience, and employment offers.
  • Allows applicants to live, work, and bring family members to New Zealand.

2# Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)

• • For professionals with job offers from accredited employers.
  • Provides an easier pathway to residence for critical roles.
  • Recent changes have simplified the process for both workers and employers.

3# Green List Pathways

• • Designed for individuals in occupations experiencing critical shortages.
  • Two pathways:
    • Straight to Residence: Eligible after working in a Green List role for 24 months.
    • Work to Residence: Eligible for residence after completing a fixed duration of work.

4# Specific Purpose Work Visa

• • Suitable for individuals undertaking specific roles, such as contractors or project-based workers.

5# Partnership Work Visa

• • Open work visa for partners of work visa holders, allowing them to work for any employer in New Zealand.

6# Long-Term Skill Shortage List Work Visa

• • For professionals in long-term shortage roles.
  • Provides a pathway to permanent residency after two years of work.

Occupations in High Demand in New Zealand (2025)

New Zealand updates its skill shortage lists (Ref) annually to meet labor market needs and here are some of the high-demand roles and their average salaries:

These salaries can vary based on location, experience, and employer. For a full list of in-demand roles, check the New Zealand Skill Shortage List https://www.immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas/preparing-a-visa-application/working-in-nz/skilled-work/skill-shortage-list-checker.

Step-by-Step Guide to Moving to New Zealand With Family

Here is a detailed breakdown of the process:

1# Job Search

• • Identify occupations that match your qualifications on New Zealand’s skill shortage lists.
  • Use platforms like Seek, Trade Me Jobs, and New Kiwis to find job openings.
  • Reach out directly to accredited employers for better chances of securing a role.

2# Obtain a Job Offer

• • Secure a formal job offer that meets visa requirements.
  • Ensure the employer is accredited if applying under AEWV.

3# Apply for a Relevant Work Visa

• • Choose the appropriate visa (e.g., AEWV, SMC, or Green List Pathway).
  • Prepare required documents:
    • Valid passport
    • Employment contract
    • Proof of qualifications and experience
    • Police clearance and medical certificates

4# Apply for Family Visas

• • Include your spouse and dependent children in your visa application.
  • Ensure they meet health, character, and (if required) English language requirements.

5# Relocate to New Zealand

• • Plan your relocation, including accommodation, schooling, and community integration.
  • Familiarize yourself with living costs and facilities in cities like Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch.

6# Pathway to Permanent Residency

• • After fulfilling residency requirements, apply for permanent residency.
  • Many pathways (e.g., Green List roles) allow for expedited PR processing.

7# Naturalization and Citizenship

• • After holding permanent residency for the required time, apply for New Zealand citizenship to enjoy full rights and privileges.

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