Residence Visa
Pathways to living in New Zealand on a long-term or permanent basis.
What is a Residence Visa?
A Residence Visa allows a person to live in New Zealand on an ongoing basis, subject to visa conditions and current immigration requirements.
Residence visas are granted by Immigration New Zealand and are typically based on factors such as skills, employment, family relationships, or investment.
Different residence pathways apply depending on your circumstances, and each pathway has its own eligibility requirements and criteria.
What does Immigration New Zealand consider?
When assessing a Residence Visa application, Immigration New Zealand will generally consider whether:
- you meet the eligibility requirements for the specific residence category
- your skills, qualifications, or experience meet relevant criteria (where applicable)
- your relationship meets the required standard (for family-based applications)
- you meet health and character requirements
The requirements and assessment process will vary depending on the residence pathway.
What can affect a Residence Visa application?
Residence applications are often more detailed and may involve a higher level of scrutiny. Issues may arise where:
- eligibility criteria are not clearly met or evidenced
- supporting documentation is incomplete or inconsistent
- relationship evidence is insufficient (for partnership or family-based applications)
- employment or qualification requirements are not clearly demonstrated
Because residence visas involve long-term outcomes, applications are typically assessed carefully against current immigration instructions.
Residence Visa services we provide
Skilled Migrant Category Residence Visa
Apply for residence in New Zealand based on skills, qualifications, and work experience.
Green List Straight to Residence Visa
Apply directly for residence if your role is on the Green List and meets the relevant criteria.
Green List Work to Residence Visa
Work in New Zealand in a Green List role and apply for residence after meeting eligibility requirements.
Partnership Residence Visa
Apply for residence in New Zealand based on a genuine and stable relationship with an eligible partner.
Parent Residence Visa
Apply for residence in New Zealand based on your relationship with an eligible child who is a citizen or resident.
Parent Retirement Residence Visa
Apply for residence in New Zealand as a parent with qualifying investment and financial capacity.
Examples of Residence Visa cases
We have assisted clients with a range of Residence Visa situations. The examples below illustrate how different circumstances may be approached.
Case 1 – Skilled residence pathway
An applicant applied for residence based on their skills and employment. The application required detailed documentation relating to qualifications, experience, and role requirements.
Case 2 – Green List role
A client applied under a Green List pathway. The application required confirmation that the role met the relevant criteria and supporting evidence aligned with immigration requirements.
Case 3 – Partnership-based residence
A partnership residence application required comprehensive evidence to demonstrate a genuine and stable relationship over time.
Case 4 – Parent-based application
A parent applied for residence based on their relationship with a child in New Zealand. The application required documentation to confirm eligibility and supporting criteria.
Not sure which Residence Visa applies to you?
Different Residence Visa types apply depending on your situation.
You can use our quick assessment tool or contact us to discuss your options.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a temporary visa and a residence visa?
Temporary visas allow you to stay in New Zealand for a limited period, while residence visas allow you to live in New Zealand on an ongoing basis, subject to conditions.Do all work visas lead to residence?
Not all work visas lead to residence. Some pathways may provide a route to residence, depending on eligibility and the visa category.How long does a residence application take?
Processing times can vary depending on the visa category, individual circumstances, and current processing conditions.Can I include my family in a residence application?
In some cases, partners and dependent children may be included in a residence application, depending on the visa category and eligibility requirements.What happens if my residence application is declined?
If an application is declined, Immigration New Zealand will usually provide reasons. Depending on the circumstances, it may be possible to consider other options.