Current Tier 2 occupation
Confirm the current rule, then prepare evidence that is specific, consistent and easy for a decision-maker to follow.
Clear guidance. Transparent costs. Qualified professional support.
RESIDENCE PATHWAYS · REVIEWED 19 AUGUST 2026
Work to Residence Visa
A Green List pathway for eligible Tier 2 workers after the required period of qualifying New Zealand employment.
WHO THIS ROUTE MAY SUIT
Begin with fit—not a checklist.
Workers in current Tier 2 Green List roles who can establish the required work history. This page is an orientation, not personalised immigration advice. Requirements, fees, processing times and visa conditions can change.
THREE EARLY CHECKS
What usually needs careful attention
Required qualifying work period
Confirm the current rule, then prepare evidence that is specific, consistent and easy for a decision-maker to follow.
Employer, registration and pay evidence
Confirm the current rule, then prepare evidence that is specific, consistent and easy for a decision-maker to follow.
PARTNERS & CHILDREN
Plan the family pathway at the beginning.
Family can potentially be included at residence stage if the applicable requirements are met.
Do not wait until the principal application is ready before checking family eligibility, evidence, timing, school arrangements and funds. The strongest plan treats the family as one connected journey while keeping each visa application legally separate.
Explore family and visitor routes →WHAT SORENA CAN DO
Organise the case. Keep professional responsibility clear.
- Route assessmentIdentify whether this category is relevant before collecting the wrong evidence.
- Evidence planningBuild a case-specific document plan instead of relying on a generic internet checklist.
- Professional reviewWhere regulated immigration advice is required, the work is handled by an appropriately licensed New Zealand professional.
- Connected follow-throughCoordinate study, employer or family steps in the Sorena journey without storing sensitive immigration documents on the public site.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Questions about the Work to Residence Visa
Who is the Work to Residence Visa for?+
Workers in current Tier 2 Green List roles who can establish the required work history.
What should I check before considering the Work to Residence Visa?+
Start with current tier 2 occupation, required qualifying work period, and employer, registration and pay evidence. The full legal requirements must be checked against the current Immigration New Zealand instructions.
Can my family come with me on the Work to Residence Visa?+
Family can potentially be included at residence stage if the applicable requirements are met.
Does Sorena Visa guarantee approval of a Work to Residence Visa?+
No. Sorena Visa cannot guarantee any immigration decision. Immigration New Zealand decides applications under the rules and evidence that apply at the time.
PRIMARY SOURCE
Check the rule where the rule lives.
Our editorial team last reviewed this guide on 19 August 2026. Immigration New Zealand remains the source of truth for current eligibility, conditions, fees and processing information.
PERSONAL ASSESSMENT
Your circumstances decide the route.
Tell us your goal, history and family situation. We will identify the right next professional step.
Start a confidential enquiry →