20 professions eligible for New Zealand’s Straight-to-Residency program 

New Zealand’s Straight to Residency program is opening doors for skilled professionals.

With this program, qualified individuals can bypass long visa processing times and secure permanent residency while contributing to the local workforce.

DAAD Scholarships states that this program seeks to attract skilled workers in important fields by offering an easier route to residency.

Professionals in designated Tier 1 occupations are informed that they can apply to settle in New Zealand, enjoying both lucrative salaries and the opportunity for their families to join them.

High salaries and promising careers 

The Straight to Residency program targets professionals in various fields, offering substantial salaries that can range significantly based on the occupation.

For instance, reports relay that anesthetists can earn between NZD 250,000 and 400,000 annually, while cardiothoracic surgeons might see salaries soar above NZD 500,000.

Chemical engineers and civil engineers can also expect competitive earnings, with salaries ranging from NZD 70,000 to 150,000, depending on experience and qualifications.

The program, as noted, is designed to attract skilled individuals who can fill critical roles in our economy.

Eligibility and Application Process

Reports note that in order to qualify for the Straight to Residency program, applicants must possess specific educational credentials and experience relevant to their profession.

To elaborate, medical professionals must hold a recognized medical degree and appropriate registration with the Medical Council of New Zealand.

Also, engineers are typically required to have a degree in their field and may need to register with Engineering New Zealand.

Interested applicants are informed that the application process involves; 

• Securing employment in one of the listed Tier 1 professions.

• Completing the necessary documentation, and,

• Meeting the health and character requirements set by immigration authorities.

The program simplifies the residency pathway, allowing families to settle together right from the start.

List of Tier 1 Professions 

Starting November 2024, according to the following 20 Tier 1 professions qualify for New Zealand’s Straight to Residency program:

1. Anesthetist

• Salary: NZD 250,000 – 400,000
• Education: Medical degree in Anesthesiology, registration required.
• Role: Administers anesthesia during surgeries.

2. Cardiothoracic Surgeon

• Salary: NZD 300,000 – 500,000+
• Education: Medical degree in Cardiothoracic Surgery, registration required.
•  Role: Performs surgeries on the heart and chest organs.

3. Chemical Engineer

• Salary: NZD 80,000 – 150,000
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering or related field.
• Role: Designs chemical processes for various industries.

4. Civil Engineer

• Salary: NZD 70,000 – 140,000
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or related field.
• Role: Oversees construction of infrastructure projects.

5. Construction Project Manager

• Salary: NZD 90,000 – 180,000
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management or related field.
• Role: Manages construction projects from start to finish.

6. Dentist

• Salary: NZD 120,000 – 250,000+
• Education: Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) or equivalent, registration required.
• Role: Diagnoses and treats dental conditions.

7. Dermatologist

• Salary: NZD 200,000 – 350,000+
• Education: Medical degree in Dermatology, registration required.
• Role: Treats skin conditions.

8. Electrical Engineer

• Salary: NZD 75,000 – 150,000
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or related field.
• Role: Develops and maintains electrical systems.

9. General Practitioner

• Salary: NZD 150,000 – 250,000+
• Education: Medical degree, registration required.
• Role: Provides primary healthcare services.

10. Gastroenterologist

• Salary: NZD 250,000 – 400,000+
• Education: Medical degree in Gastroenterology, registration required.
• Role: Diagnoses digestive system diseases.

11. Geotechnical Engineer

• Salary: NZD 80,000 – 160,000
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Geotechnical Engineering or related field.
• Role: Assesses soil and rock for construction.

12. ICT Security Specialist

• Salary: NZD 90,000 – 180,000
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or related field.
• Role: Protects computer systems from cyber threats.

13. Internal Medicine Specialist

• Salary: NZD 200,000 – 350,000+
• Education: Medical degree in Internal Medicine, registration required.
• Role: Treats adult diseases.

14. Medical Laboratory Scientist

• Salary: NZD 60,000 – 120,000
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Medical Laboratory Science, registration required.
• Role: Conducts lab tests for disease diagnosis.

15. Mental Health Nurse

• Salary: NZD 65,000 – 110,000
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Nursing, specialization in mental health, registration required.
• Role: Provides care for mental health conditions.

16. Midwife

• Salary: NZD 60,000 – 100,000
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Midwifery, registration required.
• Role: Supports women during pregnancy and childbirth.

17. Neurologist

• Salary: NZD 250,000 – 400,000+
• Education: Medical degree in Neurology, registration required.
• Role: Diagnoses and treats neurological conditions.

18. Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

• Salary: NZD 200,000 – 350,000+
• Education: Medical degree in Obstetrics and Gynaecologist, registration required.
• Role: Manages women’s health and childbirth.

19. Pediatrician

• Salary: NZD 180,000 – 300,000+
• Education: Medical degree in Pediatrics, registration required.
• Role: Provides medical care for children.

20. Psychiatrist

• Salary: NZD 200,000 – 350,000+
• Education: Medical degree in Psychiatry, registration required.
• Role: Treats mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders.

Benefits of moving to New Zealand 

Choosing to relocate to New Zealand not only offers financial benefits but also enhances the overall quality of life.

Reports give that the country is recognized for its safe communities, access to education, and stunning natural landscapes.

Professionals are encouraged to consider the long-term advantages of building a life in New Zealand, where they can achieve work-life balance and contribute to a thriving society.

For professionals looking to seize this opportunity, applications for the Straight to Residency program can be submitted online. More details on eligible professions and application guidelines are available at Immigration New Zealand