Tier 1 occupations can apply for residence directly, without working in New Zealand first. It needs a job or job offer in that occupation from an accredited employer, plus the qualification or registration Appendix 13 sets for it. Note that no trades occupation is currently in Tier 1 — every trade sits in Tier 2.
Route overview
Green List Tier 1: residence applied for from offshore
Typical timeline / duration: 3-9 months
Important notes
The occupation must be on the Green List Tier 1 (Straight to Residence) list.
Hold a full-time job or job offer in that occupation from an accredited employer.
Meet the qualification, registration or wage requirement Appendix 13 sets for that occupation.
Meet Immigration New Zealand's health and character requirements.
Tier 1 requires no prior period of work in New Zealand. That is the whole difference between it and Tier 2.
Trades occupations are all in Tier 2: electrician, plumber, gasfitter, drainlayer and the automotive trades all require 24 months of New Zealand work first.
Preparation checklist
Confirm your occupation is on the current Tier 1 list in Appendix 13, and read its specific requirement.
Confirm the employer is accredited and the role matches the listed occupation.
Gather qualification, registration or wage evidence as that occupation requires.
Prepare passport, identity documents, and health and character evidence.