Good news for trades, and it's just the beginning

More trades are joining the Green List, opening new pathways to residence for skilled workers.

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The government has agreed to add ten trade occupations to the Green List from 18 August 2025, opening opportunities for migrant workers in these trades to apply for residence.

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The trade occupations and wage rates required to meet the residence threshold are as follows:

• Metal Fabricator - $43.63 an hour (or $90,750 a year for a 40-hour work week)
• Metal Machinist (First Class) - $43.63 an hour (or $90,750 a year for a 40-hour work week)
• Fitter (General) - $43.63 an hour (or $90,750 a year for a 40-hour work week)
• Fitter and Turner - $43.63 an hour (or $90,750 a year for a 40-hour work week)
• Fitter Welder - $43.63 an hour (or $90,750 a year for a 40-hour work week)
• Pressure Welder - $43.63 an hour (or $90,750 a year for a 40-hour work week)
• Welder - $43.63 an hour (or $90,750 a year for a 40-hour work week)
• Panel Beater - $38.59 an hour (or $80,267 a year for a 40-hour work week)
• Vehicle Painter - $38.59 an hour (or $80,267 a year for a 40-hour work week)
• Paving Plant Operator - $38.59 an hour (or $80,267 a year for a 40-hour work week)

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These wage rates were set based on feedback from trade industry groups as a measure of skill. If you or your staff are worried whether migrant workers can meet these wage thresholds, our advice is ‘don’t panic!’ A review of the Skilled Migrant residence category (points system) is underway, and we expect announcements to be made in coming months.

There are age, health, character, and English language requirements that apply to these trade workers and their families to qualify for residence. In addition, a trade worker must have worked in the job in New Zealand for at least two years when they apply for residence and have been paid throughout those two years at the pay rate above or at the median wage ($31.61 an hour) if there is no wage rate is next to the occupation.

The median wage for visa application assessments will increase on 18 August 2025 to $33.56 an hour.

If you or your team want to know more about these changes or need immigration advice, talk to our specialist team today.

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