New Zealand · Work Visas

Care workforce work-to-residence — current rules

Dedicated pathway allowing care workers (aged care, disability support) paid at or above the Level 4 care workforce rate to transition to residence after 24 months.

Who it suits

Who this pathway suits

Caregivers and support workers employed by accredited health and social care providers.

Eligibility

Eligibility at a glance

  • Employed in an eligible care workforce role
  • Paid at or above the Care Workforce sector wage threshold
  • Completed 24 months full-time employment in New Zealand
Process

How the process works

  1. Work 24 months on AEWV
  2. Lodge Care Workforce Residence application
  3. Obtain New Zealand Resident Visa
Documents

Documents you will typically need

  • Employment contract showing Level 4 wage compliance, 24 months IRD tax summary, payslips
Good to know

What to keep in mind

One of the most accessible permanent residence pathways for non-degree healthcare workers.

Official source: Immigration New Zealand — Care Workforce. Government authorities make all final decisions; no outcome is guaranteed.

Ecosystem Architecture

Parallel Options & Supporting Tools for Care workforce work-to-residence — current rules

Explore supporting intelligence briefings, interactive points assessment tools, institutional services, and parallel global migration pathways.

article

Supporting Briefings & Advisory Articles

4 min read

Land a New Zealand Tech Job Before Your Visa: A Strategy for UAE IT Professionals

For many IT professionals based in the UAE, the traditional immigration process can feel backward and stressful: apply for an expensive visa, wait months for approval, and only then begin the daunting task of hunting for...

Read briefing arrow_forward
4 min read

New Zealand Residency Visa: Eligibility & PR Pathways for UAE Professionals

New Zealand is globally renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, exceptional quality of life, and safe, family-friendly communities. For skilled professionals and expatriates residing in the UAE, New Zealand represents ...

Read briefing arrow_forward
4 min read

New Zealand Work Permits 2026: Types & Requirements for UAE Expats

New Zealand’s booming economy and severe skill shortages across major industries have created unprecedented opportunities for global talent. For skilled professionals, recent graduates, and tradespeople currently residin...

Read briefing arrow_forward

Is Care workforce work-to-residence — current rules the right route for you?

Get a free, no-obligation assessment of your profile. A senior adviser will review your options and explain the realistic pathways that fit.