New Zealand offers easier residency rules as record number of citizens leave

New Zealand is officially making it easier for skilled migrant workers to gain residency and live in the country.

The country made a significant move in its latest attempt to fortify the workforce and economy.

The minister for economic growth, Nicola Willis officially announced that two new residency pathways could bridge gaps in the workforce for skilled and experienced migrants.

The recent development comes at a time when record numbers of New Zealanders are leaving the country.

However, the residency pathway will be officially introduced from mid-2026.

Initially, one pathway is for migrants in skilled roles who have relevant working experience. The second is for migrants in trades and technical roles who have the necessary work experience.

Immigration minister Erica Stanford was of the view that the professional background pathway was designed to help employers retain experienced workers who are already contributing to New Zealand’s economy.

It has been observed that New Zealand citizens are leaving the country in record numbers.

According to Stats NZ, between July 2024 -2025, 73,400 New Zealanders left while only 25,800 returned home to live.

Business New Zealand welcomed the latest changes and said that new pathways will enable employers to retain skilled workers in the country.

The party’s leader and minister of foreign affairs, Winston Peters, said in an official statement that “New Zealand is being used as a steppingstone into Australia.”

He further explained that we take them and train them to look after their families and then they immigrate.”

Additionally, he stated that we need a smart immigration system that specifically focuses on the needs of New Zealand’s employers-not policies that will lead to more immigration with no plan for our next generation.