NZ eases residency path for skilled migrants to boost economy
**NZ Eases Residency Path for Skilled Migrants to Boost Economy**
*By Snehil Singh | Sep 23, 2025 | 06:43 pm*
The New Zealand government has announced two new residency pathways for skilled migrants as part of its efforts to stimulate economic growth. Economic Growth Minister Nicola Willis emphasized that these changes aim to address workforce shortages and support business expansion.
“Businesses told us it was too hard for some migrants to gain residence, even when they had crucial skills and significant experience that was not available in the existing workforce. We’re fixing it,” Willis said.
### New Residency Pathways for Skilled Workers, Tradespeople, and Technicians
The new residency options target skilled workers, tradespeople, and technicians who have relevant experience both overseas and within New Zealand. Additionally, applicants must meet specific salary thresholds under the updated criteria.
This initiative comes amid New Zealand’s recent economic challenges, with negative growth reported in three of the last five quarters.
### Government Economic Measures to Support Growth
Alongside the new residency pathways, the government has introduced various policies to bolster the struggling economy, including measures to encourage foreign investment.
Although the country has experienced positive net migration since reopening its borders in 2022, the numbers have declined from earlier highs. This shift is largely attributed to a record number of New Zealanders choosing to leave the country.
### Political Opposition to the Policy
Not everyone supports the new residency measures. New Zealand First, a coalition partner in the government, has voiced opposition, describing the policy as an “unfocused immigration proposal.”
Winston Peters, the party leader and Minister of Foreign Affairs, stated, “New Zealand is being used as a stepping stone into Australia.”
Statistics from Stats NZ, referenced by The Guardian, reveal that in 2024, 35% of New Zealand citizens who migrated to Australia were born outside New Zealand, highlighting concerns about migration patterns.
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The government maintains that easing residency criteria for skilled migrants is a necessary step to fill critical workforce gaps and foster economic resilience in uncertain times.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/world/nz-eases-residency-path-for-skilled-migrants-to-boost-economy/story
