5 Fields Offering Top Courses for PR In New Zealand
Do you find the quality of life in New Zealand excellent enough to apply for permanent residency (PR)? While studying abroad is a common path that many international aspirants consider to study, work, and eventually apply for a PR permit in a foreign country, it is essential to understand which courses might lead to a PR in New Zealand.
While there is no specific course that makes international students eligible for a PR in New Zealand, certain fields of study may offer better pathways to permanent residency. Due to the high demand for skilled workers in certain fields, international graduates can work in New Zealand after their studies on a specific skilled work visa. These fields include Information Technology, Engineering, Business and Management, Agriculture and Agribusiness, Construction and Skilled Trades, Education, Tourism and Hospitality, and Healthcare, especially Nursing.
Even though certain courses may lead to a PR in New Zealand, acquiring a PR in New Zealand is a multi-step process that requires first obtaining a resident visa and living in the country for at least two years. Completing a course in New Zealand does not guarantee permanent residency, but studying in a high-demand field significantly improves your chances. The best pathway is to complete a qualification that leads to a job on the Immigration New Zealand Green List.
The Green List is categorised into two tiers with different residency paths:
Tier 1 (Straight-to-Residence): Occupations in this tier have a direct pathway to a resident visa for those with a job offer from an accredited employer.
Tier 2 (Work-to-Residence): These roles offer a pathway to a resident visa after you have worked in the job for two years.
General Pathway to PR Through Study
Navigating the immigration system of New Zealand can be a complex process. Sticking to a strategic pathway can significantly increase your chances of obtaining permanent residency. Here is a step-by-step guide to the most common route for international students:
Step 1: Choose a Green List-Aligned Course: Enrol in a qualification that leads to a job on the Green List, preferably at NZQF Level 7 (bachelor's degree) or higher. This is the most direct path to residence. Additionally, ensure you meet the English proficiency requirements through tests like the IELTS Academic or TOEFL.
Step 2: Obtain a Post-Study Work Visa (PSWV): After completing your studies, you can apply for this visa, which allows you to stay and work in New Zealand for up to three years. This visa is crucial for gaining the necessary work experience in your field of study.
Step 3: Gain Skilled Employment: Find a skilled job with an accredited employer in your field of study. To maximise your chances, work in a job that is on the Green List, as it is the most efficient path.
Step 4: Apply for a Resident Visa: Once you have relevant skilled employment, you can apply for a resident visa. Depending on whether your job is on the Tier 1 (Straight-to-Residence) or Tier 2 (Work-to-Residence) list, you can apply for a resident visa either immediately or after two years of skilled work.
Having understood the basics, let us now explore which courses may help you find promising post-study work opportunities in New Zealand, leading to qualifying for the Immigration Green List.
5 Eligible Fields of Study for a PR in New Zealand
As discussed before, courses that equip you for jobs on the Green List offer the most direct paths to PR. Some of the popular fields that allow so include:
#1 Healthcare and Social Services
Consistently experiences a high demand for skilled workers in the areas of:
- Medical and Nursing courses that produce registered nurses, midwives, general practitioners, and specialist physicians on the Tier 1 list
- Therapies and Sciences courses that produce physiotherapists, occupational therapists, medical laboratory scientists, and medical physicists
- Psychology and Social Work courses that produce clinical and educational psychologists, along with social workers
#2 Engineering and Construction
With many ongoing infrastructure and upcoming development projects in the country, engineers and skilled tradespeople are consistently sought after for the following profiles:
- Civil engineers, structural engineers, electrical engineers, and mechanical engineers are listed in Tier 1. Technicians in these fields are also in demand.
- Construction project managers and quantity surveyors are on the Green List. Many specialised trades were recently added to Tier 2 in August 2025, including electricians, plumbers, and welders.
#3 Information Technology (ICT) and Electronics
The IT sector has a continuous demand for skilled professionals in New Zealand, making it easy for graduates to find employment in the following sectors:
- Software and Development courses that produce software engineers, analyst programmers, and developer programmers
- Management and Security courses that produce ICT project managers, ICT security specialists, and chief information officers
- Data and Network courses that produce database administrators, network administrators, and telecommunications engineers
#4 Education
Teachers across different levels are in demand throughout New Zealand. Primary and Secondary Teachers training that produces graduates in Early Childhood and Māori-medium primary school teaching. Please note that some teaching roles may offer a direct-to-residence pathway.
#5 Trades, Agriculture, and Science
With diverse opportunities for skilled professionals to contribute to New Zealand's key industries, this sector can be pursued through the following courses:
- Agriculture and Viticulture courses with qualifications in agricultural sciences, agribusiness, and viticulture can lead to roles as dairy farmers or winemakers.
- Environmental Science courses with emphasis on environmental protection, programmes in environmental sciences, ecology, and conservation are growing in relevance.
- Skilled Trades in the sector, in addition to those under construction, positions like automotive electricians and diesel motor mechanics are consistently in demand.
Under every situation, do not forget that there is no guaranteed pathway. While some courses offer better pathways, there is no guarantee of PR based solely on your chosen field of study. Additionally, individual circumstances matter. Factors like age, work experience, and qualifications all play a role in the PR application process.
Consulting with an education or immigration advisor can help you navigate the process with personalised guidance and explore suitable courses eligible for PR in New Zealand. If you seek professional advice, register now and speak with AECC experts. Book your free consultation call today!