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New Zealand
Australia and New Zealand • Oceania
Overview
New Zealand is the most peaceful country in Asia-Pacific (GPI 2025) with stunning natural beauty and English as the primary language. Skilled migrant and investor visas are available but competitive. Auckland is expensive while Wellington and smaller cities offer better value.
Visa Options
Green List Straight to Residence
Fast-track permanent residency for Tier 1 Green List occupations.
~12 weeks processing
Path to citizenship
Green List Work to Residence
Residence pathway after working 24 months in a Tier 2 Green List role.
~16 weeks processing
Path to citizenship
Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa
For skilled workers with a job in New Zealand. Main pathway to residence.
Min. $3,300/mo
~16 weeks processing
Path to citizenship
Highlights
- ✓Most peaceful country in Asia-Pacific (GPI 2025)
- ✓Native English-speaking
- ✓Stunning natural environment
- ✓High quality of life and safety
- ✓Skilled migrant pathways available
Considerations
- !Very far from US (12+ hour flights)
- !Competitive immigration requirements
- !High cost of living in Auckland
- !Limited job market compared to larger countries
Quick Stats
Affordability28/100
Healthcare Quality85/100
Safety88/100
English Spoken100/100
Data updated 1/26/2026