Great news for skilled professionals! In November 2024, New Zealand updated its Long-Term Skill Shortage List (LTSSL), which now includes 66 in-demand professions.
Being on this list is a big deal—it can lead to long-term work visas, a chance to bring your family along, and even a direct path to permanent residency (PR) if you’re eligible.
If you’ve ever wanted to live in a country with stunning landscapes, a modern way of life, and plenty of adorable sheep, this might be your chance to make it happen!
Also Apply: Jobs in Australia that Offer Visa Sponsorship for Foreigners
Which Work Visas Will Be Issued for These 66 Long-Term Occupation Jobs?
- Essential Skills Work Visa: This is for jobs that local New Zealanders (Kiwis) can’t fill. If you bring your family, it often leads to longer visa options with added benefits.
- Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Resident Visa: A points-based visa that can help you become a resident, putting you on the path to permanent residency.
- Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV): Available if you work for an employer approved by the New Zealand government, showing they meet its standards.
- Long-Term Skill Shortage List (LTSSL) Work Visa: For people working in jobs listed on the LTSSL. You may be able to use the Work to Residence pathway to eventually get a resident visa.
Finding Long-Term Jobs in New Zealand in 2025
So, you’ve decided to move to New Zealand, the land of the long white cloud. But where can you find these in-demand jobs? Don’t worry, we’ve got it sorted for you. Here’s where to look:
Top Platforms to Kick-Start Your Search:
Seek.co.nz
- One of New Zealand’s top job websites.
- It has thousands of job listings from different industries.
- You can use filters to search by location, industry, and job type.
Trade Me Jobs
- Best known as a marketplace, it also has a strong job section.
- Great for finding jobs in different industries.
- Offers part-time, full-time, and contract positions.
Careers.govt.nz
- An official government website for career advice and job listings.
- Helps match your skills with job opportunities.
- Offers resources for training, skill improvement, and industry insights.
New Kiwis
- Run by the Auckland Chamber of Commerce, this service is designed for newcomers to New Zealand, especially international job seekers.
- It helps you network and connect directly with employers.
Workhere New Zealand
- Focuses on attracting skilled workers from overseas.
- Lists high-demand jobs for migrants.
- Provides relocation support and links to employers.
More Details: Asia Jobs
Occupations on the Long-Term Skill Shortage List with Salary Ranges & Qualifications
Here’s a simplified table of the 66 occupations on New Zealand’s Long-Term Skill Shortage List (LTSSL), including salary ranges and required qualifications:
| Occupation | Salary Range (NZD/year) | Minimum Qualification |
|---|---|---|
| Civil Engineer | $80,000 – $120,000 | Bachelor’s in Civil Engineering |
| Electrical Engineer | $75,000 – $110,000 | Bachelor’s in Electrical Engineering |
| Mechanical Engineer | $75,000 – $115,000 | Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering |
| Construction Project Manager | $90,000 – $130,000 | Bachelor’s + Experience in Project Management |
| Quantity Surveyor | $70,000 – $100,000 | Bachelor’s in Quantity Surveying |
| ICT Systems Analyst | $80,000 – $120,000 | Bachelor’s in Computer Science/ICT |
| Software Developer | $85,000 – $125,000 | Bachelor’s in Software Engineering/ICT |
| General Practitioner | $100,000 – $200,000 | Medical Degree + Registration |
| Midwife | $80,000 – $110,000 | Bachelor’s in Midwifery |
| Registered Nurse | $60,000 – $100,000 | Bachelor’s in Nursing |
| Secondary School Teacher | $55,000 – $90,000 | Bachelor’s in Education/Teaching Certificate |
| Clinical Psychologist | $85,000 – $130,000 | Master’s in Psychology |
| Veterinarian | $80,000 – $120,000 | Veterinary Degree + Registration |
| Automotive Electrician | $50,000 – $85,000 | Trade Certificate |
| Chef | $50,000 – $85,000 | Culinary Qualification |
| Diesel Motor Mechanic | $55,000 – $90,000 | Trade Certificate |
| Plumber | $55,000 – $95,000 | Trade Certificate + License |
| Carpenter | $55,000 – $85,000 | Trade Qualification |
| Electrician (General) | $60,000 – $95,000 | Electrical Trade Certificate |
| Welder | $55,000 – $85,000 | Trade Qualification |
| Aircraft Maintenance Engineer | $70,000 – $110,000 | Relevant Engineering Qualification |
| Early Childhood Teacher | $50,000 – $80,000 | Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education |
| Baker | $45,000 – $75,000 | Baking Qualification |
| Dairy Cattle Farmer | $50,000 – $80,000 | Agricultural Qualification |
| Arborist | $50,000 – $85,000 | Certificate in Arboriculture |
| Physiotherapist | $70,000 – $110,000 | Bachelor’s in Physiotherapy |
| Audiologist | $75,000 – $115,000 | Master’s in Audiology |
| Architect | $80,000 – $125,000 | Bachelor’s/Master’s in Architecture |
| Biomedical Engineer | $80,000 – $130,000 | Bachelor’s in Biomedical Engineering |
| Geotechnical Engineer | $85,000 – $130,000 | Bachelor’s/Master’s in Engineering |
| Environmental Engineer | $75,000 – $115,000 | Bachelor’s in Environmental Engineering |
| Construction Estimator | $65,000 – $95,000 | Degree in Construction/Quantity Surveying |
| Building Inspector | $60,000 – $100,000 | Construction/Inspection Certification |
| Medical Laboratory Scientist | $70,000 – $110,000 | Degree in Medical Laboratory Science |
| Industrial Engineer | $75,000 – $115,000 | Bachelor’s in Industrial Engineering |
| ICT Security Specialist | $90,000 – $135,000 | Bachelor’s in IT/ICT Security Qualification |
| Chef de Partie | $55,000 – $85,000 | Culinary Qualification/Experience |
| Roof Tiler | $50,000 – $80,000 | Trade Qualification |
| Bricklayer | $50,000 – $80,000 | Trade Qualification |
| Health Services Manager | $85,000 – $135,000 | Degree in Healthcare Management |
| Secondary Math/Science Teacher | $55,000 – $90,000 | Education Degree (Math/Science Focus) |
| Occupational Therapist | $70,000 – $110,000 | Bachelor’s in Occupational Therapy |
| Heavy Truck Driver | $50,000 – $80,000 | Driving License |
| Mechanical Fitter | $55,000 – $90,000 | Trade Qualification |
| Refrigeration/Air Conditioning | $60,000 – $100,000 | Trade Certificate |
| Painter and Decorator | $50,000 – $85,000 | Trade Qualification |
| Drainer | $50,000 – $80,000 | Trade Certification |
| Builder | $60,000 – $100,000 | Construction Trade Qualification |
| Panel Beater | $50,000 – $85,000 | Automotive Qualification |
| Ship’s Engineer | $80,000 – $125,000 | Marine Engineering Qualification |
| Boat Builder | $60,000 – $100,000 | Trade Certificate in Boat Building |
| Telecommunications Engineer | $75,000 – $120,000 | Bachelor’s in Telecommunications |
| Network Administrator | $70,000 – $110,000 | Degree in Networking/IT |
| Agricultural Consultant | $70,000 – $110,000 | Bachelor’s in Agriculture |
| Veterinary Nurse | $50,000 – $85,000 | Veterinary Nursing Qualification |
| Textile Mechanic | $55,000 – $90,000 | Trade Certification |
| Floriculturist | $50,000 – $80,000 | Agricultural Qualification |
| Horticulturist | $50,000 – $85,000 | Degree in Horticulture |
| Wood Machinist | $50,000 – $85,000 | Trade Qualification |
| Food Technologist | $70,000 – $110,000 | Degree in Food Science |
| Data Analyst | $75,000 – $120,000 | Bachelor’s in Data Science/Statistics |
| Laboratory Technician | $55,000 – $85,000 | Degree in Laboratory Science |
Conclusion
New Zealand’s November 2024 Long-Term Skill Shortage List gives skilled workers a great chance to build a rewarding career while enjoying the country’s stunning views and high quality of life.
With easily accessible work visas, good salaries, and opportunities for permanent residency, it’s a fantastic opportunity for anyone wanting to settle in New Zealand. Start your journey today by exploring trusted job websites and agencies!
Also Apply: Specific Purpose Work Visa Jobs SPWV in New Zealand 2025
FAQs
What is the Long-Term Skill Shortage List (LTSSL)?
The LTSSL shows jobs that are in high demand in New Zealand. It allows skilled workers to apply for work visas and possibly permanent residency in these occupations.
How can I find LTSSL jobs in New Zealand?
You can start by checking job sites like Seek.co.nz, Trade Me Jobs, Careers.govt.nz, or using recruitment agencies like Hays and Robert Walters.
