If you are already living in Aotearoa and want to stay for good, moving from a temporary visa to Permanent Residency in New Zealand is a life-changing step. This guide explains the common routes, what you must prepare, the timing, and simple practical tips. I’ll write in plain English so it’s easy to follow — read through and you should feel confident about the process.

Why people move from temporary visas to permanent residency

Many visitors come on a student or work visa and then fall in love with New Zealand — the work-life balance, the safety, or the chance to raise a family here. Gaining Permanent Residency in New Zealand NZeTA Application Form, work and study here indefinitely, and it makes travel in and out of the country easier. People choose permanent residency because it brings security and a clear future for their family.

Main pathways to resident visas (and then to permanent residency)

There are a few well-used ways to move from a temporary visa toward Permanent Residency in New Zealand:

• Work to Residence: If you have a job with an accredited employer or a role on the Green List, this pathway can lead to residence and later permanent residency. Practical example: some people work for two years with an accredited employer before they qualify.

• Skilled migrant / Skilled residence routes: If your skills are in demand (and you meet the points, qualification and English requirements), you can apply for residence and later seek permanent residency.

• Green List roles: The Green List names jobs New Zealand needs. Some Green List Tier 1 jobs let you apply straight to residence; Tier 2 roles usually lead to a Work to Residence visa first.

• Family-based routes: If your partner or close relative is a New Zealand citizen or resident, you may be able to apply based on family ties.

Most people start on a temporary visa (work, study or visitor), then move to a resident visa through one of the routes above, and after meeting the rules for time and commitment, apply for Permanent Residency in New Zealand.

The important “two years” rule

A key rule is that to apply for a Permanent Resident Visa, you usually must have had a resident visa for at least two years in a row immediately before you apply. This two-year period is counted right before your permanent resident application — not from the day your resident visa was first issued. Make sure to keep clear dates and evidence of your time in New Zealand. 

Documents you should prepare early

Start collecting these straight away — they save time later:

• Passport pages and ID scans.

• Job offer letters, employment contracts, payslips and bank statements.

• Tax and IRD records, and any KiwiSaver contributions.

• Qualifications, certificates, and any professional registration (with certified English translations if needed).

• Police certificates from countries you’ve lived in for long periods.

• Medical check results when Immigration NZ asks for them.

Keep both digital copies and printed copies in a folder. When officials ask for extra proof, you’ll be ready.

Travel, NZeTA Application Form and costs while you wait

If you need to travel during the process, remember travel entry rules are separate from residency rules. Many short-stay visitors must request an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) before travel. The NZeTA request can be made through the official app or website; the app often charges a lower fee. Allow at least 72 hours for the NZeTA request to be processed. 

Also plan for fees: the NZeTA cost is smaller than resident visa fees, but residency steps include higher application fees, medical costs and police-check charges. Many applicants also pay an International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) with certain travel or visa requests — check the official fee pages when you apply. 

What happens after you apply

After you submit a resident or permanent resident application, Immigration New Zealand will check your papers, health and character. Processing time depends on the visa type and how complete your application is. If approved, a Permanent Resident Visa lets you live in New Zealand indefinitely — but always check any travel conditions attached to the visa before you leave the country. 

Common questions (simple answers)

• Can my partner and children come with me? 
• Usually yes, if they meet the criteria and are included in your application.

• Do I lose my temporary visa while applying? 
• Normally you keep your current visa until a decision — but do not let your current visa expire without checking official guidance.

• How long does it take? 
• It varies widely. Some resident applications are quick; others need extra checks and take more time.

Final practical tips

1. Be honest and clear: Immigration checks your history and documents carefully — honest files help your case.

2. Keep a timeline: Note the dates your visas started and ended, and how long you worked in New Zealand.

3. Use official sources: Always check Immigration New Zealand’s pages for the latest rules and fees.

4. Ask for help if stuck: If your case is complex, a licensed immigration adviser can help prepare your application.

Closing thought

Moving from a temporary visa to Permanent Residency in New Zealand is a careful, step-by-step journey. Find the right pathway for your job or family situation, gather your documents, follow the time rules, and use official resources. With planning and patience, you can make New Zealand your long-term home.