Skilled professionals seeking new opportunities now have an exciting chance to make New Zealand their next destination. The country has updated its Long-Term Skill Shortage List (LTSSL), now featuring 66 high-demand occupations, offering new career and visa pathways for those in sought-after fields.
What is the Long-Term Skill Shortage List (LTSSL)?
The LTSSL identifies essential skills critical to New Zealand’s economy, providing professionals in these areas with benefits such as long-term work visas, the ability to bring family members, and a smoother route to Permanent Residency (PR). For those considering a move to this picturesque country, known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture, now is an ideal time to take action.
Read more: Highest Paying Jobs in Pakistan
Key Occupations in Demand
Engineering Roles
- Civil Engineer
- Salary: $80,000 – $120,000
- Qualification: Bachelor’s in Civil Engineering
- Role: Design, construction, and maintenance of infrastructure like roads and bridges.
- Electrical Engineer
- Salary: $75,000 – $110,000
- Qualification: Bachelor’s in Electrical Engineering
- Role: Design and maintenance of electrical systems across industries.
- Mechanical Engineer
- Salary: $75,000 – $115,000
- Qualification: Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering
- Role: Machinery design, testing, and manufacturing.
Healthcare Positions
- General Practitioner
- Salary: $100,000 – $200,000
- Qualification: Medical Degree and Registration
- Role: Provide primary healthcare, diagnosis, and treatment.
- Registered Nurse
- Salary: $60,000 – $100,000
- Qualification: Bachelor’s in Nursing
- Role: Deliver medical care in hospitals and clinics.
IT & Tech Roles
- Software Developer
- Salary: $85,000 – $125,000
- Qualification: Bachelor’s in Software Engineering
- Role: Develop, test, and maintain software applications.
- Data Analyst
- Salary: $75,000 – $120,000
- Qualification: Bachelor’s in Data Science
- Role: Analyze data to guide business decisions.
Construction & Skilled Trades
- Construction Project Manager
- Salary: $90,000 – $130,000
- Qualification: Bachelor’s Degree and Project Management Experience
- Role: Oversee construction projects ensuring quality and efficiency.
- Electrician
- Salary: $60,000 – $95,000
- Qualification: Electrical Trade Certification
- Role: Install and maintain electrical systems in residential and commercial settings.
Visa Pathways for High-Demand Occupations
- Essential Skills Work Visa: For roles that local talent cannot fill, with provisions to bring family members.
- Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Resident Visa: Points-based visa offering direct residency based on qualifications, age, and experience.
- Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV): Offers job security through employment with government-approved companies.
- LTSSL Work Visa: Tailored for occupations on the shortage list, leading to PR through the Work to Residence pathway.
Finding High-Demand Jobs in New Zealand
Job seekers can explore opportunities through platforms like Seek.co.nz, Trade Me Jobs, and Careers.govt.nz. Recruitment agencies like Hays and Robert Walters also specialize in matching professionals with suitable roles.
Why Now is the Time to Move
With high demand in engineering, healthcare, IT, and skilled trades, New Zealand’s updated LTSSL is a clear signal for professionals to explore the many opportunities available. Generous visa options, strong job support, and a welcoming culture make New Zealand an attractive destination for skilled workers.
A move to New Zealand is not just a dream—it’s a promising opportunity ready to be seized.
