Skill shortage review process

The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment has reviewed the approach to skills shortage lists.

About the skill shortages lists

The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) has previously used 3 lists that record the skill shortages in New Zealand, based partly on suggestions from employers and trade unions. They are the:

  • Long Term Skill Shortage List
  • Regional Skill Shortage List
  • Construction and Infrastructure Skill Shortage List.

You can search the lists online.

Skill shortage list check | Online tool

2021 review

As part of the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) policy, MBIE reviewed the approach to skills shortage lists. It has developed the Green List of occupations, which will provide a eligible migrants with a straight to residence and a work to residence visa pathway.

Green List occupations