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⭐ Green List Tier 1 — Straight to Residence

Structural Engineer
Immigration to New Zealand

Design load-bearing structures, seismic assessments, and structural systems for buildings and infrastructure.

ANZSCO Code
233213
ANZSCO Skill Level
Level 1
Sector
Engineering
NZ Salary Range
NZ$85,000 – NZ$150,000
Visa Pathway
Straight to Residence

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About This Occupation in New Zealand

⭐ Green List Tier 1 — Straight to Residence

This occupation qualifies for direct New Zealand residence. With a job offer from an accredited employer and the right qualifications, you can apply for residence immediately — no need to wait two years.

Structural Engineers are among NZ's most in-demand engineers. New Zealand's seismic activity drives constant demand for seismic assessment and strengthening, while the country's building boom creates sustained demand in commercial and residential construction. Green List Tier 1 status allows direct residence application with a job offer.

NZ Salary Range for Structural Engineer

NZ$85,000 – NZ$150,000
Senior structural engineers and CPEng holders typically earn NZ$120k–NZ$165k.

Salaries are based on NZ market data. Regional and rural positions may offer allowances, relocation support, and retention bonuses in addition to base salary.

Visa Pathways for Structural Engineer

Green List Straight to Residence

⏱ 4–8 months 💰 NZ$3,370
  • Accredited employer job offer
  • Pay at median wage or above
ANZSCO Skill Level 1 Skill Level 1 — Bachelor's degree or higher
What this means for AEWV applications:
Visa duration: Up to 5 years (Skill Level 1 is eligible for the 5-year AEWV maximum)
English evidence: Not required for Skill Level 1–3 occupations
Partner work visa: Available if earning ≥ NZ$28.00/hr (from March 2026)
Dependent children: Eligible if family income ≥ NZ$55,844/year

Source: Immigration NZ Operational Manual (WA3.16) — updated 9 March 2026

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor of Engineering (Civil/Structural)
  • Minimum 3 years relevant experience

Registration / Licensing: Engineering New Zealand membership. CPEng or IntPE(NZ) for senior roles.

How to Immigrate to New Zealand as a Structural Engineer

1
Check your degree is from a Washington Accord institution
2
Secure job offer with structural engineering consultancy or construction firm
3
Apply for Green List Straight to Residence visa

Is Structural Engineer on the NZ Green List? — FAQs

Is Structural Engineer on the NZ Green List?

Yes. Structural Engineer (ANZSCO 233213) is Green List Tier 1 — Straight to Residence.

Is seismic engineering experience valued in NZ?

Highly valued. Post-Christchurch and post-Hawke's Bay earthquake, NZ has significant ongoing seismic assessment and retrofit work.

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