1. Choose the Right Visa Category 
There are various pathways to obtain New Zealand Permanent Residency, but most applicants go through one of the following categories:

• Skilled Migrant Category (SMC):
This is the most common route for skilled workers. It is points-based and requires applicants to meet specific qualifications and work experience criteria.

• Work to Residence (WTR):
For those who are already in New Zealand on a work visa and wish to apply for residency.

• Residence from Work (RFW):
For individuals who have been working in New Zealand for a certain period under a work visa.

• Entrepreneur and Investor Categories:
For individuals who plan to invest in or establish a business in New Zealand.

2. Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) – Step-by-Step Process 
For the Skilled Migrant Category, here’s the typical process:

2.1. Expression of Interest (EOI)
• If your EOI is selected from the pool and you meet the required points threshold, you will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for residence.
• The ITA means you’re now invited to submit a full application for residency.

2.2. Invitation to Apply (ITA)
• After receiving an ITA, you need to submit a full application for residence. This application includes documents such as:
o Proof of work experience.
o Educational qualifications.
o Proof of English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS score).
o Police clearance certificates and medical certificates.

2.3. Invitation to Apply (ITA)
• After receiving an ITA, you need to submit a full application for residence. This application includes documents such as:
o Proof of work experience.
o Educational qualifications.
o Proof of English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS score).
o Police clearance certificates and medical certificates.

2.4. Assessment
• Immigration New Zealand (INZ) will assess your application and documents. If everything is in order, they will decide whether to approve your residency application.
• If you meet all criteria and pass the health and character checks, your application will be approved.

3. Work to Residence or Residence from Work 
If you are already in New Zealand on a temporary work visa, you may apply for Work to Residence or Residence from Work pathways:

• Work to Residence: Allows you to apply for residency after working in New Zealand for two years in a skilled occupation.
• Residence from Work: If you have been working in New Zealand for a while on a temporary work visa and meet the necessary criteria, you can apply for permanent residency under this category.

4. Points System 
The Skilled Migrant Category uses a points-based system. Points are awarded for:

• Age:
Younger applicants receive more points (20–30 years old gets the most points).

• Skilled Employment:
Points for a job offer in an occupation that is in demand in New Zealand.

• Work Experience:
Points for work experience in your field.

• Qualifications:
Points for recognized qualifications.

• Partner’s qualifications and work experience:
If your partner also meets certain requirements, you can earn additional points.

5. Health and Character Checks 
All applicants for permanent residency must undergo medical examinations and provide police certificates to prove they meet the required health and character standards.

6. Temporary to Permanent 
Once you receive your PR, you will first be granted a Resident Visa, which gives you the right to live and work in New Zealand permanently. If you meet certain conditions, after a period of time (usually 2 years), you can apply for a Permanent Resident Visa.

7. Residence Visa Duration 
Once you have a Resident Visa, it is valid indefinitely, as long as you live in New Zealand and meet residency conditions. To maintain your permanent residency status, you may need to meet the travel conditions, which require you to spend a certain amount of time in New Zealand.

8. New Zealand Permanent Residency Benefits 
• Permanent right to live, work, and study in New Zealand.
• Access to state-funded health services.
• Ability to sponsor family members for residence.
• Access to social security benefits (depending on certain conditions).
• Path to New Zealand citizenship after living in New Zealand for a set number of years (usually five).

Important Notes 
• New Zealand’s immigration policies and points thresholds can change over time, so it’s important to stay updated on the current rules.
• If you're not eligible for PR under the Skilled Migrant Category, there may be other options, such as a work visa, investor visa, or family sponsorship.