Latest Engineering Trends and Statistics

Engineering is at the heart of New Zealand’s growth and infrastructure and with ongoing skills shortages, attracting and retaining qualified engineers is essential for New Zealand’s future.

The government recognises the importance of engineers, with 23 engineering roles featuring on the current skills shortage Green List. These roles include:

• Chemical, Civil, Structural, Electrical, Mechanical, and Electronics Engineers
• Geotechnical, Environmental, and Industrial Engineers
• Aeronautical, Naval Architect/Marine Designer, and Telecommunications Engineers
• Engineering Technicians and Aircraft Maintenance Engineers

Engineers from overseas need a resident or work visa to be able to work in New Zealand. Applicants who are offered any of the above roles, and who meet the required credentials, can have their work and/or resident visas expedited due to this Green List status.

Work Visa Trends: 2025

In the 2025 calendar year, 1,578 work visas were issued to applicants in engineering roles (with 45 work visa applications declined). This is compared to 1,707 work visas in the previous year (with 60 declined). Most of these visas were issued under the following categories:

• Specific Purpose or Event (825)
• Accredited Employer (609)
• Variation of Conditions (129)

The main engineering roles for which these visas were issued were:

• Engineering Professionals nec (312)
• Mechanical Engineering Technician (267)
• Mechanical Engineer (261)
• Electrical Engineer (105)
• Production or Plant Engineer (78)

The top source countries for engineering work visas were:

• India (162)
• Philippines (159)
• China (141)
• United States of America (126)
• Germany (87)

Although they did not reach the list of top five source countries, South Korea (39) and Japan (27) produced a high number of applicants granted work visas on the basis of Engineering Professionals nec roles.

In addition, there will also be a significant number of engineers who completed tertiary studies in New Zealand, and who are holding open post-study work visas, and are working in engineering roles.

Resident Visa Trends: 2025

In the 2025 calendar year, 15 resident visas were issued to engineers (with 3 applications declined). In 2024, successful applications numbered 138 (also with 3 applications declined). Most visas were granted under the Skilled Migrant Category, with a small number granted to Talent – Accredited Employer applicants.

The main roles represented were:

• Telecommunications Network Engineer
• Production or Plant Engineer
• Mechanical Engineer
• Geotechnical Engineer
• Civil Engineer
• Engineering Professionals nec
• Electronics Engineer
• Electrical Engineer
• Chemical Engineer

Residence applicants came from a wide range of countries including:

• Pakistan
• Lebanon
• Iran
• India
• Fiji

It is expected that many of the engineers now holding work visas, and working in New Zealand, will over time also progress to New Zealand residence.

What Does This Mean for You?

If you are an engineer considering working in, or relocating permanently to, New Zealand, there are various work and resident visa pathways available. It is important to ensure your qualifications and registration meet New Zealand standards, and to stay informed about changing immigration policies.

If you have questions about your visa eligibility or want tailored immigration advice, reach out to a Pathways® licensed immigration adviser. We are here to help you navigate the immigration process and make your move as smooth as possible.