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Special Needs Teacher (241511) in New Zealand: residence pathways and pay needed
Special Needs Teacher (241511) is on the Green List Tier 2. An SMC application needs a job paying at least $35.00 an hour ($38.50 for the Skilled Work Experience pathway). ANZSCO skill level 1–3.
Green List Tier 2
| Route | Open? | What it takes |
|---|---|---|
| Green List: Work to Residence | Yes | Tier 2. Residence after 24 months of work in New Zealand in this job within the last 30 months, meeting the requirement below. |
| SMC Points-based | Yes | Job must pay at least $35.00 an hour. You need 6 points: e.g. an overseas bachelor’s (4) + 18 months of skilled work in NZ (2). |
| SMC Skilled Work Experience | Yes | Pay of at least $38.50 (1.1×), 5 years of relevant experience including 2 in New Zealand. |
| SMC Trades and Technician | No | Not on the Trades and Technician list. |
Green List Tier 2 requirement
Health and Social Services
NZ registration with the Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand and with either a provisional or full practising certificate issued by the Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand.
Teacher of English to Speakers of Other Languages must be working in a primary, intermediate, or secondary school
Qualifications accepted for registration:
One of the following:
Bachelor of EducationBachelor of Education (Early Childhood)Bachelor of Education (Technology)Bachelor of TeachingBachelor of Teaching (Early Childhood Education)
In Australia: Special Needs Teacher · last 189 cut-off 80 points (15 October 2026).
Check your own case → Wage threshold calculator
Every pathway also needs an accredited employer, full-time work, age 55 or under, English, health and character. Appendix 13 · SR3.10