Last week, I had the opportunity to share insights with ABC Australia about a trend we are seeing firsthand at Queen City Law: a growing number of Indonesians are turning their attention to New Zealand as a pathway to residency.

You can read the full ABC Indonesia article here.

This shift is not accidental. It reflects broader changes in global migration trends, policy settings, and individual priorities. Through our work with clients across Indonesia and Australia, we are seeing clear patterns emerge.

A Shift Away from Traditional Migration Destinations

For many years, Australia has been the top destination for Indonesians seeking permanent residence. However, in recent years, the pathway has become increasingly competitive and complex.

From what our clients tell us, securing permanent residency in Australia has become significantly more difficult. The requirements are stricter, competition for points-based visas is intense, and processing timelines can be unpredictable.

As I shared in the ABC interview, many Indonesians are now reconsidering their options:

“They initially aim for Australia, but when the pathway becomes too difficult, they start looking at New Zealand.”

We are also seeing a noticeable group of clients who are already in Australia—on temporary visas—but are unable to transition to permanent residency there. For them, New Zealand represents a practical alternative.

Why New Zealand Is Gaining Attention

New Zealand’s immigration system is often perceived as more straightforward and transparent. While every visa application still requires careful preparation and eligibility, the structure of the system can be easier to navigate compared to other countries.

In particular, recent policy settings have made New Zealand more attractive to skilled migrants. The government has introduced targeted pathways designed to address labour shortages and support economic growth.

At Queen City Law, we regularly guide clients through two key pathways:

1. Straight to Residence Visa

This pathway allows eligible applicants in highly sought-after professions to apply directly for residency without long waiting periods.

2. Work to Residence Visa

Applicants in certain roles can work in New Zealand for a period (typically 24 months) before becoming eligible to apply for residency.

These pathways are closely tied to New Zealand’s Green List, which identifies occupations in demand across sectors such as healthcare, engineering, construction, ICT, and agriculture. [abc.net.au]

The Importance of Strategic Planning

While New Zealand may offer opportunities, achieving residency is not automatic. One of the most important lessons we share with clients is this:

Migration success depends on alignment.

Applicants must ensure that:

• Their skills match roles on the Green List

• Their qualifications meet New Zealand standards

• Their long-term plans are realistic and sustainable

We always emphasise that migration decisions should not be based solely on social media or anecdotal stories. Each individual’s circumstances are unique, and careful planning is essential.

Family Considerations Matter

Another reason New Zealand is attractive is its family-friendly visa framework.

For example, many study pathways allow:

• Partners to work full-time

• Children to access public schooling

This flexibility can make a significant difference for families planning a long-term move.

We have seen clients successfully use this approach as a stepping stone toward residency, especially when direct migration pathways are not immediately available.

A Balanced Perspective

While interest in New Zealand is growing, it is important to acknowledge the full picture.

As reported in the same ABC article, New Zealand has also experienced an outflow of its own citizens, many of whom move to Australia in search of higher salaries and broader job opportunities. [abc.net.au]

This highlights an important reality:

Migration is not just about getting residency—it’s about long-term lifestyle, career opportunities, and personal priorities.

For some, New Zealand is the final destination.

For others, it is part of a broader migration journey.

Our Perspective at Queen City Law

At QCL, we see our role as more than processing visa applications.

We help clients:

• Understand their options clearly

• Choose pathways aligned with their goals

• Avoid costly mistakes

• Plan for long-term success

The increase in interest from Indonesian clients reflects both the challenges in other countries and the opportunities in New Zealand. But every case requires thoughtful, personalised advice.

Final Thoughts

New Zealand is becoming an increasingly attractive option for Indonesians seeking residency—not because it is “easy,” but because it offers clearer, more achievable pathways for the right candidates.

If there is one key takeaway from this trend, it is this:

Migration is no longer about choosing the most popular destination—it is about choosing the right strategy.