New Zealand’s Skilled Migrant Category
New Zealand has changed its Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Resident Visa requirements, and from 9 October 2023 Immigration New Zealand has been applying new criteria for selecting prospective immigrants to New Zealand. The changes include the following:
- New points system (maximum 6 points);
- Mandatory requirement to either have a skilled job in New Zealand, or to have a job offer for a skilled position in New Zealand;
- Number of applications that can be accepted under the SMC has become unlimited;
- Shorter processing time;
- SMC Interim Visa option.
However, some of the basic requirements have remained unchanged under the Skilled Migrant Category, including the following:
- Health and character requirements;
- English language requirements;
- Age requirements (i.e. to be 55 years of age or younger)
Points under Skilled Migrant Category are now given for the following factors:
- Occupational registration in New Zealand;
- Qualifications, at a Bachelor’s degree level, or higher;
- Salary level of skilled job in New Zealand, or a salary level of a job offer for a skilled job in New Zealand.
Application process under Skilled Migrant Category will continue to have two main stages:
- Expression of Interest (EOI)
- Invitation to Apply for Residence
Contact our New Zealand Licensed Immigration Adviser for further information and assistance >
See Immigration New Zealand’s video about Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa >
