The Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) is Immigration New Zealand's primary residence visa for skilled workers. In 2023, the system was simplified from a 180-point threshold to a straightforward 6-point model.
How the 6-Point System Works
You need a minimum of 6 points to be eligible. Points come from three main categories: recognised qualifications, registration in certain occupations, and skilled work experience in New Zealand. You also need a skilled job or job offer in New Zealand.
Points from Qualifications
- 3 points: Level 7 bachelor's degree or higher (or a NZQF-recognised qualification at Level 7 on the NZ Qualifications Framework)
- 4 points: Level 8 qualification (honours degree, postgraduate certificate/diploma)
- 5 points: Level 9 master's degree
- 6 points: Level 10 doctorate / PhD
Points from Skilled Work Experience in NZ
- 1 point: 1 year of skilled work experience in New Zealand
- 2 points: 2 years
- 3 points: 3 years
Points from Registration
Certain occupations require registration under New Zealand law (e.g., nurses, teachers, engineers, architects). Points are awarded based on the duration of training required:
- 3 points: Registration requiring at least 3 years of training
- 4 points: Registration requiring at least 4 years of training
- 5 points: Registration requiring at least 5 years of training
- 6 points: Registration requiring at least 6 years of training
Application Process
- Check eligibility: Are you 55 or under? Do you have a skilled job or job offer? Can you meet the 6-point minimum?
- Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI): An online application via the Immigration NZ portal. There is a fee (around NZD $590 as of 2025).
- Wait for an Invitation to Apply (ITA): EOIs are drawn periodically. If selected, you receive an ITA.
- Submit your residence application: You have 4 months to submit a full application with supporting documents.
- Decision: Immigration NZ assesses your application. Processing times vary — typically 6–12 months.
Key Requirements
- Age: 55 or under at time of application
- Health: Must be of an acceptable standard of health (medical certificate required)
- Character: Police certificates required for any country you've lived in for 12+ months in the last 10 years
- English language: IELTS 6.5 or equivalent (unless from an English-speaking country)
- Skilled employment: A job or job offer in New Zealand paying at least the median wage (NZD $31.61/hour as of 2025)
What You Get with a Resident Visa
- Live, work, and study in New Zealand indefinitely
- Include your partner and dependent children in your application
- Access to publicly funded healthcare and education
- Eligibility to apply for Permanent Resident Visa after 2 years
- Pathway to citizenship after 5 years of residence