New Zealand Skilled Migrant Category
Points-based residence using qualifications, registration or income, plus skilled NZ work.
The Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Resident Visa is New Zealand's main points-based residence pathway. Applicants need 6 points from professional registration, qualifications or income, and can earn up to 3 more points for skilled work in New Zealand. From 24 August 2026, two new pathways were added: a Trades and Technician pathway and a Skilled Work Experience pathway.
Last updated September 2026 · Immiways Migration Advisory Services, Himayat Nagar, Hyderabad
Key facts
- Visa type
- Resident visa
- Points needed
- 6
- Points from
- Registration, qualification or income + NZ skilled work
- New from Aug 2026
- Trades & Technician and Skilled Work Experience pathways
- Job offer
- Skilled job or offer in New Zealand required
New Zealand Skilled Migrant Category: overview
The SMC uses a simple six-point system. You claim points from one skill category — occupational registration, a qualification, or income — and add points for skilled work experience in New Zealand.
The August 2026 changes open residence to more tradespeople and experienced workers, and adjust how qualifications and wage thresholds are assessed. We check which pathway gives you the best chance.
Benefits
- Residence for you and your family
- Clear points system
- New pathways for trades and experienced workers
- Path to permanent residence and citizenship
Eligibility requirements
- Skilled employment or job offer in New Zealand
- 6 points from registration, qualification or income and NZ experience
- Wage at or above the required threshold
- English language requirement
- Under 56 years of age
- Health and character requirements
Documents checklist
A typical list — we give you a personalised checklist for your case.
- Passport
- Qualification documents (and NZQA assessment if required)
- Occupational registration (if claiming)
- Employment agreement and payslips
- English test results
- Police certificates
- Medical certificates
Step-by-step process
- 01
Points check
We identify the pathway and points you can claim.
- 02
Qualification assessment
Arrange NZQA or registration if needed.
- 03
Submit EOI
Lodge your Expression of Interest.
- 04
Invitation
Receive an invitation to apply.
- 05
Residence application
We prepare and submit the full application.
How Immiways Migration helps
- Free eligibility assessment
- Personalised document checklist
- Forms and application prepared for you
- Regular updates until a decision
New Zealand Skilled Migrant Category: FAQs
How many points do I need for the Skilled Migrant Category?
You need 6 points in total from skills and New Zealand work experience.
What changed in August 2026?
New Trades and Technician and Skilled Work Experience pathways were introduced, with updated qualification and wage rules.
Can I apply for SMC from India?
You generally need skilled work or a job offer in New Zealand, so most applicants move on a work visa first.