GI
🇳🇿

New Zealand Immigration Guide

Skilled Migrant Category & Job Offers

New Zealand operates a simplified skilled migration system that prioritizes applicants with job offers in skilled occupations. The 6-point system makes it straightforward to assess your eligibility.

Skilled Migrant Category (SMC)

The SMC uses a simplified 6-point system introduced in 2023. You need at least 6 points to be eligible, earned through a combination of skilled employment and qualifications. Unlike other countries, age is not directly scored but you must be under 55.

6-Point System Breakdown

You can earn points from: • Skilled employment with registration requiring 6+ years training: 6 points • Skilled employment with registration requiring 5+ years training: 5 points • Bachelor's degree (Level 7+) or higher: 4-6 points • Income at 1.5x median wage or higher: 3-6 points Plus work experience points: • 3+ years in NZ: 3 points • 2 years in NZ: 2 points • 1 year in NZ: 1 point

Importance of Job Offers

Having a skilled job offer in New Zealand is almost essential for SMC applications. The job must meet certain requirements: • Must be on the Green List or meet skill level requirements • Must meet median wage threshold (currently NZ$31.61/hour) • For higher-level positions, higher wage thresholds apply • Employer must demonstrate genuine need

Green List Occupations

The Green List includes occupations with sustained shortages in New Zealand. Green List occupations receive priority processing and may qualify for fast-track residence. Key sectors include: • Healthcare (nurses, doctors, aged care) • Engineering (civil, mechanical, electrical) • ICT (software developers, analysts) • Construction (project managers, quantity surveyors) • Education (early childhood, secondary teachers)

Salary Requirements

Income thresholds are critical: • Median wage: NZ$31.61/hour (2026) • 1.5x median wage: NZ$47.41/hour • 2x median wage: NZ$63.22/hour Higher wages can contribute to your points score and eligibility.

Path to Residence

The typical pathway involves: 1. Secure a skilled job offer in New Zealand 2. Apply for a work visa (if not already in NZ) 3. Accumulate required work experience 4. Submit Expression of Interest for SMC 5. Receive invitation to apply 6. Submit full residence application 7. Receive residence visa (typically 6-12 months processing)

Application Steps

  1. 1Confirm occupation is on Green List or meets skill requirements
  2. 2Secure job offer meeting wage thresholds
  3. 3Apply for work visa if needed
  4. 4Gain required NZ work experience
  5. 5Submit Expression of Interest (EOI)
  6. 6Receive invitation to apply
  7. 7Submit residence application
  8. 8Provide health and character certificates
  9. 9Await residence decision

Calculate Your New Zealand Points

Check your current New Zealand immigration points and learn about eligibility requirements with our free calculator.

Calculate Now →