Migration Overseas
Since 1998
New Zealand's points-based skilled migration program for professionals. Score 6+ points and secure your PR with full work and living rights in Aotearoa.
The SMC now operates on a simplified 6-point system.
You need a total of 6 points to qualify. The main way to earn points is through skilled employment with an Accredited Employer in New Zealand, combined with either high pay or a Green List occupation.
You need 6 points minimum to qualify. Here's how points are calculated.
Meet these criteria to be eligible for the Skilled Migrant Category visa.
Must be 55 years or younger at the time of application. Maximum points awarded to applicants aged 20-39.
Must meet health requirements (medical exam) and have good character (police clearance from all countries lived 5+ years).
IELTS 6.5+ overall (no band below 6.0), or PTE 58+, TOEFL iBT 79+. Native English speakers exempt.
Must have skilled employment in New Zealand, or a job offer from an accredited employer. Occupation must be on ANZSCO skill level 1-3.
Must score at least 6 points on the new SMC points system from skilled employment, qualifications, work experience, or partner employment.
The Skilled Migrant Category offers a direct pathway to permanent residence and citizenship.
Live and work in NZ indefinitely. No need to renew visa.
Partner and children can be included in your application.
Eligible for NZ citizenship after 5 years of residence.
Access to free schooling and domestic university fees.
Public healthcare system access as a resident.
NZ citizens can live and work in Australia freely.
These sectors have the highest demand for skilled migrants in New Zealand.
Software Engineers, Developers, Data Scientists
Civil Engineers, Project Managers, Surveyors
Doctors, Nurses, Allied Health Professionals
Farm Managers, Agronomists, Veterinarians
Teachers (ECE, Primary, Secondary)
Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical Engineers
Accountants, Financial Analysts, Auditors
Chefs, Hotel Managers (skilled roles)
Green List occupations have fast-track residence pathways. Tier 1 roles can apply for residence immediately, while Tier 2 roles qualify after 2 years of work experience in NZ.
Apply for residence immediately with job offer
Apply for residence after 2 years working in NZ
Doctors, Nurses, Midwives, Specialists
Civil, Mechanical, Electrical Engineers
Step-by-step guide to applying for the Skilled Migrant Category visa.
Calculate your points based on age, qualifications, work experience, and employment. Ensure you meet the 6-point threshold.
1-2 WeeksGet a skilled job offer from an accredited NZ employer. Alternatively, apply for Accredited Employer Work Visa first to gain NZ experience.
VariableTake IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL if you're not from an English-speaking country. Score requirement: IELTS 6.5+ or equivalent.
2-4 WeeksSubmit EOI online through Immigration NZ. Include all claimed points with supporting documents. Pay EOI fee (NZD $680).
Selection PoolIf selected from the pool, you'll receive an ITA. You have 4 months to submit full residence application with all documents.
Pool SelectionComplete application with medical exams, police certificates, and all supporting documents. Pay application fee (NZD $4,290+).
6-12 Months ProcessingReceive resident visa approval. Travel to NZ within specified timeframe to activate your residence. Welcome to New Zealand!
PR Granted!Understanding costs and processing times.
| Fee Component | Details | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| EOI Fee | Expression of Interest | NZD $680 |
| Residence Application | Principal Applicant | NZD $4,290+ |
| Partner Fee | Included Partner | NZD $2,150 |
| Dependent Child | Each child | NZD $1,610 |
| Medical Exam | Per person | ~NZD $400-600 |
| Police Certificate | Per country | Varies |
| Processing Time | After ITA | 6-12 Months |
Find answers to the most common questions about this visa category.
The Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) is New Zealand's main points-based residence visa for skilled workers. You need 6 points minimum, but invitations typically require higher scores.
Points are awarded for skilled employment in NZ (6 points required), qualifications, age, work experience outside NZ, and partner qualifications/employment.
Yes, you need either current skilled employment in NZ for at least 3 months, or a job offer in a skilled occupation from an accredited employer.
Skilled employment is determined by the qualification level required for the role, job substantial match to qualifications, and job paying at least the median wage ($31.61/hour).
Green List occupations have immediate residence pathways (Tier 1) or after 2 years work (Tier 2). Includes healthcare, engineering, construction, and other shortage roles.
Current processing times are 12-18 months after EOI selection. Aim to submit complete documentation to avoid delays.
You must be 55 years or under at the time of submitting EOI. Maximum age points are for applicants aged 20-39.
Minimum IELTS 6.5 overall (or equivalent) is required. Principal applicants from exempt countries (UK, US, Canada, Ireland, Australia) don't need to provide evidence.
Yes, partner and dependent children under 24 can be included. Partner's skills and employment can add points to your application.
First, submit EOI to the pool. If selected, you receive Invitation to Apply (ITA) and have 4 months to submit full residence application.
Our expert consultants will assess your eligibility, calculate your points, and guide you through the entire SMC application process.
Get Free Points Assessment
