Migration Overseas
Back to New Zealand
New Zealand's points-based skilled migration program for professionals. Score 180+ points and secure your PR with full work and living rights in Aotearoa.
You need 180 points to qualify. Here's how points are calculated based on your profile.
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 180 points on the SMC points system combining employment, experience, qualifications, and age.
The Skilled Migrant Category offers a direct pathway to permanent residence and citizenship.
Live and work in New Zealand indefinitely. No need to renew visa. Full resident rights from day one.
Partner and dependent children can be included in your application. All receive resident visas together.
Eligible to apply for NZ citizenship after 5 years of residence. One of the world's most powerful passports.
Access to free or subsidized education for children at public schools and domestic fees at universities.
Access to public healthcare system. Subsidized doctor visits and hospital treatment as a resident.
NZ citizens can live and work in Australia under the Trans-Tasman agreement. No visa required.
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)
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 180-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!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 AssessmentReady to explore your immigration options? Our expert team in Vadodara is here to guide you every step of the way. Get a free eligibility assessment and take the first step towards your dream destination.
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