Resident Visa NZ - SMC (Skilled Migrant Category)

What is the Skilled Migrant Category?

The Skilled Migrant Category is a residence visa pathway for people with qualifications, work experience, and skills that are in demand in New Zealand.

It’s based on a points system, where your eligibility is calculated using factors like:

• Your job or job offer in New Zealand
• Your qualifications
• Your work experience
• Your income level
• Whether your occupation is on the Green List
• And other relevant factors

If you meet the minimum threshold (currently set at 6 points), you may be able to apply for residence under this category.

This visa allows you to live, work, and study in New Zealand permanently, and it also opens the door to bring your partner and dependent children with you.

Who is this visa for?

This visa is ideal for people who:

• Have a skilled job offer in New Zealand from an INZ accredited employer
• Are working in a skilled occupation
• Have strong English language skills
• Are generally in good health and of good character
• Want to settle in New Zealand permanently, not just temporarily

Most successful applicants are already living and working in New Zealand on a temporary visa — but offshore applicants can also apply if they meet all criteria and have a valid job offer.

The new points-based system (2023 update)

In October 2023, Immigration New Zealand introduced a simplified points system for the Skilled Migrant Category. The goal was to make the process clearer, more predictable, and better aligned with New Zealand’s labour market needs.

Under the new system, you need at least 6 points to be eligible to apply.

What are the benefits of this visa?

• Permanent residence – live, work, and study in New Zealand indefinitely
• Pathway to citizenship – after you meet the time and presence requirements
• Family inclusion – your partner and dependent children can be included in the same application
• Job flexibility – once granted, you’re not tied to any specific employer or role
• Access to public services – including education and healthcare as a resident

English language requirements

All adult applicants (18 and over) must meet a minimum standard of English, usually shown through:

• IELTS (overall score of 6.5 or higher)
• PTE Academic (score of 58 or more)
• TOEFL or Cambridge English qualifications
• Holding a qualification from a New Zealand or approved English-speaking institution

Partners and older children must also demonstrate a basic level of English or pre-purchase English language tuition through Immigration New Zealand.

What documents do you need?

A strong application will typically include:

• A copy of your employment agreement
• Evidence your employer is accredited
• Proof of your qualifications
• Documents showing your work experience
• Proof of English language ability, if applicable
• Police certificates and medical checks for health and character, if applicable

Remember, it’s not just about submitting documents. It’s about showing how all the pieces fit together: your qualifications, job, experience, and value to New Zealand.

Common mistakes applicants make

• Assuming your job title is enough, Immigration looks at your actual job tasks, not just the title
• Rushing to apply without 6 points – Applications that don’t meet the threshold are declined automatically
• Submitting poor or vague documentation – This delays processing or results in a PPI letter
• Ignoring registration requirements – Some jobs need licensing (nurses, teachers, electricians)
• Underestimating processing time – SMC applications are complex and require a full review

Does this visa application guarantee approval?

No, even if you meet the 6-point minimum, Immigration New Zealand still needs to:

• Verify your documents
• Assess your health and character
• Confirm your job and qualifications are genuine
• Ensure your case aligns with New Zealand’s immigration policy

Having a skilled job doesn’t mean automatic approval, the quality of your application matters just as much.

Why choose Visa Matters?

We’ve helped professionals across industries, from IT specialists to nurses, engineers to educators, secure residence through the Skilled Migrant Category.

At Visa Matters, we:

• Check whether you meet the 6-point threshold
• Help position your qualifications and experience the right way
• Work directly with your employer to ensure correct documents
• Prepare a clear, well-presented application that meets policy
• Anticipate issues like registration, wage thresholds, or policy changes

This visa is competitive — and timing is everything. If your current visa is running out, or your job offer is time-limited, getting expert help can make all the difference.

Final thoughts

The Skilled Migrant Category is New Zealand’s flagship residence pathway for qualified professionals. It’s designed for people who want to put down roots and contribute long term, not just fill a short-term labour gap.

But while the system is more streamlined than it used to be, it still demands a high level of detail, planning, and accuracy. Meeting the points threshold is only the beginning. Presenting your case properly with the right documents, timing, and policy alignment is what ultimately determines success.

If you’re thinking about making New Zealand your long-term home, the Skilled Migrant Category could be your bridge. And if you’d like guidance, our team is here to help.