New Zealand's Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) is the main pathway to permanent residency for skilled workers. This guide covers everything you need to know.
Overview
The SMC is a points-based system that selects skilled migrants who can contribute to New Zealand's economy. You need at least 160 points to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI).
Points System
Skilled Employment (50-60 points)
Current Skilled Employment in NZ:
- Skill level 1-3 job: 50 points
- In absolute skills shortage: +10 points
Qualifications (40-70 points)
- Level 10 doctorate: 70 points
- Level 9 master's: 65 points
- Level 8 honours or postgraduate diploma: 60 points
- Level 7 bachelor's degree: 50 points
- Level 4-6 post-school qualification: 40 points
Age (20-30 points)
- 20-39 years: 30 points
- 40-44 years: 20 points
- 45-55 years: 10 points
Bonus Points
- Partner qualification: 10-20 points
- NZ work experience (2-5 years): 10-15 points
- NZ qualification: 10-15 points
- Close family in NZ: 10 points
- Job outside Auckland: 30 points
Eligibility Requirements
- Age: Under 55 years
- Health: Meet health requirements
- Character: Good character requirements
- English: IELTS 6.5 average (or equivalent)
- Skilled Employment: Job offer in skill level 1-3 OR
- Qualifications: Recognized qualification
Application Process
Step 1: Expression of Interest (EOI)
- Submit EOI through online system
- Costs NZD $680
- Includes points calculation
- Valid for 6 months
Step 2: Selection from Pool
- EOIs ranked by points
- Regular selection draws
- 160+ points competitive
- Higher points = better chance
Step 3: Invitation to Apply (ITA)
- If selected, receive ITA
- Have 4 months to submit application
- Must maintain points claimed
Step 4: Residence Application
- Submit full application
- Cost: NZD $3,835 main applicant
- Provide all supporting documents
- Medical and police certificates
Step 5: Decision
- Processing time: 6-12 months
- May request additional information
- Residence granted if approved
Job Search Visa
If you don't have job offer:
- Work to Residence pathway
- Essential Skills work visa first
- Gain NZ work experience
- Then apply for SMC
Priority Occupations
Check Immigration New Zealand's:
- Long Term Skill Shortage List
- Green List (fast-tracked residency)
- Regional Skill Shortage Lists
Costs and Timeline (2025 Updated)
Total Costs:
- EOI submission: NZD $770 (increased 2024)
- Residence application: NZD $4,290 (main applicant)
- Partner (if applicable): NZD $2,145
- Dependent children: NZD $1,073 each
- IELTS/PTE: NZD $385-$450
- Medical examinations: NZD $400-$650 per person
- Police certificates: NZD $100-$300 per country
- Skills assessment (if required): varies
- Total estimated: NZD $6,500-$8,500 for single applicant
Timeline (2025 Average):
- Skills assessment: 6-12 weeks (if required)
- EOI to selection: 2-8 months (depends on points and occupation)
- Invitation to apply: immediate upon selection
- Application processing: 10-16 months (current average)
- Total: 12-24 months from start to residence grant
Faster Processing:
- Green List Tier 1: 4-6 months (straight to residence)
- Green List Tier 2: Work visa in 3-4 months, then residence after 24 months
Tips for Success (2025 Strategies)
- Maximize Points: Aim for 180-200+ points for competitive selection
- Check Green List First: If your occupation is on Green List, use AEWV pathway instead
- Job Offer Priority: Skilled employment in NZ worth 50-60 points; actively job hunt before applying
- Regional Advantage: 30 bonus points for jobs outside Auckland - consider Wellington, Christchurch, Queenstown
- Partner Points: Skilled partner can add 10-20 points
- NZ Qualifications: 2+ years NZ study adds 10-15 points
- Age Strategy: Apply between 20-39 for maximum 30 age points
- Occupation Demand: Monitor skill shortage lists; some occupations have guaranteed selection
- Accredited Employer: Working for accredited employer provides advantages
- English Proficiency: Ensure IELTS 6.5 minimum; higher scores strengthen application
Recent Changes (2025 Update)
- Points threshold remains at 160 (increased November 2023)
- Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) system fully implemented
- Green List expanded with additional occupations in healthcare and construction
- Straight to Residence pathway for Green List Tier 1 occupations
- Work to Residence pathway for Green List Tier 2 occupations
- Regional bonuses increased to 30 points (outside Auckland)
- Partner bonus points enhanced (up to 20 points for skilled partner)
- Median wage threshold increased to NZD $31.61 per hour (February 2025)
Check your eligibility and calculate your exact points with our free New Zealand assessment tool.
