Work & Stay
Skilled Migrant Category
The Skilled Migrant Category is the main route from skilled work in New Zealand to permanent residence. Immigration New Zealand overhauled it in 2026, and it now runs on a 6-point threshold across three different pathways, so the right one for you depends on your qualifications and work experience, not just your job title.
Immigration rules change, always confirm before you rely on this
Visa categories, eligibility, points, and wage thresholds are set by Immigration New Zealand and can change with little notice. The details on this page were checked against official Immigration New Zealand sources in September 2026, but always confirm current requirements at immigration.govt.nz or with our team before making a decision.
Recently changed
As of 24 August 2026, the Skilled Migrant Category was restructured around three pathways (Points-Based, Skilled Work Experience, and Trades & Technician) with a single 6-point threshold, replacing the older points system. Wage thresholds were also updated on 9 March 2026 and now sit at NZD $35.00 an hour for ANZSCO skill levels 1–3, rising to $52.50 or more depending on your pathway and points claimed.
Key facts
- You must be 55 or younger when you apply, in good health and character
- A 6-point minimum threshold applies across all three pathways
- Points-Based pathway: points from qualifications, occupational registration, income, and skilled NZ work experience
- Skilled Work Experience pathway: 3 years of relevant ANZSCO skill level 1–3 experience, plus 2 years skilled NZ experience
- Trades & Technician pathway: 2.5 years of relevant post-qualification experience, plus 1.5 years skilled NZ experience
- Once your wage threshold is set, it doesn't change, even if the median wage rises later
How it works
We map your pathway
We compare your qualifications, registration, income, and work experience against all three SMC pathways to find which one you qualify for, and how many points you're on track for.
Submit an Expression of Interest
There's no fee for this step. If you're eligible, Immigration New Zealand issues an invitation to apply.
We prepare your full application
You have 4 months to lodge a complete application after an invitation, so we get your documents ready in advance to avoid the deadline becoming a problem.
Common questions
Which SMC pathway is right for me?
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It depends on your qualification level, income, and how much of your work experience was gained in New Zealand versus overseas. We map your specific background against all three pathways before you commit to one.
Do wage thresholds change after I've started counting my work experience?
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No. Once your threshold is set based on when you started accruing skilled work experience, it stays fixed, even if Immigration New Zealand raises the median wage before you apply for residence.
Visa categories, eligibility, points, and wage thresholds are set by Immigration New Zealand and can change with little notice. The details on this page were checked against official Immigration New Zealand sources in September 2026, but always confirm current requirements at immigration.govt.nz or with our team before making a decision.
Not sure which pathway fits you?
Book a free consultation and we'll map out which pathway matches your qualification, occupation, and timeline.
Book a free consultation