New Zealand•OceaniaSkilled Migrant Category (SMC) Resident Visa
At a Glance
Processing Time
180-360 days
Application Fee
4,290 NZD
Stay Duration
Indefinite
Renewable
Varies
Job Offer
Not Required
Dependents
Allowed
PR Pathway
Available
This visa can lead to permanent residency — the right to live and work here indefinitely without renewing your visa.Remote Work
Not Required
Overview
Points-based residence visa for skilled workers. Requires employment in skilled occupation at specified wage, qualification, and minimum points threshold. Direct path to permanent residency.
The Skilled Migrant Category is New Zealand's main pathway for skilled workers to gain permanent residence. It uses a points-based system assessing qualifications, work experience, and employment offer. Recent changes (August 2026) introduce new pathways with different work experience and qualification requirements.
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Requirements
Documentation
Applicant Documents
Educational qualifications
Degree certificates and transcripts
Work experience evidence
Employment letters and references
Employment contract
Job offer from NZ employer
Medical certificate
Health assessment
Police certificate
Good character from all countries lived 2+ years
English language proof
If applicable
OptionalTrack your documents or upload them for AI-powered review
Advantages
- Direct path to permanent residence
- Multiple qualification pathways available
- New pathways for specific experience levels
- Fast permanent residency after approval
Considerations
- Points-based selection competitive
- Requires job offer
- Age limit 55 years
- Long processing time
- Wage thresholds required
Application Process
Register with INZ
Create account and start expression of interest
Calculate points
Assess points using points table (need 6+ points)
Get job offer
From New Zealand employer
Submit full application
When your EOI is selected
Provide documents
Qualifications, work history, employment contract
Health and police checks
Medical and character assessment
Pay fee
NZD 4,290
Await decision
Usually 6-12 months
Application Forms
Skilled Migrant Category Application
Ready to Apply?
Check your eligibility first to see how well you match this visa