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Skilled Migrant Category Residence Visa
The Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Residence Visa lets skilled professionals live, work and study in New Zealand indefinitely, provided they meet the skills threshold and hold (or have) a skilled job or job offer with an accredited employer
It is suitable for individuals who:​
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Aged 55 or under.
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Have an offer of, or be working in, a full-time ( at least 30 hourse per week) skilled job with an accredited employer.
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Have 6 skilled resident points form yoru skills and work in New Zealand.
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Speak and understand English. You may be exempt if you hold a degree from certain English-speaking countries.
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Are in good health, verified through a medical examination.
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Are of good character, supported by police certificates.
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Have a genuine reason for working and living in New Zealand.
Eligibility Requirements
1.Skilled job / job offer
A “skilled job” is typically:
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With an accredited employer
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30+ hours per week (permanent, fixed-term 12+ months, or continuous contracts 6+ months)
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Paid at or above the required wage threshold for the role
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Note: For some lower ANZSCO skill-level roles, a higher wage threshold applies.
2. Age, English, Health & Character
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Age: 55 or under
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English: Must be able to speak and understand English
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Health & Character: Standard medical and police checks apply
3.Points Threshold (6 points minimum)
You must reach 6 points using the A / B / C + D structure below.
Processing Times
Timeframes vary based on caseload and the completeness/quality of your documents. Well-organised evidence (employment, points proof, registration, IQA, wage calculations) helps avoid delays
Key Features
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Indefinite residence in New Zealand (pathway to Permanent Resident Visa after 2 years, subject to conditions).
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Partner and dependent children (≤24 years) can be included if they meet requirements.
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No points for the job/offer itself — points come from A/B/C + D.
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Possible section 49 conditions may apply to some approvals (e.g., need to remain in skilled employment for a period).