Residence & citizenship
New Zealand Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa
New Zealand's points-based skilled residence route requires 6 points from qualifications, occupational registration or income, plus skilled work, for migrants seeking to settle here permanently.
Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
Under review — check current rules
The points model and pay rates change on 24 August 2026; confirm the current points table and pay thresholds on the INZ SMC pages.
Important information
Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official New Zealand government website before you apply.
- Official name
- Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa
- Route type
- Points-based skilled resident visa
- Points needed
- 6 skilled resident points
- Points sources
- 3-6 points from registration/qualification/income, plus up to 3 for NZ skilled work
Who it is for
- Skilled workers with a job or job offer from an accredited employer
- Migrants who can reach 6 points from qualifications, occupational registration or income
Requirements
- Claim a total of 6 skilled resident points
- 3-6 points from occupational registration, a recognised qualification, or income
- Up to 3 further points for skilled work in New Zealand (e.g. 1 point per year on a work visa)
- Meet pay-rate, English, health and character requirements
What you can do
- Gain New Zealand residence based on your skills
- Live, work and study in New Zealand indefinitely
- Progress to a Permanent Resident Visa
How to apply
- Submit an expression of interest showing you can claim 6 points
- If selected, submit the full residence application with evidence
- Note the category changes taking effect 24 August 2026
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.
Related New Zealand visas
- SETTLEMENTPERMANENTPermanent Resident VisaFor existing resident visa holders, this unconditional residence route lets you live in and travel to and from New Zealand indefinitely, free of the usual travel conditions.View visa details
- SETTLEMENTCITIZENSHIPNew Zealand Citizenship by GrantFor residents who have lived in New Zealand long enough, this route grants full citizenship once you meet the required presence, character and language requirements.View visa details