Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Resident Visa New Zealand
What Is the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa?
The SMC is New Zealand's flagship skilled migration residence visa. It grants permanent residence, letting you live, work and study in New Zealand indefinitely and eventually apply for citizenship. The current 6-point system replaced the old 180-point model in October 2023.

Need help with your NZ Work Visa?
IMMagine Immigration offers a range of immigration services, including assistance with work visa applications.
SMC Visa Points (Updated 2026)
Skill categories (pick one):
| Qualification (NZQF level) | Points |
|---|---|
| Level 10 — Doctoral degree | 6 |
| Level 9 — Master's degree | 5 |
| Level 8 — Bachelor Honours / Postgrad Dip or Cert | 4 |
| Level 7 — Bachelor's degree | 3 |
| Income (based on $35.00/hr median wage) | Points |
|---|---|
| 3× median wage — NZD $105.00/hr | 6 |
| 2× median wage — NZD $70.00/hr | 4 |
| 1.5× median wage — NZD $52.50/hr | 3 |
| NZ occupational registration (years of training required) | Points |
|---|---|
| 6+ years | 6 |
| 5 years | 5 |
| 4 years | 4 |
| 2 years | 3 |
Plus skilled work experience in New Zealand: 1 year = 1 point, 2 years = 2 points, 3 years = 3 points.
The SMC 6-Point System Explained
You need 6 points. You claim 3 to 6 points from ONE skill category
— qualification, registration, or income (you cannot mix categories)
— and top up with up to 3 points for skilled work experience in New Zealand (1 point per year).
Example: a Bachelor's degree (3 points) + 3 years of skilled NZ work (3 points) = 6 points. Overseas qualifications must be assessed by NZQA (an IQA) unless exempt.
SMC Eligibility Requirements
To qualify you must:
- Be 55 or younger
- Have a skilled job or job offer from an accredited employer — at least 30 hours/week, permanent or a 12+ month contract
- Have a role at ANZSCO skill level 1–3 paid at or above the median wage, or level 4–5 paid at 1.5× the median wage
- Reach 6 skilled resident points
- Meet English language requirements
- Meet health (medical waivers may apply) and character standards (police certificates required)

Need help with your NZ Work Visa?
IMMagine Immigration offers a range of immigration services, including assistance with work visa applications.
SMC Costs & Processing
- Cost: from approximately NZD $6,450, including the migrant levy (varies by family size — confirm current fees before applying)
- Processing: times vary by application volume and complexity; complete, well-evidenced applications move fastest
Because fees are non-refundable and the bar is now precise, preparation matters — see the top 10 reasons NZ visas are declined.
Changes Coming 24 August 2026
Immigration New Zealand has confirmed significant SMC reforms from 24 August 2026:
- Two new residence pathways:
- Skilled Work Experience pathway — for ANZSCO level 1–3 roles, with at least 5 years of directly relevant experience including 2 years in New Zealand at 1.1× the median wage
- Trades and Technician pathway — for specified trades/technician roles with a Level 4+ qualification and at least 4 years' post-qualification experience, including 18 months in NZ at or above the median wage
- Skilled Work Experience pathway — for ANZSCO level 1–3 roles, with at least 5 years of directly relevant experience including 2 years in New Zealand at 1.1× the median wage
- Reduced NZ work experience — the maximum needed drops from 3 years to 2 years for most pathways
- More points for New Zealand qualifications than overseas ones, helping local graduates
- Red and amber lists that determine which roles can use the new pathways
- Simplified wage rules — maintain the required median wage through your experience period rather than proving a higher wage at application
- A new recognised occupational registration for accountants, and extended English test validity
These changes could materially shift your best pathway.
The SMC Application Process
- Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) showing you meet 6 points
- Receive an Invitation to Apply if selected
- Submit your residence application with evidence — job offer, qualification/NZQA assessment, English results, police and medical certificates
Many applicants enter the SMC after time on an AEWV or via Work to Residence. See all residence pathways for skilled migrants.

Need help with your NZ Work Visa?
IMMagine Immigration offers a range of immigration services, including assistance with work visa applications.
Step by Step
Our Process

1. Free Eligibility Check
Complete our short questionnaire and attach your resume (or provide a summary of qualifications and work experience).
Within 48 working hours, we will provide a free written assessment of Visa options.

2. Online Consultation
Book a 75–90 minute paid online consultation to explore your visa options and get answers to all your questions.

3. Visa Application
Once you decide to proceed, we will handle the preparation and processing of your visa application.
FAQs
Browse our FAQs for Answers
Need Help With Your NZ Work Visa?
IMMagine Immigration offers a range of immigration services, including assistance with NZ work visas. Contact us today!


