Do you possess skills that could benefit New Zealand? Are you looking to relocate to New Zealand permanently? We have the expertise to help you navigate the complex requirements of the Skilled Migrant Resident visa category to help you achieve your goals.
How the Points System works for NZ Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa
The NZ skilled migrant category is a points-based system where you must meet the required points requirement to be eligible to apply. You will need a total of 6 points to apply.
You can only claim points from two options. You can claim 3 to 6 points from ONE of the below:
- Occupational registration, licensing or certification
- Qualification (Bachelor’s degree or higher)
- Income from your job or job offer
AND a further 1-3 points can be claimed for skilled work experience in New Zealand – 1 point for each year in NZ.
General Requirements
- The principal applicant must be 55 years or younger when the application has been submitted.
- You must have a job, or a job offer in New Zealand with an accredited employer to apply.
- You can include your partner, and dependent children aged 24 and under, in your residence application.
- You must meet Immigration New Zealand’s character and medical requirements.
- You may be required to provide an acceptable English Language test. Partners and children can also choose to enrol in an English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) course.
- Your job or job offer must be paid at a median wage or above ($33.56 NZD an hour) unless a wage threshold applies.
- If you are claiming points for work experience, you will also need to meet the relevant wage threshold that was in place at the time you began working.
Pathway to Permanent Residence
This visa gives you the right to live, work, and study in New Zealand. After holding the visa for 2 years you may become eligible to apply for a Permanent Resident.
Thinking about making New Zealand your home?
Immigration rules can feel complicated, but that’s where we come in. Our experienced team is skilled at handling even the most complex requirements, so you don’t have to feel overwhelmed. We’ll take the time to understand your unique situation, answer all your questions, and give you clear, personalised guidance from start to finish.
We’d love to help you get there. Contact us today to talk through your options and start the journey toward residence.
FAQs
Do I need to have a job to apply for a skilled migrant visa?
Yes, you must have a job or a job offer in New Zealand to apply. Your employment must be with an accredited employer and either full-time and permanent, for a fixed term of at least 12 months or a contract for services of at least 6 months.
How do I gain points for my income?
Income points are based on the median wage, which is reviewed and adjusted yearly. It’s important to note that changes in the median wage could affect the points you are eligible for. For example, you might meet the requirements for a certain number of points in one year, but an increase in the median wage the following year could mean you would lose points. To avoid this, it’s advisable to apply as soon as you are eligible to ensure that potential changes won’t affect your application. Points are awarded for 1.5x, 2x, and 3x the median wage.
My current visa is expiring can I continue to stay in New Zealand while my residence is being processed?
If you have applied for a Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa and you have not applied for another type of temporary visa, Immigration New Zealand will process a Skilled Migrant Category Interim Visa for you. It will come into effect the day after your current visa expires. You do not need to apply as it is an automated system.
Is English required for a Skilled Migrant visa?
Applicants must prove a certain level of English proficiency, which can be demonstrated through your country of citizenship or by taking an approved English language test. Secondary applicants will also need to meet the English requirements, although the levels are set lower for them.
