Streamlined Points System for Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa

On 9 October 2023, a new streamlined points system will be implemented for the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Resident Visa.

This updated approach offers a quicker path to residency for highly skilled individuals and a transparent route for others who work in Aotearoa, New Zealand, for a certain period. These modifications bring more clarity to migrants and employers regarding temporary and permanent work opportunities in New Zealand, enabling well-informed decisions.

The revamped SMC complements the Green List and Sector Agreement residence pathways, presenting distinct residency options based on job, qualification, or salary.

Under this new system, all SMC applicants must have a job offer or current employment in a role that pays at least:

• The median wage for occupations categorized at ANZSCO skill level 1-3, or
• 1.5 times the median wage for occupations categorized at ANZSCO skill level 4-5.

Furthermore, applicants need six points to apply, which can be obtained from:

• Three to six points based on New Zealand occupational registration, a recognized qualification or income; and
• One point per year of work in a New Zealand skilled job, up to a maximum of three points.

Age limit, English language proficiency, health, and character requirements for residency applications remain the same.

The Highly Paid Residence Visa will be merged into the SMC instead of being a separate category.

INZ aims to process straightforward SMC applications with all required information within six to eight weeks. There will be no limit on the number of people who can obtain residency if they meet the skills threshold.

Further details about the category changes will be shared as the launch date approaches.

Reference Link – Click here

Get in touch with Immigration Advisors New Zealand Ltd, which provides up-to-date immigration information so you can consider opportunities and prepare yourself for the future. To know all the required procedures, contact us at contact@nzimmigration.info or call on +64 09 3790219.