eVisas
Login

Skilled Migrant Category Residency in New Zealand

New Zealand Skilled Migrant Category Residency is designed for highly skilled professionals who can contribute to the country's economy and workforce. This residency option operates on a points-based system, where applicants earn points based on factors such as age, qualifications, work experience, and a job offer in New Zealand. Unlike other residency pathways, the Skilled Migrant Category offers flexibility for individuals in various industries, making it a popular choice for professionals looking to establish long-term roots in New Zealand.

Here's what you need to know about the Skilled Migrant Category Residency in New Zealand:

Key Benefits

  • A points-based system offers flexibility in meeting residency criteria.

  • Ideal for skilled professionals with relevant job offers and experience.

  • Path to permanent residency after meeting residency requirements.

Key Requirements

  • Must have a full-time skilled job offer (30+ hours/week).

  • Must score at least 6 points based on job offer, experience, qualifications, and salary.

  • Must earn at least NZD$31.61 per hour or higher.

Talk to our Experts to Know More

Talk to our Experts to Know More

Why Choose the Skilled Migrant Category Residency in New Zealand?

The Skilled Migrant Category Residency offers a unique opportunity for skilled professionals to build a secure and prosperous future in New Zealand. Here are some key benefits of choosing this residency program:

Pathway to Permanent Residency

Once approved, you can live and work in New Zealand indefinitely, with the opportunity to apply for Permanent Residency after meeting the requirements.

Flexibility Across Industries

Unlike occupation-specific residency pathways, this category allows skilled professionals from a wide range of industries to apply.

No Employer Sponsorship Required

While a job offer can boost your points, you don't necessarily need an accredited employer to qualify, offering more flexibility in your career choices.

Access to Public Services

Residents can benefit from New Zealand's public healthcare and education system, as well as other social services.

Family Inclusion

You can include your partner and dependent children in your residency application, allowing them to enjoy the same rights and benefits.

Pathway to Citizenship

After holding residency for a certain period, you can apply for New Zealand citizenship, gaining access to one of the world's most desirable passports.

Requirements for Skilled Migrant Category Residency in New Zealand

To be eligible for Skilled Migrant Catagory Residency in New Zealand, applicants must have the following requirements:

  • Full-time skilled job offer (30+ hours per week).

  • Must be 55 years old or younger.

  • Must score at least 6 points on the points system (based on job offer, experience, qualifications, and salary).

  • Must earn at least the median wage or higher.

  • If claiming points for experience, it must be relevant to your occupation.

  • Standard health and character requirements apply.

  • Proof of English may be required (IELTS, PTE, etc.).

  • Applicants must earn at least NZD$31.61 per hour.

Start your New Zealand Residency Eligibility Check

Start your New Zealand Residency Eligibility Check

The Process of Applying for Skilled Migrant Category Residency in New Zealand

  • Ensure you meet the minimum points requirement based on factors like age, qualifications, work experience, and a job offer in New Zealand.

  • Lodge an Expression of Interest (EOI) with Immigration New Zealand, detailing your skills, experience, and other eligibility criteria.

  • If your EOI meets the required points threshold, you may receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for residency.

  • Gather and submit supporting documents, including proof of employment, qualifications, English proficiency, and health and character certificates to us.

  • Immigration New Zealand reviews your application, which may involve requests for additional information or verification of documents.

  • If approved, you will be granted a resident visa, allowing you to live and work in New Zealand permanently.

Apply for Skilled Migrant Category Residency in New Zealand

Apply for Skilled Migrant Category Residency in New Zealand

Migration Highlights

Category
Details
Minimum Investment/Earning - Straight to Residency
Minimum Income: NZD$31.61 per hour.
Minimum Investment/Earning - Skilled Migrant Residency
Minimum Income: NZD$31.61 per hour.
Minimum Investment/Earning - New Zealand Active Investor Plus Residency
Investment Amount: Invest between NZD 5 million and NZD 15 million over four years.
Property Requirement
No general property purchase requirement.
Processing Time
6 to 12 months for most residency applications.
Family Inclusion Option
Spouses and dependent children can be included in applications.
Required Residency Duration for Citizenship
5 years as a resident with at least 240 days per year in NZ.

Facts About New Zealand

Fact
Details
Population
Approximately 5.4 million (2025 estimate).
Location
Oceania. An island nation in the South Pacific Ocean, southeast of Australia.
Passport Rank
7th globally (Henley Passport Index 2025).
Passport Mobility
Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 190+ destinations.
Language
English (primary language) and Māori (official language).
National Food
Hāngī (a traditional Māori slow-cooked meal) and Pavlova (a popular meringue-based dessert).

Frequently Asked Questions

A job offer is not always required, but having one can significantly increase your points and improve your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA).

Ready to Move to New Zealand? Check Your Eligibility Now!

Eligibility Check

Download eVisas mobile app

Stay updated and submit applications seamlessly on our iOS and Android apps.