The Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Resident Visa provides a pathway for skilled workers who want to live, work and settle permanently in New Zealand.

From 24 August 2026, the Skilled Migrant Category includes three main pathways:

• Points-based pathway

• Skilled Work Experience pathway

• Trades and Technician pathway

Eligibility depends on the pathway you apply under. Applicants may need to meet requirements relating to skilled employment or a skilled job offer in New Zealand, qualifications, occupational registration, income and relevant work experience.

Under the Points-based pathway, applicants generally need to obtain 6 skilled resident points through recognised qualifications, occupational registration, income and eligible skilled work experience in New Zealand.

The Skilled Work Experience pathway is available to eligible workers in skilled occupations who have the required directly relevant work experience, including qualifying employment in New Zealand.

The Trades and Technician pathway provides an additional residence option for workers in specified trade and technician occupations who meet the relevant qualification, work experience and New Zealand employment requirements.

Applicants must also satisfy Immigration New Zealand’s requirements relating to English language ability, age, health and character.

Successful applicants receive a New Zealand Resident Visa, allowing them to live, work and study in New Zealand indefinitely. Eligible residents may later apply for a Permanent Resident Visa.