Immigration & Visa

The Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) is one of New Zealand’s primary residence pathways, designed for applicants with skills and work experience that are in demand in New Zealand.

Following the October 2023 policy reform, the SMC was streamlined into a 6-Point System + Green List dual-track framework:

• 6-Point System: Applicants accumulate points through qualifications, work experience, salary, and professional registration. A total of 6 points qualifies them to submit a residence application.
• Green List: A list of shortage occupations in New Zealand. Applicants who meet the qualification and registration requirements can apply without needing to accumulate points, with the fastest route leading directly to residence.

From late August 2026, New Zealand’s skilled migration undergoes a major reform. While retaining the Green List and 6-Point System, the changes optimise salary and qualification rules, introduce an occupation risk list, and overall favour tradespeople, highly experienced professionals, and local graduates.