New Zealand Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa
New Zealand NZL
Last verified 2025-01-01Official source
New Zealand's Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Resident Visa is a points-based residence pathway for skilled workers with a job offer or skilled employment in New Zealand. The system uses an Expression of Interest (EOI) process where candidates are ranked and those above a selected points threshold are invited to apply for residence. Citizenship may be applied for after five years of residence, and New Zealand permits dual citizenship.
Program Details
- Category
- Skilled Worker
- Processing Time
- 9 months
- Application Fee
- $400
- Minimum Income
- N/A
- Minimum Investment
- N/A
- Family Included
- Partner and dependent children under 24 are included in the residence application
- Path to PR
- Yes — 0 years
- Path to Citizenship
- Yes — 5 years
- Physical Presence
- Must be present in New Zealand at the time of residence grant; must reside in NZ to maintain resident visa travel conditions
- Dual Citizenship
- Allowed
- Tax Impact
- New Zealand residents are taxed on worldwide income; a transitional tax exemption on foreign income may apply for the first four years of residency
No minimum income threshold, but job offer and skilled employment are central to points score; minimum NZD$29.66/hour wage floor applies
Key Requirements
- ✓Expression of Interest (EOI) lodged with Immigration New Zealand and selected in a ballot
- ✓Points score based on age, skilled employment, work experience, qualifications, and partner qualifications
- ✓Skilled job offer in New Zealand, or current skilled employment in New Zealand
- ✓Minimum wage of NZD$29.66 per hour (or higher for some roles) from a New Zealand employer
- ✓Meet health and character requirements
- ✓Under 56 years of age
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