Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa

Who this pathway suits

The 6-point Skilled Migrant Category offers an unambiguous, merit-based route to permanent residency in Aotearoa New Zealand.Unlike the older 180-point ranking pool, there is no lottery or ranking competition. If you achieve 6 verified points and hold a skilled job or job offer with an accredited employer paying at or above the median wage, your residence application is processed directly.Points can be claimed from one primary skill skill factor: New Zealand professional registration (up to 6 points), recognized educational qualifications (Bachelor's = 3, Master's = 5, Doctorate = 6), or high income (1.5x to 3x median wage = 3 to 6 points). You can add up to 3 points for skilled work experience inside New Zealand.

Eligibility at a glance

• Under 56 years of age at application lodgement
• Current skilled job or job offer from an Immigration New Zealand Accredited Employer (minimum 30 hours/week, permanent or 12+ month contract)
• Paid at or above the New Zealand median wage (or 1.5x median wage for ANZSCO skill level 4-5 roles)
• Claim at least 6 points across recognized registration, qualification, income, and NZ skilled work experience
• English language competence: IELTS Academic/General 6.5, PTE 58, or exempt nationality/study
• Meet health and character requirements (medical certificates and police clearances)

How the process works

1. Assess 6 Points & Accreditation — Calculate your 6 points and ensure your prospective employer holds active INZ accreditation.
2. NZQA & Registration Verification — Complete NZQA assessment for foreign degrees or secure New Zealand professional registration.
3. Submit Online EOI — Lodge Expression of Interest via Immigration New Zealand portal.
4. Invitation to Apply (ITA) — Once 6 points are verified, an official ITA is issued.
5. Lodge Resident Visa Application — Upload full documentary evidence and fee payment within 4 months.
6. Visa Grant — Receive New Zealand Resident Visa with initial 2-year travel conditions.

Documents you will typically need

• Valid passport for all applicants
• Full employment agreement and job description from Accredited Employer
• Employer declaration form confirming median wage compliance
• NZQA International Qualification Assessment (IQA) or qualification certificates
• Occupational registration certificate from New Zealand regulatory board (if claiming registration points)
• Inland Revenue (IRD) tax summaries and payslips (for NZ work experience)
• English language test report (less than 2 years old)

Frequently asked questions